Anchor Experiences

Some of the most impactful lessons happen outside the classroom.

At St. Paul's, students participate in embedded programs like service projects, chapel, and class trips to help them become effective leaders and engaged citizens.

Kindergarten - 4th grade students take part in local field trips every year that introduce them to some of Kansas City's most prominent institutions. Whether it's visiting the Kauffman Center for the Nutcracker ballet, a trip to Union Station's Science City, or walking over to see the special exhibit at the Nelson Atkins Museum of Art, St. Paul's students are continuously exploring the best their city has to offer. Opportunities like this reinforce the importance of culture, citizenship, and community for our growing learners.

5th - 8th grade students travel beyond the Kansas City metro to explore the beauty of nature, unplug from technology, and even see local government in action. Click on the tabs below to learn more about our middle school anchor experiences.

8th grade students on a boat in Florida.

8th Grade students travel to Key Largo, Florida for the final St. Paul's anchor trip! Students conduct experiments at Marine Lab, snorkeled while searching for marine debris, explore the reef, and had some boating fun. They also share a few beachside chapels together.

5th grade students stop for a scenic picture on a hike in the Ozark Mountains.

5th grade students travel to the YMCA of the Ozarks for their first Anchor Trip! They enjoy fun outdoor activities like climbing challenges, archery, mini golf, campfires, hiking, sand volleyball, and some barn dancing.

Students work on a shelter in the woods.

7th grade travels to the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, Colorado for their anchor trip. Students build shelters in the forest, explore wildlife and ecology, complete team-building activities, and make some memories around the campfire. It's a great opportunity for students to unwind and unplug with friends.

6th grade students on a canoe below the St. Louis Arch.

6th grade students travel to to St. Louis, and they enjoy canoeing, paddle-boating, exploring the Arch Museum, and the Science Center. They also squeeze in a team-building activities! 

Students pose in front of some steps in Madrid, Spain.

8th grade students have the opportunity to travel to Madrid, Spain for a two-and-half week trip as part of an exchange program with our partner school. While abroad, students visit historic sites, eat delicious food, and immerse themselves in Spanish culture. Some of the best experiences are spending time with their generous host families!

7th grade students pose with some empanadas they made at the Spanish program in Concordia Villages.

7th grade students can choose to go on the optional 3-day trip to Spanish program in the Concordia Villages. While in Minnesota, students speak exclusively Spanish with each other and teachers. They participate in cultural activities, research Hispanic influence in the USA, play games, and make delicious food.