Last Thursday, our UBC-WKTEP teacher candidates had their first field trip to these small villages in the Slocan Valley. Working in small groups, they explored the histories, cultures, and landscapes of the these unique communities as a way to discover the principles of place-conscious teaching with their instructor, Dr. Linda Farr Darling, Eleanor Rix Professor of Rural Teacher Education. The citizens of New Denver and Silverton were happy to engage with the class and share their perspectives on life and learning in a rural setting. Many thanks to them and Terry Taylor, Superintendent of SD 10 (Arrow Lakes) and WKTEP instructor, whose hospitality and insights were greatly appreciated by all.