Student Travel Planning Guide 2023

EMPOWERING GIRLS THROUGH TRAVEL

Embracing the benefits of travel both near and far

EXPLORING

CENTRAL FLORIDA THEME PARKS

THE FUTURE OF STUDENT TRAVEL

Tour operators discuss the return of travel

High-flying thrills help students engage in exciting and unique learning experiences

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If there’s an overarching theme to this issue of Student Travel Planning Guide , it’s one of, well, normalcy. And after the last few years, normal has never sounded so good.

To get a true sense of the current pulse of student travel, we went to the source: student tour operators. The overall feeling was even better than we had hoped.

“After a challenging couple of years as an industry, we are thrilled about the current state of student travel,” says Katie Conaway, Director of Marketing at Global Travel Alliance. “There are certainly impacts to the industry that we are navigating, but overall, we feel positive about the direction and look forward to the coming years.”

Schools are definitely traveling again.

Still trying to decide on the best travel experience for your students? We have you covered with an article on language-focused trips plus one on the top five Central Florida theme parks. Once your destination is set, we can offer advice on choosing a chaperone and the latest technology. And just because we can travel that doesn’t mean you have to forgo access to learning opportunities. Check out “Virtual Field Trips Continue to Shine” for some awesome options.

For more student travel ideas, we also offer an insider’s look at some unique attractions and cities around the country that go above and beyond when it comes to school trips, and focused programming and itineraries. From a Philadelphia museum specializing in illusions and a multitude of activities in Arlington, Texas, to a thoughtful itinerary guide to the magic of Mississippi, Student Travel Planning Guide is here to help.

And for those of you who might be asking if a trip this year is worth the effort, Kristin Tews, director of development/sponsorship for non-profit Female Strong, provides an answer. “Travel at a young age allows children and young adults to know what is possible. Travel lets children understand all the different ways we can live and the opportunities that are available in the local and world community.” See what else Kristin has to say in “Empowering Girls Through Travel.”

We are proud to bring you this year’s digital edition of Student Travel Planning Guide. It’s an honor to share the virtues of student travel. We hope you share this resource with your fellow educators. Also, make sure to visit StudentTravelPlanningGuide.com for more insider info and engaging itineraries.

Part inspiration, part tactical business planning, Traveling Tribes helps readers discover the world of group travel and guides them along the journey of leading their own tribe of travelers on expeditions around town or around the globe.

Safe Travels, Lisa Shames

Photo courtesy of SeaWorld Orlando

The Manta rollercoaster at SeaWorld Orlando

FEATURES

10 Empowering Girls Through Travel

Female Strong’s Kristin Tews talks confidence-building for young women and the benefits of travel, both near and far

13 The Future of Travel

To get a clear picture of the state of student travel, we asked those who know best: tour operators

16 Virtual Field Trips Continue to Shine

A unique, cost-effective way to engage students in nearly any subject matter, virtual field trips offer access to opportunities across the country and the world

18 Planning

First Language Immersion Trip

Your

What you need to know to ensure your students get the most out of their language immersion trip

22 The Definitive Guide to Parent Chaperones

Whether it’s your first time recruiting a parent chaperone for your next field trip or your 20th, this complete guide has you covered with all the do’s and don’ts

24 Exploring Outstanding Theme Parks in Central Florida

Home to the “Theme Park Capital of the World,” Central Florida has no shortage of opportunities for student groups. High-flying thrills combined with unique educational programs shoot these parks to the top of our list for student travel

28 The Latest Tech & Apps for Student Travel

6 apps to help you plan your next student trip

In the Ames Room of Philadelphia’s Museum of Illusions, visitors appear to grow and shrink as they walk from one corner of the room to the other.

Photo courtesy of Museum

Student AdventuresGroupAwait

EXPERIENCE UNIQUE AND MEMORABLE ATTRACTIONS

THE STEM OF MISSISSIPPI’S GULF COAST

SAVORING A PIECE OF STATE HISTORY

THE STEM OF MISSISSIPPI’S GULF COAST

Day 1

There are few places better than Mississippi’s Gulf Coast for exploring the STEM disciplines of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Ecology is a large part of the Gulf, and students will be immersed in this science at numerous stops on this itinerary. Commercial fishing and seafood are important to the area’s economy, and students will see advances that have been made in boatbuilding and harvesting. Technology and mathematics also are on full display throughout your student tour.

Arrive in Biloxi at the Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum . Plan to spend 75 minutes on a guided tour. Grand Hall features the Nydia Exhibit, a two-mast sailboat built in Biloxi Shipyard during 1898. Grand Hall and the museum’s Wooden Boat Gallery provide insight into the engineering of boat design. The Environmental Gallery takes a serious look at the Mississippi Coastal Wetlands. The Commercial Fishing Gallery and the Biloxi Seafood Factory galleries highlight the technology of the past.

Treat yourself to a boxed lunch from a nearby local sandwich shop before a 2.5-hour sail on the Biloxi Schooner , a replica of a Biloxi oyster schooner.

Check in at one of the numerous Mississippi Gulf Coast student-friendly hotels. Tonight, it’s dinner at Fat Bottom BBQ in Biloxi.

Day 2

Breakfast at your hotel before departure for the Mississippi Aquarium. The aquarium’s indoor/outdoor campus features both fresh- and salt-water habitats with more than 200 aquatic animal species. At 11:45 a.m., continue your visit with a behind-the-scenes guided tour. Learn the science of providing daily care for the animals and how the engineering of equipment that handles one million gallons of water is managed.

At the Gulfport Small Craft Harbor in Jones

Park, board the American Clipper for a 90-minute guided eco-cruise with Mississippi Aquarium staff. Study the ecology of the Gulf of Mexico and the considerable conservation work being undertaken by the aquarium’s scientists and partners.

Next, it’s on to Moss Point and the Pascagoula River Audubon Center, a nature preserve. A two-hour program with an educator can cover any of nine field trip themes. Most popular of the STEM programs are Water and Water Science and Weather and Climate Change.

Day 3

Breakfast at your hotel and check out. Arrive at the William M. Colmer Visitor Center at Gulf Islands National Seashore’s Davis Bayou Area in Ocean Springs. Explore indoor exhibits and watch a video about the history of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. After departing the Visitor Center, check out the Davis Bayou South Trailhead, which provides access to the Civilian Conservation Corps Spur Trail and Nature’s Way Loop Trail. Allow for 30-60 minutes on the trails. Grab an early lunch on your way to INFINITY Science Center. With a mission of being a life-changing experience for teachers and students, INFINITY Science Center focuses on inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers and mathematicians. Allow two hours to follow the educational exhibits and view a 3D immersive video. Classroom materials are available for teachers.

