STEMCivics students get a variety of weekend fun
Following a work week that included shoveling tons of stones, tons of dirt and enjoying almost as much of rice and beans food staple, gallo pinto, STEM Civics Charter School students enjoyed a play date. Volunteer efforts were placed on hold as students left Santa Cruz, Costa Rica for an exciting day at Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park.
This jewel-encrusted wonderland, one of many in the rich country of Costa Rica, offers waterfalls, lakes and streams, plus, hiking, horseback riding, and zip lining.
Shanya Mcdonald rode the Tour bus, pleased about a halfway point for a trip that lasts Feb. 5-13.
The junior smiled but admitted nervousness, especially about equestrian challenges.
“No, I’ve never been on a horse before. I hope it doesn’t run off with me,” Mcdonald said.
The horse never broke away although a fast trot caused concern. “I didn’t like it,” she offered afterward.
The morning started with a nine-station zip line course with an initial 1,000 feet trip over a tree-covered valley.
Mcdonald loved flying through the forest and tight spaces between rock formations.
An exiting tube ride followed as cool river water offset temperatures near 97 degrees before students enjoyed lunch.
Next they relaxed in several hot-spring pools as sunset approached.
“It was a great day, a day when I tried several new things. A lot of fun,” Mcdonald offered