The wind whipped across the deck as a team of Plumas Charter School sixth-graders hauled on a thick rope, working together to bring up the net during a Discovery Voyage on the San Francisco Bay. Their laughter was as loud as the waves, and every pull brought a new sense of teamwork and excitement. It was just one moment in a four-day journey that blended environmental science, hands-on learning and unforgettable adventure.

From May 20 to May 23, PCS’s ESSE (Environmental Science & Student Exploration) program took students far beyond the classroom, immersing them in the diverse natural and cultural landscapes of the Bay Area. 

This year’s trip offered a full spectrum of experiences that blended outdoor adventure with hands-on learning. Students hiked through and along coastal bluffs, discovering native plants and wildlife against the stunning backdrop of the Golden Gate. Out on the water, they took part in the Discovery Voyage, boating across the Bay while learning about marine life, water quality and the area’s maritime history. At Ocean Beach, students suited up for surfing lessons, starting with practice on the sand before braving the Pacific swells. Their journey also led them into the heart of the city, where they explored, visited Pier 39 and spent time at the Exploratorium—a place where science and art come together in surprising and interactive ways.

One evening, the group stood at the edge of Pier 39, watching sea lions sprawled across floating docks. The sun dropped behind the Golden Gate Bridge, turning the water gold, and students leaned against the rail, taking in the scene with a mix of awe and curiosity.

This program is funded by the Outdoor Equity Grants Program, created through AB 209 and administered by California State Parks, Office of Grants and Local Services. The grant supports PCS’s commitment to making outdoor learning accessible for all students, ensuring they can explore new places, build real-world skills and develop a lifelong connection to nature.

The ESSE program has long been a PCS tradition, with past graduates often naming the Bay Area adventure as their favorite school memory. Judging by the grins, salty hair and shared stories on the ride home, this year’s trip will be remembered the same way.