INFINITY Science Center Rockets Display Pascagoula River Audubon Center

Photo courtesy of INFINITY Science Center

SAVORING A PIECE OF STATE HISTORY

Day 1

Mississippi has been central to our nation’s history for centuries. Learn about prehistoric Mississippi and the ancients that once lived here. Explore the state’s role in the civil rights movement for justice and equality at two state-ofthe-art museums. Immerse yourself in Mississippi’s rich music history and heritage. Discover the impact the Great River had on Mississippi life and commerce. In the “key” city of Vicksburg, learn about the Civil War battle that broke the South’s back.

Arrive at Jackson at the Medgar and Myrlie Evers Home National Monument. Learn about the event that brought about the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Medgar had a prominent role in the civil rights movement.

George’s Museum Café at the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum is a popular lunch spot serving cafeteria-style fare.

Begin your afternoon with a stop at the Old Capitol Museum, which served as Mississippi’s statehouse from 1839 until 1903. While the museum has been restored to its original splendor, modern interactive multimedia exhibits tell the building’s history and events that took place there.

Check-in at your Jackson host hotel. Tonight, it’s a Pizza Party at Sal & Mookie’s New York Pizza & Ice Cream Joint.

Day 2

Breakfast and hotel checkout.

Mississippi’s rich music history is on full display at Malaco Music Group. Known as “The Last Soul Company,” Malaco Music Group has been the leading independent recorder of contemporary Southern R&B, soul and gospel since 1968. The studio is available for your group’s history-making recording debut.

Much of Mississippi’s history can be seen at the Mississippi Museum of Art and its Mississippi Art & Artist Gallery. Guided student tours by an MMA Teaching Fellow can be formatted to your particular curriculum need.

Lunch is at Cultivation Food Hall. More than half a dozen vendors feature everything from wraps, salads and hoagies at Midland Bistro to Southern and American classics at Uncle Ray’s. Students will experience prehistoric Mississippi to the present day at the Museum of Mississippi History and Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, also known as Two Mississippi Museums. Standards of learning are emphasized for grades 3-6 and 7-12. Depart for nearby Ridgeland and enjoy dinner at Cock of the Walk, a Mississippi original with a menu of Southern favorites.

Continue to Vicksburg and check-in at your hotel.

Day 3

Breakfast and hotel checkout.

At the Jesse Brent Lower Mississippi River Museum and Interpretive Center, you’ll see how the Mighty Mississippi has impacted lives and trade over time. The museum is filled with interactive exhibits.

Next is a visit to Vicksburg’s most historic building, the Old Courthouse Museum. A National Historic Landmark, the museum is filled with items of historical significance, including a Civil War collection believed to be the largest in the South.

Lunch is at McAlister’s Deli, known for its handcrafted sandwiches and oversized spuds.

Vicksburg National Military Park preserves the site where a great Civil War battle was fought from March 25 to July 4, 1863. A licensed battlefield guide is available to provide an in-depth tour. Visit the park’s monuments, memorials and USS Cairo Museum.

Mississippi Civil Rights Museum

Vicksburg National Military Park

A tour of Mi i ippi does more than just take you places. It moves you .

In Mississippi, student groups can discover some of the important and meaningful places and stories in American history. Explore the Vicksburg National Military Park, the site of a 47-day siege that sealed the fate of the Civil War. Learn about key people, places, and events in civil rights history at the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum in Jackson. Or visit Longwood, the largest octagonal home in the United States, and uncover the fascinating story that left the historic home unfinished to this day. Plan your itinerary at VisitMississippi.org/StudentTour.

#WanderMS

Longwood | Natchez, Mississippi

EMPOWERING GIRLS THROUGH TRAVEL

Female Strong’s Kristin Tews talks confidence-building for young women and the benefits of travel, both near and far

By Lisa Shames

Photo courtesy of Female Strong

In its most basic definition, travel is simply a journey. But there’s nothing basic about the benefits of venturing out of your comfort zone, whether nearby in your own backyard or many miles away, can provide. Engaging with different cultures, exploring unfamiliar surroundings and embracing new adventures allows us to gain an appreciation of and respect for different points of view and ways of life, teaching us about ourselves and each other in the process.

And exposure to travel early in life helps build valuable skills that can last forever.

“Travel at a young age allows children and young adults to know what is possible,” says Kristin Tews. “Travel lets children to understand all the different ways we can live and the opportunities that are available in the local and world community.”

CREATING TRAVEL OPPORTUNITIES FOR GIRLS

for women in the workplace today.

“The gender gap begins at a very young age for girls,” says Tews. “By providing targeted education to young women from the age 8 through high school, we can address these issues and build confidence, so they build on the skillset to reach for and achieve the same access to strong personal and career advancement and close the gender gap.”

A big part of Female Strong’s work has involved building community awareness that confidence in young women is an issue in the first place and that it is resolvable. By creating programming for hundreds of girls, the impact has been powerful with many of their candidates taking these skills to college and beyond.

Some of those programs include a one-day “Idea Camp,” a student ambassador program and book clubs.

HOW TO EMPOWER GIRLS THROUGH TRAVEL

For Tews, travel is another important way to empower girls. “Education in the classroom is imperative and life experience is also imperative but seeing the communities ‘firsthand’ allows them to relate and build relationships with people outside of their inner circle,” says Tews. “Mentorship happens both with personal connection but also with observation, which travel provides.”

Travel, at any age, provides us with valuable life lessons, broadening our horizons through

As director of development/ sponsorship for Female Strong, Tews knows a thing or two about creating opportunities for young adults. Based in Chicago, Female Strong is non-profit organization and a community of committed individuals that offers handson programs, mentorship and experiences that build confidence in middle and high school girls. The organization supports all girl, trans, gender-fluid and non-binary youth by empowering them with the skills they need early in life, equipping them to realize their potential, and preempt the inequities that exist Participants at Female

Strong’s YEA! Chicago Entrepreneur Girls program

Photo courtesy of Female Strong

exposure to different cultures and traditions, allowing us to celebrate both our similarities and our differences.

“We believe in community travel first,” says Tews. “Sometimes just going in your own backyard community to see the different ways people work and live is very impactful. We create programming where girls are involved in different areas of the community to share and learn with local mentors. Traveling is a great way to learn and create aspirations for change.”

TRAVEL TIPS FOR GIRLS

Now that we’ve determined the value of traveling for young adults, what are some tips to ensure they get the most out of their travel?

“First off,” says Tews, “they need to be open to new experiences. Perhaps that can start first in the classroom with an initial immersion into the history, culture and gastronomy of the area they will be exploring.”

Equally important is to think about the people and how the opportunities or lack thereof affect their everyday life. Important

questions to ask beforehand, says Tews, include How do you want to change the world and What do you want to see more in the world.

“When young women have the opportunity to travel outside the state or country, this is another way they can learn from others. Travel is a wonderful way to become more knowledgeable through experiences,” says Tews. “The best empowerment is knowledge and knowledge is power.”

For more information on Female Strong, visit femalestrong.org ■

The Entrepreneurship Program for Girls is about building the skills and confidence for girls to thrive in business and life.

