September 25, 2026

Freshmen Build Teamwork at 15th Annual Boot Camp

ANGOLA, NY – Freshmen at Lake Shore High School traded the classroom for the athletic fields on Friday, September 25, for the 15th annual Freshman Teambuilding Boot Camp. Under sunny skies, the Class of 2030 started the afternoon with lunch at the concession stand. Iron Mike and Aunt Karen of Connors Hot Dog Stand cooked up hot dogs, and students ate, snacked, and got to know each other before heading out in small groups.

Every 15 minutes, groups rotated to a new station. In the Blind Mine Field, blindfolded students crossed the field while classmates called out directions, then everyone grabbed a giant parachute and worked to move it together. On the Trust Me Obstacle Course, partners guided each other through while one wore a blindfold. In the Egyptian Roll, teams moved a kayak forward by rolling it across a line of pipes. Critical Thinking Riddles had small teams racing the clock for right answers. Students also sat in a Restorative Circle, taking turns to share and listen, the same practice they use in Freshman Seminar.

Days like this are part of how Lake Shore Central School District teaches kindness and community. These are not just ideas talked about in a hallway. Students practice them in class and in activities like Boot Camp, where they learn to listen, give clear directions, and look out for each other.

Thank you to Mr. Connors for organizing the day, and to the upperclass leadership students and teachers who ran every station and made it a day these freshmen will remember. A special thank you to Iron Mike, Aunt Karen, and Connors Hot Dog Stand for feeding the Class of 2030.