We can all remember the sights and smells of an elementary field trip we experienced as a child; the bus ride, pairing up with buddies, and observing learning come to life in real time. Experiential learning is a tool to increase engagement and strengthen students' ability to internalize learning. Growing research highlights the positive impact experiential learning can have on student performance, which is why the Lower School makes it a priority to incorporate multiple field trips throughout the year. 

Field trips not only support social development with peers and teachers, but they also have a significant impact on academics. Studies have shown groups with more real-world experiences performed better on end-of-unit assessments. Field trips allow for the curriculum to come to life, deepening student understanding and contributing to the development of critical thinking skills as they observe the world around them with a focused goal in mind. 

Students visit farms, explore all our zoo has to offer, hunt through museums, and investigate national parks. From exploring our community in Pre-K to walking the same ground as those who came before us at historic landmarks in 4th grade, our students are consistently given opportunities to observe, analyze, make connections, ask questions, and collaborate. 

- Christa Agee, Lower School Assistant Principal