Photo courtesy of Female Strong

THE FUTURE OF STUDENT TRAVEL

To get a clear picture of the state of student travel, we asked those who know best: tour operators

By Lisa Shames

To say the last few years have been a bit rocky is an understatement. But positive changes are on the rise — and that goes for the travel industry too. According to the Skift Research’s State of Travel 2022 report, globally the travel industry is nearing full recovery and is just 15% below 2019

levels. Even better is U.S. passenger movement, which is back to 95% of 2019 levels, according to data from the Transportation Security Administration.

So, what does that mean for student travel? Plenty say the tour operator experts we spoke with.

“After a challenging couple of years

as an industry, we are thrilled about the current state of student travel,” says Katie Conaway, Director of Marketing at Global Travel Alliance. “There are certainly impacts to the industry that we are navigating, but overall, we feel positive about the direction and look forward to the coming years.”

Brian Nowak, President of Nowak Tours, is feeling optimistic too. “We had a very good year in 2022 and 2023 looks to surpass and be one of the best yet. Schools are traveling again, and many are making up trips for those who missed during the pandemic.”

That’s a sentiment echoed by Keith Snode, COO of Kaleidoscope Adventures, who says that 2022 was a year of growth for them, albeit with a limited focus on destinations with most groups traveling to southern U.S. destinations. This year, however, he is seeing a return to some normalization with many groups back to traveling to other U.S. destinations as well as Ireland, the UK and Europe.

For Michael Embrey, National Festival Director of FunME Events, the return of student travel has been a bit slower. “A lot of performance groups have declined in numbers due to the Covid mandate of allowing students to be together,” he says. “This will take two to three years to rebuild music and art programs

back to the numbers in 2019, while funding will remain the big concern.”

After the complete shutdown of student travel in 2020, Dr. Michael A. Mazzarisi, President of Performing Arts Consultants, saw the desire to travel return for performing group directors but not much support from school administrations or communities. In 2022, he saw student performing groups receive approval to resume travel once again but not to all destinations. And now?

“It’s 2023 and our student cruise programs have jumped from 0 in 2022 to over 30 groups on ships alone,” says Mazzarisi. “All our music festivals and dance programs are now taking place in all major cities, with New York City leading the way.”

OVERCOMING THE NEW CHALLENGES OF STUDENT TRAVEL

That’s not to say there haven’t been and continue to be challenges.

“The cost of goods and services has increased dramatically limiting the experiences for some groups,” says Embrey. Those increases include

hotel rates, theaters, shows, special events and transportation costs. Additionally, he says, manpower is an issue. “The challenges of finding the sales reps for hotels, attractions and other venues has delayed in getting bids and pricing. Some Convention and Visitors Bureaus [CVB] and Destination Marketing Organizations have changed leadership creating a networking problem, with select organizations dropping the tour and travel area of the CVB.”

DEALING WITH INCREASES IN TRANSPORTATION COSTS

To combat the increase in transportation, Nowak has been encouraging clients to travel in the off season and even earlier in the week when buses are more readily available. “We have been giving customers more options on ways to cut cost,” he says.

Snode has found some ways to address transportation issues as well, including booking earlier and managing the coaches they have already booked to ensure

MICHAEL A. MAZZARISI, Performing Arts Consultants KATIE CONAWAY, Global Travel Alliance

KEITH SNODE, Kaleidoscope Adventures

MICHAEL EMBREY, FunME Events

they utilize them all. He’s also seen a large shift in groups who have them collect the funds from individual passengers instead of group pay as was done extensively prior to the pandemic. “This has caused us to re-work our team to ensure we can meet that demand,” he says. “We have also upgraded to new technology extensively to help with this change and ensure we can still deliver a consistent product for our customers.”

For Conaway, the change in prices has meant carefully assessing necessary budget increases and balancing those with keeping travel accessible to student and families. Additionally, her company is investing in strategic partnerships and continuing to expand their network to deliver the best travel experiences at competitive rates.

STUDENT TRAVEL GROWTH

Those challenges, however, have led to a rebirth of sorts in oncepopular destinations in the student travel sector that had lost some

of their sheen. “We are extremely excited about reinventing new destinations and rekindling other destinations that were once a student tour option,” says Embrey, adding that cities like Denver and St. Louis now offer affordable options while also providing unique student experiences. He’s also seen special events helping to provide experiences and travel options for some school groups.

Mazzarisi agrees: “Smaller cities are now receiving more recognition than in the past.”

Overseas travel is also getting some traction now due to domestic inflation.

“Groups are finding that if they are going to pay higher rates for domestic travel, they should at least research an overseas trip,” says Snode. “Often, they are finding the cost isn’t that much higher and so bookings in this area are increasing dramatically. People are seeking a high value experience for their travel dollar and that idea is even more relevant today than it was in 2019.”

Another positive shift in student travel, says Nowak, has been schools doing more intimate trips. “While 8th grade educational and high school band trips are most common, we are seeing some schools do smaller class trips,” he says. “Maybe an honors history class does a trip to Williamsburg, Philadelphia and then a more focused Washington DC trip.”

And don’t be surprised to see more student groups doing nonschool-sponsored trips in the future, although that comes with a caveat, says Snode. “Making sure we have the processes and infrastructure to help them plan a seamless, easy experience is going to be key to our continued success.”

One thing that hasn’t changed is the importance of shared, in-person experiences. If anything, says Conaway, it’s been amplified.

“Based on the pent-up demand and interest in new destinations, we predict continued growth and focus on these impactful life-changing experiences,” Conaway says. ■

While 8th grade educational and high school band trips are most common, we are seeing some schools do smaller class trips. Maybe an honors history class does a trip to Williamsburg, Philadelphia and a more focused DC trip.

BRIAN NOWAK, President, Nowak Tours

VIRTUAL FIELD TRIPS

A unique, cost-effective way to engage students in nearly any subject matter, virtual field trips offer access to opportunities across the country and the world

By Courtney Lind

Virtual field trips took hold during the height of the pandemic as a way for museums, attractions and learning centers, to name a few, to continue providing quality educational opportunities to students. Not only did this provide diversity to day-to-day of online teaching, but it also served as a way to give students access

to educational opportunities that may not have been possible to experience in person due to financial or geographical constraints.

Although travel restrictions have eased and in-person field trips are back, we’ve come to realize the power of virtual field trips and just how enriching they can be for today’s students. They

are a convenient, cost-effective way to explore our country and learn about different cultures, environments and historical events. Added bonus: All of this can be done without leaving the classroom. A history student in California can immerse themselves in Colonial Williamsburg and understand how buildings were constructed and artifacts

preserved. A STEM student in in Maine can tour the National Museum of the United States Air Force with a 360-degree tour to learn about the history of the Air Force and major battles and inventions of the past.

