Hurley Students Hit the Slopes with YES

These 16 students from the Hurley School in Boston's South End loved getting out on the snow

In February 2026, 16 students from the Hurley School had the opportunity to experience the joy of skiing or snowboarding for the very first time. Equitable School Partnerships (ESP) of Boston worked with Youth Enrichment Services (YES) and Hurley staff to organize the trip, giving students a chance to spend the day outdoors and try something entirely new.

Youth Enrichment Services inspires young people through outdoor experiences and leadership opportunities that build confidence and prepare them to summit life’s challenges. Through their Operation Snowsports program, students travel to mountains across New England for a full day on the slopes. The program includes transportation, equipment, and a professional lesson, ensuring that beginners feel supported as they learn the basics before heading out to practice in the afternoon.

Accompanied by Hurley staff and YES instructors, the group spent a beautiful winter day at Crotched Mountain in New Hampshire. After their morning lessons, students were able to explore the mountain and build confidence with each run.

For many students, the trip was their first time visiting a ski mountain and their first experience with winter sports. One Hurley 5th grader summed up the experience best: 

“It was so much fun! The instructors were really helpful, and I’m glad I got to try it. I got all the gear I needed and felt like a pro. I can’t wait to do it again.”

By the end of the day, the group returned to Boston happy, tired, and proud to have learned a new skill.

Experiences like this are a powerful reminder that learning happens far beyond the classroom, and that new environments and challenges can build confidence, joy, and a sense of possibility. For ESP, opportunities like this are an important part of ensuring that all students have access to experiences that broaden horizons and open new possibilities.