Cabin Leaders


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You are about to make a huge difference and become a wonderful influence on a whole cabin full of wonderful students. To help you prepare for this adventure, here are some frequently asked questions that many cabin leaders have. For an overview of what it means to be a cabin leader, please download the Cabin Leader Handbook!

What is a Cabin Leader?

A Cabin Leader is someone who volunteers their time to supervise students for 4 to 5 day trips to Wrightwood. Cabin Leaders have two main roles. Their primary role is to supervise students during cabin time, when students prepare for activities, do homework, clean and sleep. Their other role is to assist Naturalists during trail times, meals and evening programs.

What is the schedule like?

Cabin Leaders get a one hour break (9:30-10:30a.m. OR 3:00-4:00p.m., Naturalist discretion) on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. They also get one day (9:30a.m.-4 p.m.) off per week. Learn more about our routine with our sample schedule.

What will I be eating?

Please take a look at our sample menu. As a Cabin Leader, we will feed you three filling meals and two snacks per day!  If you would like more food, or have special dietary needs, Cabin Leaders may bring their own food, but it must be stored in the Cabin Leader Lounge (keeping any food in the cabins invites in mice).

Where will I be living?

To see the student and cabin leader's accommodations, check out the cabin and lodge rooms in our tour.

What should I bring?

In addition to the the packing list given to you by your school, here are some extra details.

Will I be able to communicate with the outside world?

While cell phones do work at Wrightwood, we prefer that you are discreet in their use.  Please plan to use your phone only during your off-time and out of view of the students, unless you are using it to contact teachers or outdoor school staff.

Will I be able to communicate with my cabin student's parents?

Outdoor Science School is a school.  While you are here, you are a volunteer for the school system.  All communications with student's parents, doctors, etc. must go through your school's teachers or the Outdoor School principal, Kathleen Mitchell.  If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us.  We are here to help!

How do I handle a group of up to ten students in the cabin?

We expect that you will have a great, memorable week with the students in your cabin.  Cabin time is often one of the most memorable parts of Outdoor Science School for the kids, and you will be their role model!  Never fear, our staff and your school teachers are always available (24 hours a day) to provide backup if you have any issues in your cabin.  Here are a few of the most common situations (homesickness, elevation sickness, and behavioral issues), and some suggestion on how to approach them. 


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