The opportunities are endless and offer educators a chance to get creative when it comes to planning a virtual field trip. And best of all, virtual field trips are available for nearly every subject matter area you can think of, making these great add-ons to any curriculum.

STEAM VIRTUAL FIELD TRIPS

A new addition to the virtual field trip scene comes from a partnership between the Country Music Association and Discovery Education. Country Music’s Biggest Night: STEAM Takes the Spotlight is a virtual field trip for middle and high school students that showcases how STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) drives innovation in country music. Students will hear from professionals with diverse skillsets across on how they help make the CMA Awards a reality. It’s a great insight into the work that goes into any large-scale production and showcases a variety of STEAM careers, inspiring students along the way.

VIRTUAL FIELD TRIP TO THE PRO FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME

Students don’t need to be football players to enjoy the award winning virtual field trip program offered by the Pro Football Hall of Fame. There are nearly 20 virtual programs

aligned with Common Core/ National Standards of Education, all available online. “Women in Football” looks at the influence women have had on the NFL; “Movement & Motion” spotlights the science of the sport and all the physics that go into it; “Visual Art and the Hall of Fame Experience” explores the architectural features of the museum to help students learn about what goes into presenting art to the public. These are just a few of the stellar virtual offerings, and the Hall of Fame’s virtual field trip program has received international recognition as a Pinnacle Award winner through the Center for Interactive Learning and Collaboration (CILC).

IHUB VIRTUAL FIELD TRIP OPTIONS

An iconic museum known across the world, The Henry Ford showcases U.S. culture, inventions and people, inspiring the next generation while learning from the past. An exciting virtual offering is iHub, which leverages primary

sources from The Henry Ford Archive of American Innovation®, providing educators with worldclass resources for students. Both free and premium memberships are available with access to hundreds of lesson plans, webinars, digital assets and virtual field trips for grades 3-12. Students can solve problems like famous engineers Lonnie Johnson and McKinley Thompson Jr.; collaborate and problem-solve like the racing teams of the Indy 500; and learn about innovation from Rosa Parks and the Wright Brothers. These are just a few of the exciting opportunities available from iHub that students are sure to love.

Virtual field trips have the power to transport students across the nation or even across the world thanks to the power of technology. What was originally created out of necessity during unprecedented times has now become a staple in the educational community. We invite you to explore more virtual field trip opportunities available on our website. ■

Planning Your First LANGUAGE IMMERSION TRIP

What you need to know to ensure your students get the most out of their language immersion trip

By Lisa Shames

For most students, learning a foreign language is hard work. But what if there was a way to make it easier and, dare we say, fun? Enter language immersion trips where for the majority of the day, students are spending time learning, hearing and speaking in a language other than their native tongue. The benefits of language immersion at an early age are plenty, according to the Center for Applied Linguistics in Washington, DC, including enhancing children’s brain development, expanding their cultural awareness, helping them think more flexibly and increasing job opportunities later in life.

At Travel for Teens, language-focused trips are a part of the more than 100 different programs in some 46 countries that they offer. Since 2003, this family-run company has focused on sharing their passion for travel with teens from around the country. To learn more about language immersion programs, we spoke with Jayden Korber, a program consultant at Travel for Teens.

WHAT AGE ARE LANGUAGE TRIP PARTICIPANTS?

We do any age from 7th grade to senior year, which would be 13 to 18 years old.

Photo courtesy of Travel For Teens

If teachers reach out to us, we will set up a meeting between them and our school trip coordinator. It will be someone from the operations side — the paperwork, how many kids do they want, etc. — and someone who will go over what they want out of this program and what experience are the kids looking for. That’s where we get to build the trip from the ground up: destination, activities, accommodations.

JAYDEN KORBER, program consultant for Travel for Teens

Classrooms take on a different look when studying in Costa Rica as part of a Travel For Teens language immersion program.

ARE THESE TEACHER-LED SCHOOL TRIPS OR

MADE UP OF INDIVIDUAL STUDENTS?

We do both. We partner with teachers, and we will build a whole customized itinerary for them. Additionally, in the summer we have open enrollment, which are like camp programs but abroad with everything from 7 days up to 40.

WHAT LANGUAGES AND DESTINATIONS ARE MOST POPULAR?

Most of our language immersion trips are Costa Rica, Spain and France. Those are the ones people love and come back for year after year. This year, all those programs, except for France, are completely sold out. Most of our language programs are 18 students and up to 24 max. If we do a private program, we can do anything from 10 up to 40. We do a ratio of 8 to 1 of kids to staff members.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TEACHERS INTERESTED IN DOING A LANGUAGE IMMERSION TRIP?

If they reach out to us, we will set up a meeting between them and our school trip coordinator. It will be someone from the operations side — the paperwork, how many kids do they want, etc. — and someone who will go over what they want out of this program and what experience are the kids looking for. That’s where we get to build the trip from the ground up: destination, activities, accommodations. After that, we will send over a sample itinerary and see how they like it and then from there we will start moving on to setting everything up with the parents.

WHAT MAKES A GREAT LANGUAGE IMMERSION TRIP?

First is that the language instruction is individualized. It’s hard to find group of kids that all have the same level. Also, it’s important the kids feel safe and are having fun. Yes, the program is about language and practicing, but you learn best when you’re having fun and immersed in the culture. We will have our classes in the morning, but then we go out and do activities. Having that element of engagement and experiential education while you’re learning the language really puts these programs over the top.

WHAT ARE SOME BENEFITS OF DOING AN IMMERSION TRIP LIKE THIS?

We’ve had a lot of kids tell us, I’ve taken 2 years of Spanish classes and I learned more in these 14 days then I did back home. The benefit is getting them talking to local people and interacting with the culture as well as the language. It imbeds it in their heads and gives them experiences.

WHAT ARE SOME COMMON LANGUAGE IMMERSION TRIP MISCONCEPTIONS?

A lot of families come into it thinking it is going to be strict, and you can only speak Spanish, for example, the whole time. But really it is a lot more hands on than that.

WHAT COUNTRY CRITERIA SHOULD TEACHERS CONSIDER?

First, is to figure out where they are interested in. We want to build trips for people that want to go to these places. The affordability aspect is huge to us. A lot of times programs like this can be unattainable to a large group of the population. With our school trips, we try to make them super affordable and doable for the families.

IS THERE AN IDEAL LENGTH OF TIME?

Most of our school programs are about 10 days, but we can do anything. This year we have school trips running from 7 days to two weeks. In terms of group dynamics on day 3, you hit this flow, where

Paragliding in Annecy, France, as part of a Travel For Teens travel program.

Photo courtesy of Travel For Teens

everyone is comfortable with the leaders of the trip, the food and speaking the language. After that day 3, you still have a week where everyone is settled down, over the jet lag, confident and ready to go.

HOW CAN TEACHERS PREPARE THEIR STUDENTS FOR A LANGUAGE IMMERSION TRIP?

