Earlier this month, students—most of whom had no previous kayak experience—had the chance to learn beginner whitewater skills on a Connecticut River kayaking trip to nearby Sumner’s Falls, which is accessible from North Hartland, Vt. After some games and on-shore instruction that included basic paddle strokes, boat movement, and how to navigate rapids, the group set their nerves aside to try the boats, gamely navigating through the Class II water. The event was sponsored by the Outdoor Programs Office.