The McCall Outdoor Science School (MOSS) is managed by the University of Idaho and located in Ponderosa State Park in McCall, Idaho. Through our partnership, all 6th grade students are given the chance to get a unique, in-depth science experience with hands-on learning connected to curricular learning standards for an entire week this coming year from November 3-7, 2025. It’s also a special bonding opportunity for our 6th graders as they near the end of their elementary experience at Future Public School. During the experience, 6th graders develop a sense of place, scientific inquiry, and collaboration, and they’re given many chances to live into our all-school values: bravery, wonder, honor, craftsmanship, and joy.
For many of our 6th grade students, the MOSS experience was an entirely new one for them. For some it was the first time they’d been away from their family overnight; for others it was their first time “camping.” Leading up to the camp there was a mix of emotions, but the students’ reflections after their week show lots of joy, adventure, and excitement for similar experiences in the future. Here are a few statements from some of our participants:

I have so many favorite memories from our trip that it’s hard to pick just one…My friends were definitely the main people who helped me get through MOSS the most, from helping me feel at home, to making me laugh every night. I also could not have gotten through without my wonderful day group, who encouraged me to keep going and help me enjoy myself outside in the snow. Overall, I am glad we went and I am grateful I have the memories from this trip forever.