Student's Finish Strong at The Kootenai River Run

Start Last, Finish First

This year was another great race for participants from Turning Winds Academic Institute in the Kootenai River Run.  There were over 300 participants that came from BC Canada and across various areas throughout the Northwest to compete in the race.  This is the third year that TWAI has had students compete in the Kootenai River Run; four of our students along with a dedicated staff from TWAI made for another excellent finish.

According to Ian B., one of the student’s from TWAI, this is how the race went down, “Everyone gathered at the starting area, and before looking, we heard the pop of the starting gun and most of the crowd launched forward. We started off in the back of the park with the mentality of, “Start Last, Finish First." We quickly made it through most of the crowd and we were well on our way to running the 10K. The run took us from the park just behind the Kootenai River Brewery Company and across the bridge before we started
through the secluded neighborhoods of Bonners Ferry.  We kept a steady pace throughout the run apart from a few walking breaks. When we got back to the park and crossed the finish line, only about 50 minutes had passed, which round’s out to about 9 minutes miles. When the times were posted, we found that for 16-19 age categories, we placed 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th; we were all quite satisfied with those results.” 

We extend our congratulations to Ian, Trevor, Nick, Luke and Jan for a race ran well!  At Turning Winds Academic Institute we strive to create sustainable success through meaningful activities; therapeutic services and excellent, academic achievement.  For more information on how Turning Winds Academic Institute may be of service to your son or daughter, please call us at:  800-845-1380.

Having fun at Silverwood

Having Fun at Silverwood

Students from Turning Winds Academic Institute spent the day at Silverwood.  Silverwood is the largest theme park in the pacific northwest which includes over 65 attractions ranging from water slides to roller coasters that travel at speeds over 55 mph. 

The first part of the day was spent at the water park where the boys enjoyed racing down Velocity Peak water slides; taking a group raft down Ricochet Rapids; enjoying Boulder Beach Bay swimming in the wave pool; and just relaxing in the sun to work on those tans.

After eating lunch at Orlando's Mexican food, we ventured into the theme park with the rides.  The kids could not get enough of Tremors which is a roller coaster that dives under ground.  In addition to Tremors the students had some fun riding on additional roller coasters such as:  Timber Terror, Spin cycle, After Shock and Corkscrew.  The young men had a great day and seemed a little worn out from having too much fun!



It is essential that teenager's have a healthy outlets and that includes having fun!  At Turning Winds Academic Institute, we take the time to engage in meaningful experiences with teens.  There is something for every student to connect with.  For more information on how we may be of assistance in helping guide, inspire and empowering your child to change, please Contact Us or call at: 1-800-845-1380.

Turning Winds Academic Institute - A Time to Reflect

Turning Winds Academic Institute has utilized the power of creating meaningful, outdoor experiences since inception. Have you ever taken a family camping trip, picnic or gone on a hike to someplace that is absolutely serene - the views are spectacular; the creations/designs of the environment sparks wonder and amazement; the peace which one feels is enlightening; the fresh mountain air is invigorating; and the excitement of seeing wildlife is like being a kid all over again.

The experience in these unique environments can assist in providing new insight or perspective on life; hence, the reason why we at TWAI believe that this is an important aspect of our treatment approach. Every student enrolled in our therapeutic, boarding school will have the opportunity to embark on a six day journey in some of the most amazing places in this country. Some of these treasures are found in Places like Hell's Canyon, Seven Devil's Peaks, Ross Lake and the Selkirk Mountains.

 Safety, awareness and preparedness are critical themes that are taught throughout the preparation and training for these outdoor excursions. Some of the major areas of focus include the following: environmental hazards, leave no trace, hiking etiquette, how to properly treat water, proper gear and clothing, care and proper use of equipment and first-aid. The guides that lead these outdoor expeditions have decades of experience and are equipped with the latest technology to assist in location monitoring and rescue if needed.  We feel fortunate that in the almost twenty years of backpacking with teenagers, we have never had any major incidents with our students. 

A typical journey will result in viewing some amazing wildlife ranging from pesky mice, deer, wolves and we have even seen bears while out in the wilderness.  We strive to create a feeling of success in the teens that participate in these journeys as they are able to accomplish such a great feat.  This last Fall a group of ambitious boys decided to shorten their hiking days and instead of backpacking 20 miles in two days they did it in just one day.  What an amazing accomplishment!  Who do you know who could carry a back-pack weighing anywhere from 35-50lbs and hike 20 miles in one day?  The last day of our trip we usually spend having some extra fun, such as going to Scarywood near Coeur D'Alene, ID; going out to the movies or spending the day at an indoor water park while eating out at some great restaurants.  The kids are always impressed and glad they went regardless of the work that was required to successfully complete a meaningful backpacking trip.  And before you know it, time seems to have warped forward and we are on our way back to the school to share the great experiences which we had for those days while we were out trekking across the mountains. 

For more information about Turning Winds Academic Institute, please call us at:  800-845-1380 or Contact Us.