One thing that is huge is having the teachers go over before where they’re going to go, including the history and culture. That builds this excitement where the kids are on the edge of their seats. The trip really starts the moment they sign up.

WHAT ABOUT TIPS WHEN THEY’RE ON THE LANGUAGE IMMERSION TRIP?

We preference every trip with this big speech of rules, but we keep it fun. Whenever we are doing an activity or engaging with each other and out in the public, we ask the kids not to be on their phones. We stay busy on these trips, so there’s not much time where they would want to be on their phones. We always make sure there’s an hour at end of day where they can call home, decompress and have some rest time. For the most part, we really do everything we can to get everyone fully engaged in the program, so they get the most out of it. The other big part is our counselors take a ton of photos of them on our trips. We are taking the photos, so they can just engage in what they are doing.

WAS GETTING THEM OFF THEIR PHONES HARD INITITALLY?

It’s easier than you think because the

kids are so engaged. It’s cool to see kids today, who are always on their phones and who grew up with their phones, in an environment where you don’t have to tell them that much to get off them. Of course, every once in a while, we have a kid who’s really attached to their phone. We will bring parents in and get to the bottom of how we can help them enjoy the trip the most. It’s not a disciplinary thing; rather it’s getting to the root of it, whether it’s social anxiety or homesickness.

ONCE HOME, WHAT ARE SOME TIPS TO ENSURE STUDENTS CONTINUE TO GET THE MOST OUT OF THEIR TRIP? What a lot of the teachers will do is include what they learned on the program in the classroom. They will have them pull up a photo from that market in Paris and tell the class about what they purchased, what they ate and how it tasted. Having that element of sharing, maybe with some kids who didn’t get to go on the program, is great. And then re-establishing that learning they already did on the ground whenever

Travel for Teens language immersion programs make for great memories and improved language skills.

they get back home. The trip doesn’t end because you can now convey all your experiences in the language that you learned.

IF SOMEONE WASN’T SURE ABOUT DOING A LANGUAGE IMMERSION TRIP, WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO THEM?

I would say it’s really going to benefit the students and give them the gift of being able to speak with people from another culture. It’s about drawing the bridge between what they learn in the classroom, why they’re learning it and what does it mean in the real world. Languages live through the people who speak them. Making that connection for kids instills a passion to want to learn more and get better at the language and to keep on traveling. Above and beyond the language skills they learn, just exposing them to the world so that they can see people who live differently from them. Also, for them to see that the world is a big, beautiful place that’s not so scary is a huge part of getting them connected to be global citizens. ■

Photo courtesy of Travel For Teens

The Definitive Guide to

PARENT CHAPERONES

Whetherit’s your first time recruiting a parent chaperone for your next field trip or your 20 th , this complete guide has you covered with all the do’s and don’ts

By Lisa Shames

Field trips are often some of the most anticipated days of the school year for students but can sometimes be a source of anxiety for teachers and organizers. We get it; finding a great chaperone isn’t easy. Plan a better field trip for everyone by employing parent chaperones and watch your hectic day transform into an unforgettable experience not only for students, but for any adults who tag along for the ride.

RECRUITING CHAPERONES DO’S

• Start recruiting early as most parents’ schedules are busy, especially during the week.

• Send out a mass email or letter home with students with the date of the field trip far in advance. This allows parents to take off work and plan accordingly.

• Encourage parent participation by describing the trip in detail.

• Know what qualifications and expectations you have in advance which will eliminate any hard

feelings while ensuring the best possible trip experience for everyone.

• Highlight the educational and recreational benefits of the event and how the parents can be directly involved in their child’s learning.

TEACHERS DO’S FOR CHAPERONES

• Make sure your chaperones are dressed appropriately and remind them to arrive with all the necessary field trip essentials (including a lunch, if not provided).

• Print out schedule/itinerary for

the day, as well as any maps or directions needed.

• If students are required to complete an assignment, provide chaperones with that homework.

• Provide chaperones with your contact information in case of emergency.

• Provide chaperones with a short description of each child: name, hair color and color of clothing will all help chaperones keep an eye on each child and better track down a lost student.

• Make chaperones feel more welcome by introducing them to each other and encouraging parent involvement once you reach your field trip destination – parents should not be bystanders.

• Post-trip be sure to properly thank your chaperones by sending a thank-you note home with their child within a week after the outing along with any photos that were taken. Chaperoning should be more than just herding students around; it should be a way for parents to connect with their child’s education and experience the interactive learning.

TRIP CHAPERONE DO’S

• Ensure there are enough adult chaperones going with you. The number needed relates directly to how many students are going, but there should never be less than two adults per group.

• Do make sure to keep groups as small as possible. Even the most organized of chaperones can feel a little overwhelmed with a herd of children to look after, especially if the field trip venue is large and

crowded. Keep groups to under 10 students per chaperone.

• Assign parent chaperones to groups with their child, which will make the day more fun for them both. Children are more likely to behave when their parents are around.

• Within groups, assign student partners to increase students’ accountability and minimize the chance of losing someone.

• When taking attendance throughout the day, ask students to give their partner a high-five. That way, a child’s absence is more likely to be noticed.

• If the trip is mixed gender, make sure there is at least one adult for each.

DON’T

• When choosing chaperones, the most important piece of advice to remember is don’t worry about hurting feelings. Parent chaperone choices should be based on which individuals would make the best chaperone – not which parent emails you the most or the nicest parent of the bunch.

TIPS

• Safety of the group and the logistics of the trip should be the top priority, so the most responsible parents are the best choices as well as the parents who maintain a positive attitude no matter the situation. If all willing chaperones are equally qualified, picking names out of a hat is the best method.

• Just like in the theater, it’s a good idea to have an ‘understudy’ ready to step in in case a scheduled chaperone can’t make the trip. ■

CHAPERONE RECRUITING

CHECK LIST:

√ Have experience working with adolescents

√ Be willing to help plan and facilitate activities

√ Able to attend all pre-tour meetings

√ Assist with documentation needs such as passports and visas

√ Prepared to spend money on items not covered in tour

√ Be able to chaperone small groups of students on flights or tours

√ Be able to follow all tour guidelines in respect to student expectations

CHAPERONE TRIP

RESPONSIBILITY CHECK LIST:

√ Be on call 24/7 in case of emergency

√ Assist with student disciplinary matters

√ Responsible for small groups of students throughout tour

√ Help facilitate curfews and room checks at night

√ Stay behind if a student is too ill to participate in the day’s activities

√ Accompany a student home in case of severe illness

√ Make sure students are ready at the proper time

√ Monitor activities during free time

√ Willingness to accompany students on free day excursions

√ Ability to take over the group if the lead teacher cannot complete the tour

EXPLORING OUTSTANDING

THEME PARKS IN CENTRAL FLORIDA

High-flying thrills combined with unique educational programs shoot these parks to the top of our list for student travel

By Courtney Lind

It’s no secret that Central Florida loves their theme parks. While the most famous and well known among them is Walt Disney World, you may be surprised to learn just how many parks exist in this relatively small region. And with their location in a beautiful subtropical climate, a trip to the parks is possible at nearly any time of year. What’s even better? Each of these unique theme parks offers special programs for student groups to take learning to the next level as part of a field trip or school holiday. Check out this spectacular collection of Central Florida theme parks that are perfect for integrating high-flying thrills with crucial subjects like STEM and biology. From the wonder of Walt Disney World and the water-focused SeaWorld Orlando to animal-themed Busch Gardens Tampa Bay the options for you and your students are abundant.

