Students Keep Reaching New Heights in Rock Climbing Club

For more than 20 years, PAA students have been pushing themselves to new heights through Rock Climbing Club. Each week beginning in late fall, students head to Movement Gym one to two evenings a week to boulder and climb, building skills, strength, and confidence with every attempt.

Students learn far more than climbing techniques. Many earn lead climber certifications, while all develop stamina, perseverance, and trust as they encourage one another to try hard things, and keep trying when the climb gets tough. Whether brand new to climbing or already experienced, students grow together, celebrating progress and cheering each other on.

A dedicated team of sponsors and chaperones - Mark Smith, Jim Hughes, Maria Bibb, and Jessica Minden - creates a safe, supportive environment where students are challenged and empowered. Under the long-time leadership of Mark Smith, a respected and accomplished climber, students experience both high expectations and strong encouragement.

Each spring, the club heads to Smith Rock for a weekend of outdoor climbing, a highlight students look forward to all year. For many, Rock Climbing Club sparks a lifelong passion. Alumni have gone on to earn advanced certifications, work at summer camps and climbing gyms, and become instructors themselves.

We are incredibly grateful for a program that gives students the chance to grow stronger - physically, mentally, and socially - while having an incredible time together.