We are pleased to offer Menlo Middle School students a new summer travel opportunity to Southern Arizona, June 9-June 14, 2024.
The excursion, which departs after the close of the school year, will provide a dynamic exploration of environmental, indigenous, and immigration issues. The journey begins in Tucson, Arizona, followed by a visit to Patagonia. Students will learn about traditional survival methods in the Sonoran Desert and participate in permaculture projects with the Borderlands Restoration Network and Bean Tree Farm. The proximity to the border wall at Nogales provides a unique perspective on migration and its ecological impact.
The trip then proceeds to Elgin, where students engage with the Canelo Project. This segment emphasizes sustainable living in arid environments, including hands-on learning in building with natural materials like straw and earth. The final destination is Ajo, located near the Mexico border. In Ajo, the International Sonoran Desert Alliance and the Tohono O’odham Nation host the group, offering insights into indigenous art and culture preservation, border patrol operations, and narratives of recent migrants.
Throughout the trip, students participate in various projects, hikes, and entertaining activities, all set against the backdrop of Southern Arizona’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural history.