Courageous by Choice: Cardinal Students Visit Camp Courageous

posted July 5, 2022

Just before the start of the summer, five Cardinal students, Amanda Jarvis (instruction strategist II for our middle and high school), three associates, and two Cardinal parents attended Camp Courageous. The camp provides recreational opportunities for individuals with special needs of all ages. Every year, they offer a three-day camp to school districts.

“This is the first year Cardinal was able to attend,” Ms. Jarvis shares. “We are thankful that the Arc of Jefferson & Nearby Counties, along with Cardinal School District, helped financially support this trip to make it a reality for our students.”

Ms. Jarvis worked alongside Sabrina Morrison, Cardinal's special education instructional coach, and the administration to fine-tune the criteria to attend the camp and select students who would enjoy the experience. Ms. Morrison also joined the camp for a single-day excursion with a couple of the students who opted not to stay overnight.

“It is not easy because we are gone for three days and that can be hard for families and the student,” Ms. Jarvis explained.

The camp makes a point to ensure guests feel welcomed and comfortable. Students can choose what activities they want to participate in and which ones they don’t. 

“One of the camp's mottos is ‘Courageous by Choice,’” Ms. Jarvis said. “This means the students can choose how much of an activity to try.”

Camp Courageous guests can rope climb, swim, zipline, canoe, climb trees and so much more. Our Cardinal students also tried archery, laser tag and cooking activities. 

“My favorite part was, and always will be, watching all the students try new things, have a giant smile and seeing them receive the feeling of accomplishment,” Ms. Jarvis said. “Camp has always had a special place in my heart because seeing students succeed, smile and be themselves is one of the greatest gifts we get as a teacher.”

She was thrilled to see one student, in particular, who does not like to break his normal routine, at least attempt all of the activities he wanted to try.

Ms. Jarvis is already prepping for next year’s camp, working with Ms. Morrison on curriculum to prepare students for the camp experience and planning fundraisers to help bring more students.

“Camp Courageous is a place where individuals with disabilities do not have limits,” Ms. Jarvis said. “Our students benefit by feeling a sense of accomplishment, independence and team building.”