Dear Parents,
Welcome back to a new school year. If you are new to Ash Fork Middle School or a veteran parent, I would like to take the time to discuss team building with you. Team building is an integral part of Ash Fork Middle School and occurs once every quarter. The goal of team building is to provide all students with the opportunity to try new things that may be outside their comfort zone. As a school, we encourage these fun and challenging situations because it is only through difficulty that we grow and learn. For our first team-building activity, we will take the students on an easy hike to Slide Rock State Park. During these activities, students will have the opportunity to bond as they hike and swim.
Slide Rock State Park is located in Oak Creek Canyon on a 43-acre apple farm. The team building hike is 0.3 miles one way and 0.6 miles round trip, and will start near the apple packing barn. During the walk, your child can swim and slide in the pools found within Slide Rock State Park. The school will be providing lifejackets for students and lunch. If you would like to find more information about the trail, you can visit Slide Rock State Park | Arizona (azstateparks.com). Please read the following details so your child can enjoy the hike.
Slide Rock State Park Team Building Field Trip July 31, 2025
When: July 31, 2025
Itinerary: Please arrive at the school by 7:15 A.M. We will depart at 8:00 A.M. and return to school by 4:00 P.M., allowing your child to ride their regular school bus home.
Clothes: Your child will need two pairs of shoes, one for hiking and one for getting wet. No Crocs. The shoes must be closed-toed, and your child must wear socks while hiking. Sliding on the rocks within the park can rip clothing. Your child should wear shorts that are okay for sliding on the rocks. Your child should wear clothes that dry quickly when wet, or bring a dry pair of clothes for them to change into.
Other essential items: Ensure your child brings a trash bag for their wet items. Your child should also carry a backpack, water bottle, hat, and sunscreen.
Food: The school will be providing a sack lunch for your child. If they would like to bring a snack in addition to their lunch, they are welcome to do so. However, we ask that they bring no more than two additional snack items. There is also a small store on site where snacks can be purchased. If students bring money, they will be able to buy snacks at the store.
Contact: If you have any questions, contact Mrs. Broehm, Ms. Acosta, or Mr. Staples