Photo courtesy of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Kumba roller coaster at Busch Gardens

TRAVEL TO WALT DISNEY WORLD IN ORLANDO, FLORIDA

By far the most world-renowned of the Central Florida theme parks, this park is divided into four separate parks: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom. Each has its own unique attractions, shows and dining options that can help guide your itinerary. Magic Kingdom is known for its iconic castle, parades and classic rides like Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean.

EPCOT will take students on a journey around the world, with a showcase of pavilions representing different countries. Hollywood Studios is home to attractions based on popular movies and TV shows, like Star Wars and Toy Story. Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a wildlife-themed park with a focus on conservation and environmental education. Special pricing is available for student groups of 10 or more. Be sure to check out Disney’s Imagination Campus for a

unique learning environment that helps prepare students for realworld challenges in the areas of performing arts, humanities, STEM and leadership.

STUDENTS AND SEAWORLD ORLANDO

This marine-themed park is sure to wow animal lovers as students can get up close and personal with dolphins, sharks, sea lions and other marine animals through a mix of live shows and attractions. Though there’s no shortage of thrills in this park, either. SeaWorld is home to some of Central Florida’s biggest rides, including Manta – with its 200-foot drop and speeds of up to 73 miles per hour. And then there’s Kraken, the only floorless coaster in Orlando, which also features seven inversions.

SeaWorld is also home to Aquatica: the #1 Water Park in America as named by USA Today. Keeping with the marine theme, students can take the Reef Plunge – a new water slide experience where students will zoom past an underwater habitat full of dolphins,

sharks and fish. There’s also an incredible array of thrilling aquatic rides like Riptide Race and Ihu’s Breakaway Falls, as well as more relaxing attractions like a lazy river and kid’s pool.

Another sister park within SeaWorld is the popular Discovery Cove, where students can swim with dolphins (an experience they won’t soon forget), snorkel with fish and get up close with animals of all shapes and sizes.

Special pricing is available for student groups of 15 or more. For Florida groups, check out the Instructional Field Trip Experience, where students will experience an unforgettable day of hands-on activities throughout the park.

EXPERIENCE UNIVERSAL ORLANDO THEME PARK

Another favorite among the Central Florida theme parks is Universal Orlando, which is comprised of three parks. Students will love the movie-themed attractions based around Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, Marvel and many more. While Universal Orlando is known to house some of the more thrilling rides in Florida, it truly has something for everyone, from the leisurely to the extreme.

In the Islands of Adventure park you’ll find fan favorites like VelociCoaster and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, while in Universal Studios you can explore a recreation of Diagon Alley from Harry Potter or ride the zippy Rip Ride Rockit. And Volcano Bay water park with its popular Krakatau Aqua Coaster, is a great place to cool

Photo courtesy of SeaWorld Orlando

Turtle Trek habitat at SeaWorld

off from the Central Florida heat. Universal Orlando has a host of special educational programs for student groups, including the Storytelling: It Starts With a Hero program, in which students learn the main components of character development, backstory, plot and much more. Or check out Your Classroom in Motion, in which students will use critical thinking and apply in-classroom principles to understand the goings-on of the park. Apply physics to Rip Ride Rockit or engineering to Transformers: The Ride for a whole new way to experience the park.

LEGOLAND® FLORIDA RESORT IN CYPRESS GARDENS, FLORIDA

Based around the timeless toy that we all know and love, LEGOLAND® Florida Resort is

a 150-acre paradise perfect for the elementary school crowd. Inside the park you’ll find nearly 50 building-themed rides and attractions spread across a variety of themed areas like Pirates’ Cove or MINILAND USA, where students can walk among iconic landmarks from across the U.S., all made entirely out of LEGOs. Hop aboard Flying School, a suspended coaster with great views over the park or cool down aboard the AQUAZONE® Wave Racers for a fun and competitive adventure. And for a splashing good time be sure to head to the on-site water park, included in the price of admission. Special pricing is available for student groups of 15 or more. Special shows are available throughout the park such as Time to Learn, where teachers guide

students in fun activities centered around science, reading and writing (and LEGOs, of course).

STUDENTS TRAVELING TO BUSCH GARDENS IN TAMPA BAY, FLORIDA

About 90 minutes from Orlando on Central Florida’s Gulf coast you’ll find one of the country’s most celebrated parks: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. This animal-themed amusement park has it all from shows and live entertainment to some of the most exciting coasters and rides around.

Thrill-seeking students will be excited to jump on Montu, an inverted coaster with a zero-G roll, Iron Gwazi with its 206-foot drop, and SheiKra, a floorless dive coaster. Animal lovers won’t want to miss seeing some of Africa’s most exotic animals up close on the Serengeti Express. Additionally, there are plenty of opportunities for animal encounters throughout the park along with live shows for all ages. Students can even go behind the scenes with the park’s Keeper for a Day tours to learn more about preservation efforts.

Special pricing is available for student groups of 15 or more. Be sure to check out Physics Day, taking place annually in April and December. On this fun-filled day there are special stations set up around the park for students, a guide provided to teachers and accelerometers are even mounted on select rides. Coming in 2024, Biology Day will bring biology concepts to life with the help of the park’s incredible wildlife experts. ■

Students at Universal Orlando

Photo courtesy of Universal Orlando Resort

THE LATEST TECH & APPS FOR STUDENT TRAVEL

6 Apps to Help You Plan Your Next Student Trip

By Gabriela dos Santos

It takes a highly skilled planner to organize a school or student trip, so big kudos to you. That said in this age of unlimited technology — wherein hundreds of thousands of apps have been developed to facilitate everything from grocery shopping and ordering food to walking our furry four-legged friends — is there technology out there that can help student trip planners with not only planning but with some of the unique demands of traveling with students? That’s a question we recently asked ourselves here at Student Travel Planning Guide. Fortunately for you, the answer is yes. Here, we spotlight six cutting-edge tech and apps ideal for student travel.

THE 6 APPS INCLUDE:

JOURNI

Instead of going through the arduous task of coming up with a perfect itinerary all on your own, let TripCase do the heavy lifting. This app has revolutionized the travel industry since its initial development in 2013, reaching a whopping 15 million itineraries created in 2019 alone. With TripCase you can manage travel risk, send real-time automated alerts and make one streamlined itinerary making your student trips come together as if it were magic.

