In 5th grade, students learn the important responsibility of belaying one another on the vertical climbing wall. Once each student demonstrates competency in putting on a harness, effective communication between climber and belayer, and rope belaying technique, students are then asked to act as leaders and mentors by belaying children in the younger grades. This is an incredible opportunity for students to learn trust and leadership.
Recently, the 5th graders were asked to belay the kindergarten students. They took this role of leadership and mentorship very seriously and many of the K kids met climbing success on the vertical wall. This level of community building within our school allows several of our school values to be practiced. Perseverance, respect, responsibility, courage, and acceptance of others truly shine in this activity.