8legs: St. benedict's preparatory school

#1 out of 1

Why a 55-mile Appalachian Trail trek is a mandatory rite of passage for these New Jersey freshmen

St. Benedict's Preparatory School in Newark requires all freshmen to complete a five-day, 55-mile Appalachian Trail hike with limited supervision.
The trek is a 53-year tradition at St. Benedict's, conducted in all weather, with rain preferred by administrators for its lessons.
Administrators say the program teaches students to rely on one another and handle difficult situations without helicopter support.
The school describes the hike as a rite of passage that culminates in sophomore status after five days of ups and downs.
The program assigns roles such as captains, camp specialists, navigators, cooks, and medics to each student.
The initiative is framed as a test of independence amid a broader national conversation about parenting styles.
The hike includes training in spring and is described as a five-day trek along the Appalachian Trail near Newark, New Jersey.
The program is the subject of CBS News coverage highlighting the school’s approach to character building.
St. Benedict's officials emphasize resilience and teamwork as core outcomes of the trek.
The tradition has endured for more than five decades, with administrators noting its enduring place in the school's culture.

Vote 0