1 2 3

TRIPCASE FOR ITINERARIES AND MORE

have to worry about your message not sending due to various phone software (Apple, Android, Google, etc.) occupying one chatroom. This app, for example, will help you chime in with quick updates while your students roam around a museum. Additionally, it’s also a great way for you to bond with your students in the fun tech space they love. You’ll be able to create polls, share events and even use those silly yet expressive stickers. Not tech-savvy? No worries as GroupMe makes starting a group chat easy and even fun.

GROUPME FOR MESSAGING

GroupMe is a great messenger app that allows you to create a group chat without having to use your personal number. You also won’t

GROUPCOLLECT FOR PAPERWORK AND PAYMENTS

The GroupCollect app will help you to stay on top of the more tedious stuff like your students’ passenger details, documents and trip payments. This hard-working app

will limit the paperwork on your end and help you and your students avoid missing payment deadlines as well as general miscommunications. You’ll also have speedy access to passenger data from any web-enabled device. This includes emergency contact info to medical info. Additionally, you can collect and store waivers and permission slips all through GroupCollect. This app can even collect deposits for trips, or you can keep it manual while using other trip payment features.

JOURNI FOR PHOTOS

During the trip, you and your students will inevitably have so many picture-worthy moments. Parents and the students will all want access to the memories made during the trip. Journi is a brilliant photo journaling app that keeps all the amazing shots in one place while also creating timelines and maps. You can easily create a photo journal with your students so they too can add the pictures they took on their

own devices. Another cool feature is the Journi Print app, which allows you and your students to get prints delivered to your doorstep should you opt in. While downloading the app is free, Journi’s Photobook starts at $16.99. It can carry up to 300 pages and include a glossy finish as well as be hardcover.

PACKPOINT FOR PACKING

Packing for a trip is an art form all its own. Having PackPoint, however, will guide you and your students through the packing journey so you don’t forget, say, your camera, trusty jacket or hiking boots. Added bonus: It’s super easy to use too. After you download the app, simply add your trip details and choice activities, then PackPoint determines what you’ll need to bring without leaving any of the important considerations (like weather patterns) out. Another unique aspect to this app is that it comes with Share Your Packing List, which allows you to share your packing list with your student group, so they’ll know what to pack too.

MYTSA APP FOR TRAVEL

In theory, this app isn’t as fun as the others featured here. But what it lacks in playful mascots or goofy stickers it more than makes up for in useful information. The MyTSA app clarifies the TSA process flyers frequently undergo, provides tips on what (and what not) to pack, and offers clear and concise explanations of the various TSA rules. One cool feature of the MyTSA app is it allows users to check how busy the airport is likely to be on a specific day and time of travel based on historical data. Share this information with anxious flyers to help soothe their pre-flight jitters and prep them to arrive on time and what to expect once they do. ■

Photo courtesy of PackPoint

Photo courtesy of Journi

WEST

Arlington’s AT&T Stadium offers behind-the-scenes tours to student groups.

The largest region of the country, the Western United States is also the most geographically diverse with rainforests, high mountain ranges, glaciers and more than its fair share of desert areas. This hard-to-define quality also makes this area all the more interesting for you and your students with a seemingly never-ending option of different experiences to enjoy.

31 History Colorado

32 Arlington Convention & Visitors Bureau

Photo courtesy of AT&T Stadium

COLORADO CONNECTIONS

As states go, Colorado goes deep when it comes to creating interesting opportunities that connect people to its past. Need proof? Enter History Colorado, a charitable organization created in 1879 to help people understand what it means to be a Coloradan via its powerful stories, treasured memories and vibrant communities.

Take, for instance, the El Pueblo History Museum, which showcases

the region’s many cultural and ethnic groups through innovative exhibits. There’s the El Pueblo Trading Post, which includes a re-created 1840s adobe trading post and plaza, and the archaeological excavation site of the original 1842 El Pueblo trading post which remains open to this day. Designed in consultation with three Ute tribes, the Ute Indian Museum celebrates the history and living culture of Colorado’s longest

continuous residents. Featuring one of the most extensive collections of Ute ethnological objects, the museum strives to make connections between past and contemporary Ute life as well as the history of their adaptation and persistence.

The History Colorado Center offers public programs, events and educational programs. Designed for multi-generational audiences, the museum features interactive elements in the majority of its more than 15+ exhibits that span four floors. Like Colorado itself, the museum is always evolving with new exhibitions and displays that continue to tell the stories of the Centennial State.

HISTORY COLORADO • EMILY TURNER

DISCOVER THE MANY JOYS OF COLORADO’S HISTORY—FROM A HISTORIC TRADING POST TO A MUSEUM OF THE UTE TRIBES

ADVENTURES AWAIT IN ARLINGTON, TEXAS

FROM ROLLERCOASTERS AND A STUNNING PLANETARIUM, ARLINGTON OFFERS WONDER IN SO MANY PLACES

It’s not every city that can have a tagline of “A World of Wonderful,” but Arlington, Texas isn’t just any city. And today? Well, Arlington offers more than its fair share of terrific activities for visitors and locals alike, ranging from family-friendly theme parks and champion sports teams to one-of-a-kind restaurants. In 2025, Arlington will become the permanent home of the National Medal of Honor Museum.

SIX FLAGS IN ARLINGTON, TEXAS

If heart-racing fun is your group’s idea of a good time, Arlington is happy to oblige. At Six Flags Over Texas students have the option of 13 world-class rollercoasters, including Titan (the tallest rollercoaster in

the state) and El Diablo (the world’s largest loop rollercoaster). Waterlovers will appreciate Aquaman Power Wave, a first-of-its-kind water coaster. And come warmer weather, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor is the place to be with a float along the Lazy River, slides aplenty and innertube adventures.

ENJOY PROFESSIONAL SPORTS

Get your group’s game face on at AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys. Students can get a behind-the-scenes tour to learn all the stories behind one of the most iconic athletic stadiums in the U.S. Baseball fans get in on the fun too with a tour of the home of the Texas Rangers, Globe Life Field. View the batting cage, press box, luxury suite, dugout and more.

VISIT THE PLANETARIUM

For an out-of-this-world experience, head to the Arlington

Planetarium at the University of Texas at Arlington, one of the three largest planetariums in the state. With its 60-foot diameter dome and fully digital projection system, viewers can get up close to faraway stars, planets and even galaxies. The Planetarium also features animated shows that will transport your group at light speed to a variety of amazing worlds.

COZY ACCOMMODATIONS

Next year, the highly anticipated Arlington Convention Center and Loews Arlington Hotel will bring an additional 888 guest rooms and suites as well as 215,000 square feet of indoor meeting space and 66,000 square feet of outdoor space, five food and beverage outlets, resort-style beach club, man-made beach and water slide.

