Wisdom Retreat
Grade 12
From a student at Madison West High School, Madison, Wis.:
“I was amazed by the things my classmates shared during discussion and at the end of the retreat.
I was able to see my classmates in a more positive light.”
Key Learning Objectives for the Retreat
Nurture wise choices for the remainder of the school year and beyond.
Increase school connectedness during a critical time in their lives.
Provide seniors with the opportunity to strengthen relationships and bring healthy closure to their high school years.
WHAT TO EXPECT
OUR CONTENT
Youth Frontiers programs are designed to define, explain and inspire key character traits like kindness, courage and respect. Our content is scripted and consistent in delivery from client to client. To make our programs accessible and inviting to all clients, our messaging intentionally avoids topics such as political, social and religious content. When on retreat, staff are expected to communicate the program’s message and refrain from expressing personal beliefs and opinions. Any personal stories staff share to illustrate our character-based content have been vetted and edited as necessary to resonate and connect with our mission.
OUR FACILITATORS
Our programs staff come from a variety of academic and professional backgrounds, bringing their strong storytelling, musical performance and facilitation skills to our dynamic programs. Staff are vetted through a multi-step hiring process, undergo annual background checks and participate in ongoing observation, coaching, and training and development opportunities. These efforts are to ensure that we employ facilitators who deliver our message of character, consistently provide high quality programs, and ultimately have a positive impact on everyone they engage with through our retreats.
RETREAT AGENDA
HIGH-ENERGY
With original music from musicians and high-energy facilitators, we encourage students to play, laugh and connect with one another.
ACTIVITIES
Community-building activities designed to break down social barriers help foster stronger relationships among students.
PRESENTATION
Our Program Staff share personal stories centered on the value of the day. With humor and heart, they challenge kids to make a difference in their school.
SMALL GROUPS
Throughout the day, students meet in self-led small groups to talk about what they are learning and experiencing.
SHARING
At the end of the retreat, students have a chance to share positive memories and thank or acknowledge classmates and teachers.
THE DETAILS
GRADES
12th Grade:
(Students opt in.)
LENGTH OF RETREAT
5 hours 15 minutes
COST TO SCHOOLS
Pricing for the 2025-26 school year:
Twin Cities: $4,095
Midwest: $4,745 (MN, WI, IA, NE)
National: $4,095 + travel costs
WAYS TO FUND IT
Learn about grants and fundraising ideas to help you pay for a retreat.
PLAN YOUR RETREAT
PREP PACK
A helpful checklist and guide for getting the most out of your retreat.
PRIORITY ONE (P1) FORM
This form tells us everything we need to know to prepare for your retreat.
SAMPLE MEMO TO STAFF
We offer a sample memo to tell school staff about your upcoming retreat.
LETTER TO CAREGIVERS
We offer a sample letter to tell parents and caregivers about your upcoming retreat.
We would love to talk to you about how the Wisdom Retreat
can help inspire character and build community in your school.