For students currently in grades 6–8
Eligible for 8th grade*
*These programs are typically for students in grades 9–12, however motivated rising 9th graders will be considered
Grades 7&8
Grades 7&8
Grades 6–8
Grades 7&8
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Custom Programs

Looking to create a custom program or collaboration?

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Hawai’i

Island Habitat Restoration & Hawaiian Culture

June 28 — July 11
$6,990 + airfare

Hawai’i

Island Habitat Restoration & Hawaiian Culture

June 28 — July 11
$6,990 + airfare

Experience Hawaii’s incredible biodiversity, stunning beaches, and rich cultural heritage as you explore the Big Island and Maui. These volcanic islands are home to an incredibly unique biology and culture, both of which are threatened by outside forces ranging from tourism to climate change. This summer, collaborate with local organizations and community members on environmental conservation and cultural revitalization. Learn about the Hawaiian concept of Malama ‘Āina, or caring for the land, as you work in partnership with local non-profit organizations to plant and harvest staple crops such as taro, remove invasive species, and work on various land rehabilitation and cultural revitalization projects on the north side of the Big Island and in the Olowalu Valley on Maui. Meet and “talk story” with islanders working diligently to preserve Hawaiian history and culture, snorkel with manta rays off the Kona coast, explore inactive calderas and lava tubes in Volcanoes National Park, and take surf lessons on Maui.

• Explore the lava flows and geothermal landscapes of Volcanoes National Park
• Collaborate with local non-profit organizations and individuals to restore native plant habitats
• Learn to surf in Maui’s pristine waters and snorkel in wildlife-rich bays
• Take part in engaging, hands-on cultural workshops and interactive classes
“…the ‘awa ceremony, it was just so beautiful and so significant. It was such an honor to sit in a traditional setting and receive the ‘awa cup as if I was one of their people. Stories were told and so much was shared; I loved it.”
—Allison L., Manhasset Secondary School, Manhassett, NY

Itinerary

This itinerary represents our best projection of the group’s schedule. However, we may implement changes designed to improve the quality of the program.

Itinerary

This itinerary represents our best projection of the group’s schedule. However, we may implement changes designed to improve the quality of the program.

Featured

Leaders

Meet some of our featured leaders. Please note that these may not be your leaders for the program. 

Featured

Leaders

Meet some of our featured leaders. Please note that these may not be your leaders for the program. 

What to Expect

Review specific program expectations here. For more general information:

What to Expect

Review specific program expectations here. For more general information:

A Day in the Life: Waimea​

Due to the traveling nature of this summer program abroad, each day is different. Here is a snapshot of a day in Waimea.

A Day in the Life:
Waimea​

Due to the traveling nature of this summer program abroad, each day is different. Here is a snapshot of a day in Waimea.
“As Ronin’s parents, we immediately noticed a growth in confidence and feeling of content after the program. This type of program allows for independence with supervision, growth with guidance and exploration with a full heart and mind.”
—Dawn H., Oakton, VA
portia-watson

This Program is Directed by

Portia Watson

If you have questions or would like to talk further about this program, please get in touch!

portia-watson

This Program is Directed by

Portia Watson

If you have questions or would like to talk further about this program, please get in touch!

Enroll in two programs & save $1,000!

$800 tuition discount + no application fee

Exploration
Service
Eligible for 8th grade*​
*These programs are typically for students in grades 9–12, however motivated rising 9th graders will be considered
Grades 7&8​
Grades 7&8​
Grades 6–8
Grades 7&8​
Hawai’i
Island Habitat Restoration & Hawaiian Culture

2024 Dates
June 28 — July 11

Duration
14 days

Tuition
$6,990 + airfare

Eligibility
Currently* in grades 9–12
*Your grade as of the day you apply

Typical Group
14–16 students, 2 leaders

Group Flight
Departs from Los Angeles

Service Hours
30–40 

Additional Info

Questions? Visit our FAQ or call us at (802) 387-5000

 

2024 Dates
June 28 — July 11

Duration
14 days

Tuition
$6,990 + airfare

Service Hours
30–40 

Eligibility
Currently* in grades 9–12
*Your grade as of the day you apply

Typical Group
14–16 students, 2 leaders

Group Flight
Departs from Los Angeles

 

Questions? Visit our FAQ or call us at (802) 387-5000

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Why Choose Putney?

Putney has been the leader in student travel and educational summers for more than 70 years. As a family-run organization, our decades of experience, our dedication to quality programs, and the personal service you receive are unmatched.

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