Ninth graders from The Academy of Seminole and The Academy of Okmulgee gathered at St. Crispin’s Conference Center and Campground for Camp Quest, a weekend retreat designed to kick off the start of high school with purpose and community.

Students set aside their phones and screens to focus on connection, reflection, and fun. Activities ranged from water sports and campfires to large group games and team-building challenges, giving students the chance to take risks, build friendships, and strengthen their confidence.

The weekend featured a keynote address from Rhett Laubach, who encouraged students to bring their best to school, their goals, and their relationships. Breakout sessions led by members of the leadership team and school staff helped students explore their personal strengths, discover what makes them unique, and think about how to use those strengths to shape their future.

“I could not be prouder of the way our students came together this weekend,” said Sheri Bray, Director of Life Planning and Camp Quest organizer. “They showed they are willing to dive in, try new things, and take their high school journey seriously. I can’t wait to see what they do over the next four years.”

The Academies of Oklahoma is a public charter school district built on a life planning model. The Academy of Seminole was Oklahoma’s first rural charter school. Since then, the district has expanded to serve additional communities, with plans to grow further across rural Oklahoma. Every student graduates with a personalized life plan and clear next steps for life after high school. Many participate in the district’s Early College High School program, earning an associate degree at no cost to their families, while others graduate with industry-recognized certificates through partnerships with local colleges, universities, and technology centers.