What is Powder Term’s learning philosophy and educational model?

Powder Term focuses on three primary areas of mastery (self/physical/academic) – that path is built with new habits of health (both physical and mental), learning new ways of self-direction, time-management, project execution, leveraging adaptive learning platforms, and gaining new leadership skills. In order to begin a journey of mastery in these areas Powder Term uses adaptive learning platforms, physical training, and cross-discipline projects. 

Powder Term has developed its own curriculum that’s based upon Socratic-style learning. We include core skill educational tools like Khan Academy, Lexia, No Red Ink, as well as our own project-based learning experiences that we’ve developed.

Students have time in their schedule when they can continue their self-paced foreign language coursework they have brought from their school back home. Powder Term does not offer its own foreign language coursework. 

Do I need approval from my current school to attend?

You need approval from your current school if you’re planning on your child returning to their current school for the remainder of that semester, at the conclusion of the Powder Term. You may also want to get approval from your school to confirm that they will allow your child to advance to the following grade level upon returning from Powder Term if they don’t go back to attend their school for the remainder of the year. 

Does Powder Term offer academic credit?

No, Powder Term does not offer direct academic credit as the program is not officially accredited by any organization. However, some schools will accept Powder Term coursework for school credit if presented with our course descriptions and Program Guide. Powder Term recommends if course credit is needed to request pre-approval from your school before attending. 

Are cell phones and other devices allowed?

No, cell phones and other devices are not allowed. If a student is found to have and be using a cell phone they will be sent home. Students are able to send and receive letters throughout Powder Term. Students also call home the 2nd and 4th Sundays of Powder Term.

Who are the Powder Term staff members?

Powder Term will be administered, on-site, by a full-time staff that will include a program director, Socratic guides, counselors, a chef, and professional ski instructors. Jamie, Garrett, and Justin will all be cycling through the term in successive two and three week periods.

Do I need any ski experience or physical readiness? 

No, you do not need any ski experience. Yes, you should be physically fit to spend a few hours each day skiing. In order to come prepared, the child should be spending at least 30 minutes per day in rigorous activity, for a month leading up to Powder Term. Some activities could include skiing, basketball, soccer, swimming, running, etc.

Powder Term participants must come with their own jacket, snow pants, hat, goggles, gloves, socks, long underwear, neck warmer, etc. Powder Term will provide skis, boots, poles, and helmets.

Make I speak to someone at Discover Term?

We understand that you may have questions about sending your child on this epic adventure. Our Discover Term Co-Founder, Garrett Weber-Gale, is available to answer any questions you may have.