Making an Impact from A to Z
At Oakland International High School, teacher Joseph Gapuz has taken an innovative approach to teaching science with his Physics of Rock Climbing class. The course blends physics and physical education credits, giving students both a challenging athletic experience and a deeper understanding of STEM concepts.
The class was funded by an Oakland Public Education Fund A to Z mini-grant, supported in part by community partner Touchstone Climbing and dozens of volunteers.
“Over the last two years of this program, our school has found success getting students engaged in a new sport while also connecting with STEM content in the classroom,” said Gapuz.
Students were introduced to climbing through hands-on practice and classroom exploration. They learned the basics of climbing techniques, safety protocols and how to use belay equipment. At the same time, physics labs brought key concepts such as friction, force and equilibrium to life using climbing ropes, carabiners and real-world scenarios.
One highlight of the course was a student-designed climbing wall. Working together, students applied geometry and construction skills to plan routes with varying difficulty levels. The class challenged them to connect physics with creativity, teamwork and physical movement.
Throughout the year, students also analyzed force and motion during climbs, studied how body movement affects balance and applied STEM knowledge to improve their climbing. The course culminated in capstone projects, with teams creating videos or presentations illustrating the physics of climbing and reflecting on their learning experience.
The program’s impact goes beyond the classroom. Equipment and supplies can be reused year after year, ensuring long-term benefits, Gapuz said. Students also spent full days climbing in Berkeley — an experience that would not have been possible without the A to Z mini-grant.
“Our goal was for students to leave the class with enthusiasm for climbing sports and the confidence that they have the knowledge to keep pursuing this sport,” said Gapuz.
Helping Teachers Spark Learning Opportunities from A to Z
The Oakland Ed Fund’s A to Z Fund gives teachers the extra boost they need to bring learning to life. Through mini-grants, educators can fund projects that often don’t make it into school budgets — such as field trips, art projects, sports programs and professional development that inspires new ideas in the classroom.
This special fund exists thanks to the generosity of hundreds of donors, companies, local foundations and parent-teacher organizations who believe in the power of teachers and the dreams of Oakland students.
You can be part of the story by supporting the A to Z Fund and helping teachers create unforgettable learning opportunities.
Learn more about our A to Z Fund Program.
