The Storm King School Class of 2026 came together recently for the annual Senior Retreat—an important school tradition designed to help students strengthen their connections, reflect on the year ahead, and foster a shared sense of purpose for their final year.

Set against the natural backdrop of Black Rock Forest, the retreat took place at the Black Rock Forest Lodge, just a short walk from campus. Students and faculty advisors gathered at the theater before setting off together on foot, beginning the experience with a symbolic transition into nature and reflection. Upon their arrival, they were welcomed with a lively pizza party dinner, complete with sushi, ice cream, and other treats, before diving into the evening's activities.

Photos by Eric W. '27

The Retreat featured a series of activities aimed at promoting connection, creativity, and self-reflection. The evening began with "Circle of Questions," an engaging icebreaker where students paired up and rotated through thoughtful prompts, encouraging meaningful dialogue and building class bonds. The group then transitioned to the Advisor Panel, where faculty shared personal insights about their senior year experiences and offered advice on navigating the college application process.

Photos by Eric W. '27

Next, students tackled the Marshmallow Challenge, a hands-on team-building competition to build the tallest freestanding structure using spaghetti, string, tape, and a marshmallow. This lighthearted but challenging activity encouraged collaboration, quick thinking, and problem-solving.

Later in the evening, students turned inward with the Letter to Your Future Self activity, reflecting on their goals, dreams, and personal challenges for the year ahead. Many also included drawings of their spirit animals, adding a creative, symbolic element to their reflections. These letters will be sealed and returned to them at the end of the school year. In small groups, some students shared highlights from their reflections and brainstormed ideas for the senior sweatshirt, eventually voting on a design to represent their class.

The Retreat concluded with a full-group reflection and discussion, rounding out a night that balanced fun, purpose, and connection. As the students made their way back to campus under a clear sky full of stars, it was evident that the Class of 2026 had grown closer and more grounded in their shared vision for a meaningful and successful final year at Storm King.