Every summer has its own rhythm, and at Oxford Academy, that rhythm is set by curiosity, laughter, and the steady hum of activity both in and out of the classroom. This year’s Summer on the Shoreline program brought together students from near and far—boys and girls in grades 8–12 and postgraduates—for a season of new friendships, hands-on learning, and adventures by the Connecticut coast. From the greenhouse to the shoreline, from morning meditations to roller coasters, the program offered a little bit of everything: a chance to explore, to reflect, to take risks, and to grow.
The program began with a blend of wonder and sweetness: a trip to Mystic Aquarium followed by a stop at Sweet Luna’s ice cream. Watching sharks glide past the glass and then sharing a cone with friends set the tone for what the summer would become—immersive, joyful, and full of shared experiences.
Oxford has always believed that learning happens best when it is active, personal, and memorable, and this summer was no exception. A perfect example came early in the form of the frozen t-shirt challenge. Students faced a block of ice encasing an Oxford shirt and had to work together to thaw, untangle, and wear it before naming their entire team and where each person was from. Hot sand, metal bars, and even Foster Pond became tools in the effort. The victorious team—Rex, Yassine, Madoka, Melissa, and Shinto—walked away with big smiles and the kind of inside jokes that only summer camp can create.
Weekends brought even more opportunities for adventure. Students traveled to New York City, explored Lake Compounce amusement park, and competed in a spirited scavenger hunt that sent them racing across campus. These excursions weren’t just for fun—they encouraged students to navigate new environments together, practicing independence while leaning on one another in ways that built confidence and camaraderie.
Back on campus, the natural world became an open-air classroom. Mr. K’s bonsai project, which began in the greenhouse months ago, blossomed under the care of summer students. Trimming branches, planting seeds, and carefully watering each tree, students discovered the patience and mindfulness required to nurture something living. In marine biology, the pace quickened: students participated in a shark dissection, gaining hands-on insight into anatomy and the ecosystems of Long Island Sound.
Of course, no Connecticut summer would be complete without a little time by the water. Students tried their hand at blue crabbing in Old Lyme, spotting diamondback terrapins and catching small fish along the way. Other outings included a day at Six Flags and a fast-paced escape room adventure, where one student crew managed to solve the puzzles and “escape” in just 40 minutes.
The program also highlighted the importance of service and community. A student-led car wash and bake sale raised over $600 for Bryan Stevenson’s Equal Justice Initiative, combining teamwork with a cause that mattered. Ylana and Mr. Hayden led the effort, but the whole community pitched in to make the event a success.
Amid the excitement, quieter traditions grounded the days. Each morning, students had the option to begin with mindful meditation in the Brainerd Room. The practice provided a moment of calm and focus before the day’s activities. One particularly memorable morning featured Marcuz performing an original handpan composition, filling the space with music that resonated long after the notes faded.
In the classroom, Oxford’s reputation for innovative courses continued. Mr. Switaj’s History of Cuisine class gave students a window into world cultures through food. From chopping and sautéing to researching the stories behind each dish, the class culminated in a lively cook-off. Both teams impressed the judges, but Nae and Mackenzie’s creativity and presentation carried them to victory.
The final week closed on another note of hands-on discovery, as students donned bee suits for an afternoon in Oxford’s own apiary, harvesting honey and learning about the vital role pollinators play in our ecosystem.
By the time the program drew to a close, what had begun as a summer of activities had transformed into something deeper: a season of growth, exploration, and connection. Students left not only with sharpened academic skills, but also with new friendships, fresh perspectives, and a set of memories rooted in the unique blend of learning and adventure that Oxford Academy makes possible.
And while this summer has ended, the experience points toward the future. Next year’s Summer on the Shoreline promises even more opportunities to learn, grow, and explore in the supportive environment that makes Oxford Academy unique. For families looking for a program that blends personalized academics with enriching activities and unforgettable adventures, Oxford’s shoreline is the place to be.
