LEAP is a special end-of-year activity that is available only to underclassmen in grades 9-11. There is a variety of options, ranging from golf to a trip to Uganda. Students were asked to give their top three LEAP course options to Ms. Fagan, who then slots the kids into their LEAP for the year. 11th graders get priority, followed by 10th and 9th graders. There are only a limited number of slots available for each LEAP, and with the finalized list of LEAP students, the campus is filled with excitement.
Kevin Betsch ’26 with a catch during the 2025 Fly Fishing LEAP. Photo provided.
Sophomore Russell Astuto is in his first year at Northwood and is experiencing his first end-of-year LEAP activity. “I got slay the ADK,” Astuto said, “it was my first choice, and I am excited for it.” When asked what he is most excited about, he said, “To spend time with people I might not know super well. It’s exciting to meet new people. I am also excited for all of the activities that come with being in the LEAP, like ziplining and rafting,” Astuto added.
Faculty member Ms. Heather Odell is leading a brand-new LEAP course. She and Carrie Wardlaw are leading the trip to the Galapagos Islands. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for most people, and it is so amazing that they are able and willing to lead this LEAP. “I am most excited about visiting the place that Charles Darwin explored and researched to learn more about the evolution of species,” Odell said. “I am also excited to see the amazing wildlife and the beautiful landscape,” she added.
“LEAP week is an opportunity that you would not have anywhere else,” said Casey Morrissey ‘27. “It is sad when all your friends graduate and you must stay on campus for another week. Overall, though, it is super fun,” Morrissey added. “I am in fly fishing, and it was my first choice, so I’m pretty pumped,” He’s excited to learn about the sport of fly fishing. “Just learning more about fishing, I want to learn how to tie knots and tie-on different baits. I am also excited to learn to fly fish,” Morrissey said. “It is not something you get a chance to learn every day. Last year, some of my friends were in the fly-fishing LEAP and had a ton of success and fun while in the LEAP, so I am excited!” he added.
Staying an extra week after graduation does not sound very appealing or fun to most students new to the idea, but LEAP is a chance to do something you might never get to do again. When else are you going to be able to go to the Galapagos? The staff also does an excellent job of making the week super fun. Take full advantage of your Leap and have so much fun.
