Confluence
The first day of school is always a little hectic with new schedules, new teachers, new classes, new friends and old friends. And at Cascades Academy, on the second day we all leave the school behind, together, and go off to Confluence.

Confluence is, as the name suggests, where everything comes together. Before we get all wrapped up in classes, studying, and homework, we like to spend a little time getting used to each other and the idea of school again--to remember who we are, and what we are doing, and maybe why. And we like to do this somewhere where there are trees, and cabins, and places to swim, so we do not find ourselves getting too serious too fast.

At the core of Confluence are Advisories. Much of what happens during confluence centers around Advisory meetings to review the handbook and academic schedule as well as to reflect on last year as well as set goals for the new year. There is also plenty of time for the whole school to get together for hiking, swimming, the talent show, commando tag, and the grand finale of the Cardboard Regatta.


Autumn Outings
The middle and upper school students participate in off-campus trips during early fall term in mixed aged groups. The purpose behind the trips is to learn and experience different environments that the Northwest has to offer. Autumn Outings allow students to interact with other students that they do not have contact with on a daily basis and aids in the creation of community at the school. The faculty leads these trips. Itineraries have included trips to the Oregon coast, the Black Canyon wilderness area, Summer Lake and Smith Rock State Park.


The Outdoor Program
The Cascades Academy Outdoor Program is available to students in the middle and upper school to interact with and enjoy the natural areas in and around Central Oregon. The trips are arranged by Peter Covell, the director the program, and involve other faculty members and parents. Cascades Academy students participate in day hikes, mountain biking trips as well as excursions rafting and fishing. During the winter months, the ski program at Mt. Bachelor keeps the students active and some students choose to go snowshoeing and backcountry skiing. These trips are all voluntary, and the groups that participate are enthusiastic about enjoying the best Central Oregon has to offer.