Snowshoeing at Turing Winds Academic Institute

Another wintery activity, for students in Montana at Turning Winds Academic Institute.  The leaders along with the teenage boys and girls geared up to prepare for a snowshoeing adventure.  As the students were strapping on the snowshoes, others were telling stories of how enchanted it was to hear the cry of wolves howling at night, as is common in Northwest Montana.  The powder was fresh with a base of about two feet of snow on the ground.



The only sounds that echoed through the trees were those from the boys and girls laughing and talking as they meandered through the forest on snowshoes.  The kids had fun throwing snow balls at each other along the way and telling stories of what they were planning on doing on their next visit home. One of the boys even jumped in the deep powder to make a snow-angel. Being with these youth to create fun and exciting experiences is such a blessing! Before too long, the sun had set and it was time to back track in order to arrive on-campus before it was too dark outside to navigate through the woods.  It always seems like there is never enough time when you’re having so much fun! After arriving back at the school, we quickly removed our gear and went inside to warm up by the crackling fire while sipping on some nice warm hot chocolate.

Turning Winds Academic Institute - Teens Having Fun!

There is something special about experiencing Mother Nature up close and personal in the winter time.  Sometimes this experience is a once in a lifetime opportunity or the beginning of a continuing adventure. ~“The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience.”
― Eleanor Roosevelt

Turning Winds Academic Institute is proud to sponsor such amazing activities.  Teenage boys and girls need a good outlet in order to lead a healhty lifestyle!



On January 6, 2013 half a dozen young men from our boys' group embarked on a hiking, snow shoeing, skiing adventure which is likely to have left an imprint on their characters and serve as a terrific memory much longer than the tracks they left in the snow. Upon completing a 2 hour trek up the ungroomed Flat Iron Trail, which the boys completed wearing packs weighed down with their gear, the adventurers stopped for lunch at the top while taking in the magnificent view.


Once lunch was complete the group was ready for some downhill excitement!  There was no shortage of ideal, white, powdery snow for the novices and experienced skiers and boarders alike to indulge in.  No doubt the trip down the trail went much quicker than the vertical snow shoe hike to the summit, but each was exhilerating in its own way.  Just as much as the appreciation of the landscape and the cooperation and comraderie of one another, more than anything, the sense of accomplishment and the gratitude for the experience was on the minds of our adventurerers at the end of the day.

Just a little taste of a North Idaho/Western Montana Winter!

As we approach the Holidays it seems time is passing with ever increasing speed.  It has been a year of transition, joy, struggle, frustration, and accomplishment.  Through it all there has been progress and acheivement that will no doubt carry us into the New Year on a high note, looking foward to opportunities for improvement, growth, and success.  Mark Victor Hansen states, "Your belief determines your action and your action determines your results, but first you have to believe.".  We truly believe in our students, family, and staff here at Turning Winds and their ability to help one another and themselves by taking action to make every life and experience better, more productive and enjoyable.

Here's to the end of a remarkable 2012 and the beginning of an amazing 2013!

Group of Boys Venture to Ross Lake, Washington

Each student has the potential to earn the opportunity to participate in a venturing experience during their time at Turning Winds Academic Institute.  Venturing is beneficial for so many reasons.  Our Operations Director, Enoch Stump shares that, “venturing experiences allow students to connect with the outdoors; a lot of our students have never experienced the joy and peace that comes from being in beautiful country.  It also offers a time that students can get out on their own and reflect more effectively without the hustle and noise that being in a school environment can bring.  There is a lot of emotional growth that comes from students having to push themselves physically but most important mentally.  It offers a forum for students to be challenged in ways they are not used to and a supportive team environment to help get them through the challenges. Students come back with stronger relationships with each other as well as more confidence to be able to address the problems that being a teenager can present.”

 

 

Day One-

“Woke up and prepared for our departure from Turning Winds Academic Institute. It took several hours to arrive at Goodell and the campsite. Once there we set up our tents. By the time we finished getting camp set-up it was 10 pm and time to get some sleep.”

 

 

Day Two-

“We woke up at 7 am and ate breakfast. After breakfast, we packed up camp and prepared for our first Trek of the trip. We filled up our water bottles from the river and then went to get our permit. It took two places, but we finally got our permit. While we were there we were given a lesson on “leave no trace”. The lesson covered the importance of leaving a campsite the way you initially found it when out on the trails and why it is so important to do so. We then drove about 30 miles to the East Bank Trail Head. We ate lunch and then hit the trail. WE hiked a solid 3 miles until we stopped to meet another group at a junction. While we were waiting a few people treated blisters. After we drank some water we continued on the East Bank Trail. The first 20 to 24 minutes were all uphill. We regretted stopping right before it. We went for about 3 miles until we crossed Roland Creek, the widest creek we had crossed so far. About 50 yards after the sign for Roland Creek campsite and happily went to pick our spots. We set up camp and then cooked dinner not long after. After dinner, we spent some time relaxing around the campfire. John then assigned us our individual writing assignments. Right after we all participated in an affirmation group session. It gave the day closure and made everyone feel very good about what they had accomplished that day. With some struggle we finally managed to hang out bear bag. Some people stayed up talking around the campfire while others headed to bed. By 11 pm we were all in our tents and asleep for the night.”

