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WILDCREST

Expeditionary Learning Program at South Kitsap High School

WILDCREST Expeditionary Learning at South Kitsap High School is a hands-on, project-based program for 9th graders who learn best by doing. Students spend their time in and out of the classroom engaged in investigations of real-world topics through outdoor adventures, field studies, community service, and interdisciplinary projects that connect all subject areas. They’ll work closely with teachers and industry experts, developing critical skills like leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving. WILDCREST fosters personal growth and prepares students to thrive in a changing world—all while being part of a supportive, engaged learning community. If your student is curious, active, eager to explore new ideas, and loves the outdoors, WILDCREST could be the perfect fit.

 

2025 coursework

two people, a man and a woman, standing on a forest trail surrounded by lush greenery and tall trees.
two wildcrest student projects
A group of people, likely students, standing in a field with a wooden structure in the foreground and a scenic landscape with clouds in the background.
A large tree trunk with thick, hanging green foliage stands in a lush, forested environment with other trees and vegetation visible in the background.
A group of people, likely students, gathered in a classroom setting with desks, chairs, and various educational materials visible in the background.
A person in a reflective vest stands behind a table displaying various items, with a vehicle visible in the background on a street.
A person wearing a pink jacket and safety vest is standing on a wooden structure overlooking a grassy hillside with trees in the background.
Two individuals, a person wearing a high-visibility safety vest and another person wrapped in a plaid blanket, are interacting outdoors near a wooden fence with a scenic background.
A person wearing a safety vest is sitting on the ground, intently focused on a map or document in front of them, surrounded by a wooded area.
A group of people wearing bright orange safety vests are gathered in a forested area, surrounded by tall trees with hanging branches.
Two people, a man and a woman, are standing together in a grassy outdoor area with trees and a clear sky in the background.
a wooden surface with a round, carved wooden plaque featuring a feather design, along with a red bead and a small metal object.
The image shows a person in a high-visibility vest working on a project or task, surrounded by various tools and materials on a table.
The image shows a person lying on the ground in a forested area, surrounded by fallen branches and lush greenery.
A person in a red shirt is embracing a large, moss-covered tree trunk in a lush, forested environment with tall trees and dense vegetation surrounding them.
The image shows a sign displaying information about the Union River Summer Chum Program, including a total chum count of 11.34.
A classroom setting with students seated at desks, a teacher standing at the front, and various educational materials and decor visible throughout the room.
A group of people wearing orange safety vests stand in front of a metal fence, with a wooded area and a body of water visible in the background.
A group of people wearing bright orange safety vests are gathered around a stream, examining some fish that have been found on the ground.
A group of people in safety vests examining a fish on the ground near a muddy path in a forested area.
A group of people in safety vests examining a fish on the ground near a muddy path in a forested area.

Key Features:

  • Learning Expeditions: Students engage in long-term investigations of real-world topics through outdoor adventures and interactive learning. Exploration and physical challenges help students build resilience and teamwork. Consistent attendance is key for success in the program.

  • Community Impact: Participate in meaningful service projects that connect learning to local and global issues.

  • Outdoor Adventures: Explore nature and build resilience through physical challenges and teamwork.

Why Choose WILDCREST?

  • Belong: Be part of a supportive learning community that values collaboration and connection.
  • Believe: Build confidence by applying classroom lessons in exciting, real-world settings.
  • Become: Grow into a curious, capable, and compassionate learner ready to tackle future challenges.

Schedule and Academics

WILDCREST is a yearlong program with the South Kitsap High School's schedule. Students attend four periods of WILDCREST classes on alternating A/B days and take other required courses on campus.

Consistent attendance is essential to the learning environment. WILDCREST is a learning community and is focused on the expedition experience. While we understand perfect attendance is not always possible, it is difficult to make up the learning when not fully engaged in the experience. 

Partnered with the well-balanced educational experience offered at South Kitsap High School, WILDCREST allows students to meet their academic requirements and prepares them for life beyond high school. 

Stay On Track for Graduation

Partnered with the well balanced educational experience offered at South Kitsap High School, WILDCREST allows students to meet their academic requirements and prepare them for life beyond high school. Yearlong program that follows the South Kitsap High School schedule. Students attend four class periods of WILDCREST every other day, alternating with traditional South Kitsap High School courses.

Wildcrest students doing chum salmon field work
WILDCREST

Join the WILDCREST Adventure!

Enrollment for the 2026-2027 school year will open in early 2026.

How to Apply:

  • Indicate interest on the SKHS 2026/27 course registration form, then application will be sent to you.

Application Window

  • The application window will open in early 2026.
  • Late applications will be placed on a waitlist.
  • A lottery system followed by a student/teacher/parent conference will be used if there are more applications than space available.

     

Program Coordinator

Candace Barich

Candace Barich
  • Phone: 360-874-6285
  • Email: wildcrest@skschools.org

Program Coordinator

Bradley Lantz

  • Phone: 360-874-6400x2942
  • Email: lantz@skschools.org

Teacher

Michelle Carter

  • Email: carter@skschools.org