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Charting New Waters: Courage, Curiosity, and Community on Grade 6's Retreat to Catalina Island

By Cary Rabinowitz
Every journey begins with a single step, but sometimes that step leads you onto a rocky ferry ride across the Pacific with 44 Grade 6 peers and a handful of adventurous teachers, into an experience that changes the way you see yourself and the people around you.

This year’s Grade 6 trip to the Catalina Island Marine Institute (CIMI) was a chance for our students to dive headfirst into “the splendor of beauty,” and to experience “the glory of action” as we state during each morning’s Salutation of the Dawn.  It was an opportunity for our students to discover courage and curiosity in ways that only happen when we step outside the familiar.
From snorkeling in the clear waters of Toyon Bay to climbing rock walls, the trip provided countless opportunities for students to take on challenges and uncover new strengths. It was rewarding to watch them persevere with tricky wetsuits, cheer each other on while jumping into the Bay from the floating dock, and even find humor in “long division,” which became a beloved inside joke. Grade 6 student  Olivia L. reflected, “The most challenging part was putting on the wetsuit…but I asked a friend to help and I did it in the end.” These moments of persistence, support, and joy made each day memorable.

What stood out most was the way students built deeper connections with one another and their teachers. Whether learning side by side during marine science lessons, encouraging each other during evening programs, or sharing quiet moments together, the class grew closer as a community. Ben C. noted, “This helped me bond with my friends and learn about their daily lives.” These experiences remind us of the value of time spent outside the classroom in shaping stronger friendships and a stronger School community.

Catalina also allowed students to grow as individuals. Many reflected that they returned feeling more confident, more independent, and more prepared to face challenges. As one student shared, “This trip helped me overcome obstacles and be kind towards my peers.” This adventure was a single step in a much greater journey in helping our students see themselves as capable explorers, compassionate friends, and curious learners ready for the path ahead. 

A special thank you to the dedicated faculty that gave their time and energy to guide students throughout the three-day overnight adventure, and for the trust and confidence of our families in supporting such an opportunity. Catalina is a long-standing tradition at The John Thomas Dye School, and each year it reaffirms the joy of discovery and the promise of growth that define the JTD experience.

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The John Thomas Dye School


11414 Chalon Road
Los Angeles, CA 90049
Phone: (310) 476-2811
The John Thomas Dye School admits students of any race, color, religion, sexual orientation, or national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the School. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, or national and ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic or other school-administered programs.

Located In Los Angeles, CA, John Thomas Dye is an independent school for grades K-6. Students benefit from a challenging academic program, fine arts, competitive athletics, and a wide selection of extracurricular activities.