Day Three-

“We woke at 7:30 am and promptly made oatmeal for breakfast. Then we filled up our water and broke down camp. We left camp around 9:30 am and started our 5.5 mile hike. After about 1 mile, the trail came right next to the lake where it stayed for the remainder of the hike. We had a beautiful view all day. At our 4^th or 5^thmile we went across a bridge. Normally we would jump off of it, but the water level was very low. We finished the hike strong and ate lunch once we arrived at Devil’s Creek Stock Camp. After lunch we set-up camp, at that point Owen’s group took a nap while John’s group went to fill on water. While down filling up water, we also soaked our sore muscles. Once we were finished, we took a nap as well. Then everyone worked on our writing assignments and relaxed. At 6 pm ate dinner. Once everything was cleaned up, we gathered around the campfire and participated in a group on symbolism. The evening concluded relaxing and talking around the campfire before heading to our tents and much needed sleep.”

Day Four-

“This was a tough day. We woke up and broke camp. We finally headed out of camp for the first leg of the hike around 9:30 am. Our goal was to make it the 3.3 miles to Lightening Creek without stopping and that is exactly what we did. We made it in just over an hour. Just as we reached the rendezvous point on the beachhead, the boat was coming to drop off Carl and Russell. We went down to the beach and took a 2 hour lunch break while our leaders staffed up and transferred all information. After we were done resting we began the nightmare 7 mile hike uphill to the nightmare campsite. The first half was grueling. We gained about 2,000 feet elevation going up brutal slopes and switchbacks. Once we made it around the back of the mountain the trail leveled out a bit and we completed the final stretch of the hike. Along the way there were incredible views of sheer cliffs once we reached the peaks of the mountain. After about a mile going into a valley, we reached a river that we followed for the last few miles. We crossed a bridge over the river and not 200 yards later was the nightmare campsite. We set-up out tents then Fabian and I (Matt) started a campfire using moss and a magnesium striker. Then we ate dinner and had a group about the goals we wanted to accomplish during the trip. We also discussed what we would like to take out of this venturing experience. After that some people went to bed while other sat around the campfire sharing stories until we went to bed at 11:30 pm.”

 

 

 

Day Five-

“We woke up at about 9:30 am and broke camp. After a quick breakfast, we took some pictures by a huge ancient cedar tree and a small glacier about 100 yards from nightmare camp. Then we headed out of camp. We had to climb a pretty steep slope to get up and out of the valley before we could start going back down toward the lake. About half-way through the 7 mile hike, we split into 2 groups. Russell’s group took off our packs and bushwhacked up to a lake called Ridley Lake. It was a beautiful mountain lake. Afterwards we continued up the trail until we reached another point where we needed to bushwhack again. We took a shortcut at this point to Hozomene Lake. Once we arrived there we were amazed at the incredible beauty. It was worth the extra work to get there. We finished out the day with a 4 mile hike to base camp with elevation dropping steady along the way. This section of the trail was covered with fallen trees. This added to the adventure as we had to climb over many of them. Once we reached the camp at Hozomene it was about 6 pm. We ate dinner and set-up camp. The remainder of the evening was spent relaxing by the campfire before it was time for bed. 

 

Day Six-

“We woke up at 6:30 am and broke camp. After breakfast we went down to the lake about a mile from the pick-up spot. We got picked up and had a 45 minute boat ride full of breathtaking views. Then we hiked out 3 miles to the cars and waited for the other group. We then packed up and headed back to TWAI. Along the way we stopped at a buffet in Spokane, WA to eat. It was incredible! We arrived back at TWAI around 1:30 am.”

 

 “The overall feeling of venturing was that it was not easy. The trip was difficult and full of struggles/obstacles to overcome. But over and over these struggles were met with determination and overtaken with intense tenacity. At the end of the trip the overall feelings were of accomplishment. Everyone pushed themselves further than they thought possible. Confidence in one’s ability and the accomplishments made by the group made the entire trip worth it. The group as a whole felt very fortunate be given this experience. These are memories we will carry with us our entire lives.” ~Daniel B.

 

TWAI staff member Russell T. shares about his venturing experience:

“The trip went very well overall. We had a lot of fun, and it really pushed to students to grow in new ways. I strongly believe in the therapeutic benefits of the great outdoors, and I think that it was a very positive experience for the majority of the students. The most obvious challenge that the students faced was the physical endurance needed to hike many miles with 40-50 pound backpacks. The first day that I was on the trip we hiked about 8 miles, and for many of the students this hike pushed them virtually to their limits. Other challenges the students faced included getting along with each other and maintaining a positive outlook on the trip. Mentally the students knew what they needed to do, and I believe that although they definitely had rough patches, they pulled through by their belief in their abilities. Sometimes things may not be easy, but if you believe you can complete the task and you just put your head down and push as hard as you can, you can make it through. I believe that this is what many of the students did. They saw what had to be done, and they just kept plodding away until they made it to their destination. Venturing opportunities are a huge asset for the staff and students of Turning Winds Academic Institute. Venturing is a tool that we can use that pushes students out of their limits. I believe that the only way we, as humans, learn is when we are pushed out of our limits. The outdoors is an incredible workshop for us to help students learn and grow.”