Home Overland Stories Teamwork & Leadership Leading in the Sierras

“I love middle schoolers! They are so goofy, energetic, and eager to learn.” Overland leader Tiana took a break from teaching in the classroom to lead Sierra Adventure last summer. 

 

In California, most of Tiana’s students were away from home for the first time. This trip was a new experience for many of her students, so Tiana and her co-leaders made it their top priority to create a safe environment that was both wholesome and challenging. 

Tiana recognized early on that each student was a key part of the group dynamic. There were vocal leaders, ambitious adventurers, enthusiastic encouragers, thoughtful observers, and passionate explorers. Each student had a major role that made their group strong like a family. 

 

 

Mt. Tallac is one of the tallest peaks in the mountains around Lake Tahoe, reaching 9,739 feet and Tiana’s group of twelve students began their ascent early in the morning. On the trail, Tiana encouraged each of her students by pointing out their strengths. Her students were thrilled to reach Cathedral Lake  – a marker that they have completed a large portion of the hike together. 

 

 

On the last pitch to the summit, Tiana’s students began to feel tired. This was the moment for teamwork and joy. Tiana brought the group together and utilized each of her student’s strengths. They traded backpacks to redistribute weight, shared snacks, and gave words of encouragement to one another. Reaching the summit of Mt. Tallac marked a tremendous accomplishment for the group. The students were the youngest people at the summit by a long shot and they were all proud that they had made it. Tiana couldn’t wipe the smile off her face as the group celebrated together and took in the view of a crystal blue Lake Tahoe below them.

 

 

After her summer in the Sierras, Tiana is back in the classroom teaching high school Spanish. Just as she did this summer with Overland, Tiana continues to pursue her passion for working with students to accomplish their goals and discover the outdoors. We’re excited to have Tiana, and other fabulous Overland leaders, with us this summer in 2022!