High School Field School

Wanted: Enthusiastic teens to explore the science of the human past!

Become one of approximately 30 teens from around the country to take advantage of this unequaled opportunity to explore the exciting field of archaeology at Crow Canyon's High School Field School. During three extraordinary weeks, you'll learn about archaeology in an intensive, hands-on program, while contributing to Crow Canyon's ongoing research into the ancestral Pueblo (Anasazi) Indians of the Mesa Verde region.

The field school experience includes excavating beside professional archaeologists, analyzing real artifacts, recording data in the field and laboratory, and learning how archaeologists use a variety of data to reconstruct the past. In the pithouse and pueblo learning centers (buildings that replicate ancient Pueblo Indian dwellings), you can try your hand at fire-starting and throwing a spear with an atlatl. You'll also have the opportunity to learn from American Indians, who will provide their own perspectives on the history of the region.

The program is filled with field trips to archaeological sites in the area, study and discussion, time for reflection, and opportunities to make new friends. Weekends include hiking, rafting, and camping trips.

Educational Focus

Introduction to Pueblo Indian history, archaeology, and the scientific process.

Trip Dates and Cost

Dates: June 30–July 20, 2013

Tuition: Member* $4,500; Nonmember: $4,625

* Minimum $100 membership required. See Membership.

Information packet for parents and students (includes all required forms)

Deposit: $400

Balance due: Full amount is due May 17, 2013.
Cancellation at any time: $200 handling fee. Cancellation within 40 days of the program start date: forfeiture of all payments.

Activities

Sunday

Check out Web sites by former students!

2007 · 2006 · 2005 · 2001 · 1998

Students arrive at the Crow Canyon campus between 2 and 5 p.m. After settling into their rooms, they meet their educators, counselors, and fellow students, and then enjoy dinner and take part in an introductory program.

Week One

The week begins with an introduction to the history of the ancestral Pueblo Indians and a tour of our current excavation site. Students practice excavation and recording techniques in a simulated excavation, and in the laboratory, students learn how artifacts are processed, cataloged, analyzed, and prepared for curation. Within days, they will begin using their new skills, excavating in the field and working in the laboratory alongside professional archaeologists. During the first two weeks, students will engage in ancient Pueblo lifestyle activities such as spear-throwing with an atlatl, games, and fire-starting. The first week culminates with a visit to spectacular Mesa Verde National Park, a World Heritage site. River rafting and field trips are planned for the weekend.

Week Two

Working in the field and lab, students delve more deeply into archaeological methods, dendrochronology (tree-ring dating), and pottery typology (identifying changes in pottery styles over time). The weekend is spent camping in the canyons and mesas of the Four Corners country.

Week Three

This week, while continuing work in the field and lab, students examine the relevance of archaeology in today's world and learn about modern perspectives on archaeology, including those of American Indians. Throughout the week, students and staff discuss current research trends, career opportunities, and how technology has changed archaeological methodology. A graduation celebration gives Crow Canyon's staff a chance to thank students for their contributions and say goodbye.

Saturday

Students depart after a self-serve breakfast.

Schedule and activities subject to change.

Program Details

Tuition

Tuition covers accommodations, meals, entry fees and permits, and local transportation after the student's arrival in Cortez until the student's departure from Cortez. Transportation to and from Cortez is the responsibility of the student's parents.

Read about scholarships.

Application Information

Incoming high school sophomores through graduated seniors may attend; students must be 15 years old by program date. Transferable high school credit is available; see the information packet for parents and students for details. Graduated high school seniors may apply for two continuing education units from Adams State College for an additional fee.

After registering for the program and paying the deposit, you will need to fill out an application and other forms, which are available online in the information packet for the program. Materials required for the processing of your application include the following:

an essay written by you that explains why you want to participate in this program

a recommendation from a teacher

a comprehensive medical form and certificate of immunization (both signed by your physician)

Program and scholarship application deadline: April 19, 2013

Campus Life

Our 170-acre rural campus includes indoor and outdoor learning facilities, an archaeological laboratory, and a lodge (with dining hall). It's a peaceful place to relax, watch wildlife, walk through the woods, and enjoy panoramic mountain views from the rocking chairs on the lodge deck.

Students live in a coed dormitory, and they are fully supervised by chaperons. Their roommates are other students of the same sex; same-sex showers and restrooms are down the hall. All rooms have bunk beds—students must bring their own bedding and towels.

Three delicious, healthy meals are served each day. Hearty entrees, fresh fruits and vegetables, and a salad bar are standard fare, and most special diets can be accommodated.

Be sure to see Plan Your Visit to learn more about Crow Canyon and our campus.

Terms and Conditions

Go to Terms and Conditions for more information about tuition, cancellation and refund policies, and accommodations.

Reserve Your Spot in this Archaeology Adventure

It's easy to reserve your spot in High School Field School. If you want to sign up online now, click on the button at the top of this page. Or, you may call or e-mail the registrar at 970.564.4346 (toll-free 800.422.8975, ext. 146), e-mail summercamp@crowcanyon.org.

Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California
CST 2059347-50

The Crow Canyon Archaeological Center's programs and admission practices are open to applicants of any race, color, nationality, ethnic origin, gender, or sexual orientation.