ARLINGTON CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU • CHAD ENLOE

EAST

Look inside the lives of a real Gettysburg family at Shriver House Museum.

The Eastern states of the U.S. are nothing if not diverse when it comes to the possibilities of stellar student group trips. Whether you’re looking to dive deep in the rich history of this country or are opting for culture-filled experiences, this fascinating region delivers beyond expectations.

Photo courtesy of Destination Gettysburg

CELEBRATE AMERICAN HISTORY

DISCOVER THE INTEGRAL ROLE THE U.S. CONSTITUTION PLAYED IN OUR NATION’S FOUNDING

The National Constitution Center in Philadelphia brings together people of all ages and perspectives, across America and around the world, to learn about, debate, and celebrate the greatest vision of human freedom in history, the U.S. Constitution. Visit the museum in person for an immersive field trip and discover rare artifacts and interactive showcases inspired by the U.S. Constitution,

or experience the museum online through live online tours, interactive programs and classes. Through interactive exhibits, rare artifacts and live theater, the Center brings the Constitution to life.

After your visit, bring the National Constitution Center into your classroom. Museum resources include an online Interactive Constitution and drawing on primary source documents from the

curated online Founders’ Library containing over 170 historical texts and over 70 landmark Supreme Court cases selected by experts— students can study the historical and philosophical foundations of America’s founding principles from a diverse range of voices.

This must-see museum is located at 525 Arch Street just steps from the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, making it a magnificent field trip destination. Groups of 15 students or more receive discounted admission rates to premier exhibits, history tours, and educational programs.

NATIONAL CONSTITUTION CENTER • GINA ROMANELLI

Take, for instance, the Infinity Room, a multisensory experience that lives up to its name and then some by creating the illusion of infinite space. Or if defying gravity

Change the way you see things.

Students can engage in over 60 visual and educational exhibits featuring holograms, stereograms, optical illusions, and immersive rooms that are designed to tease the senses and trick the mind.

An immersive museum has opened in Philadelphia, with high-tech interactive exhibits perfect for student groups. Faith and Liberty Discovery Center on Independence Mall welcomed its first visitors in May 2021, offering exciting stories about America’s diverse history. Glimpse colonial Philadelphia through exhibits focusing on American values that shaped our nation: faith, liberty, justice, hope, unity and love. A core aspect of this museum is the overwhelming power spiritual values can have and how important love and hope are for community survival. The museum offers student trips for grades six through twelve with an option to tailor the trip for college students.

It’s a day that will live on forever in the hearts and minds of so many people. For so many of us, the world changed on September 11, 2001. Honor the 40 passengers and crew members on United Flight 93 who lost their lives protecting others by preventing a terrorist attack on the U.S. Capitol at the Flight 93 National Memorial. Located in a protected area near Shanksville, Pennsylvania and overseen by the National Park Service, the memorial is thoughtfully designed to instill hope and reflection to those who experience the crash site and its moving memorials.

FAITH & LIBERTY DISCOVERY CENTER • LISA ARRELL

Philadelphia’s central location on the East Coast makes it a top pick for educators. Explore the nation’s most historic square mile, with attractions like the Liberty Bell, National Constitution Center and Museum of the American Revolution. Steeped in history, Philadelphia continues to grow, with plenty of new things to see. From the Museum of Illusions to new exhibits at the Penn Museum, there is something for everyone.

DISCOVER PHILADELPHIA

DAY 1

With a robust history and a variety of vibrant arts and culture institutions, a day trip to Philadelphia is not enough time to fully experience everything the city of Brotherly Love has to offer. Make the most of your visit and plan to discover Philadelphia over two full days.

Start your day in the birthplace of the nation, in America’s most historic square mile visiting iconic institutions like the Liberty Bell Center and the Betsy Ross House. Pose with life-size statues of the Signers of the Constitution at the National Constitution Center and don’t forget to take a photo.

Take a break for lunch at student groupfriendly restaurants like Campo’s or Philly’s Gourmet Steaks. Continue your group’s history lesson by discovering how faith played a role in shaping the nation at the Faith and Liberty Discovery Center

DAY 2

For day two, begin the morning by exploring the underwater world at Adventure Aquarium in Camden, New Jersey, by Riverlink ferry across the Delaware River or a short drive away and right over the Ben Franklin Bridge. Afterwards, have a step-on guide join your group’s bus to give an insider’s perspective on the city and learn more about the history lessons from the day before.

On your return to the city, bring your students to Reading Terminal Market, one of America’s oldest public markets. With some 80 merchants, there’s a variety of options to accommodate all palates.

ANNIE JIRAPATNAKUL

215-636-3405

ANNIE@DISCOVERPHL.COM

DISCOVERPHL.COM/ GROUP-TOUR

Don’t forget to go see General Washington’s tent and visit the new special exhibit, “Black Founders: The Forten Family of Philadelphia” at the Museum of the American Revolution.

After all that history, cap off the night with bowling and delicious food at South Bowl. Head back to your group’s hotel to rest up before another jam-packed day.

Once your group has refueled, take your students to explore Philadelphia’s many museums. Be immersed in the uniquely organized art galleries at the Barnes Foundation, explore the cell blocks at Eastern State Penitentiary, and discover passions for science and technology at The Franklin Institute. Close the day with a tour of the University of Pennsylvania combined with a visit to the Penn Museum, where students can unearth history with an afterhours scavenger hunt and dinner.

Philadelphia is more than just your ordinary tour with educational adventures that make student groups want to visit again and again.

Photo courtesy of Anthony Sinagoga/PHLCVB

A departure

DISCOVERPHL.COM

ORDINARY TOUR FROM THE

S UDDEN LY, IT D OESN’T F EEL LIKE LEARNING.

Kids are like sponges. So take them someplace where they can really soak up the fun! Centrally located on the East Coast, Philadelphia is a top pick for group planners. Explore the nation’s most historic square mile at Independence National Historical Park, visit the famous Liberty Bell, stroll Elfreth’s Alley and visit even more iconic attractions throughout the city. START P L A N N I NG TODAY AT D ISCOVE RPHL.COM/GROUP -TOUR.

BRINGING EDUCATION TO LIFE

WITH MORE THAN 50 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE, DESTINATION EDUCATION SM BY WATERMARK ® CREATES ONE-OF-A-KIND EXPERIENCES IN THE CHESAPEAKE BAY AREA

Watermark’s heartfelt enthusiasm for the area it calls home has remained the same for more than 50 years. In that time, Watermark has provided field trips for hundreds of thousands of students. From period-attired tour guides to customized STEM cruises, Watermark brings education to life and is beloved by teachers and students alike. Watermark’s most popular Annapolis field trip combines a historic walking tour with a narrated boat cruise.

EDUCATING COLONIAL STROLL

A period-attired guide leads

students past historic homes and mansions, explaining about life in the 18th century and the important figures that helped make Annapolis and Maryland what it is today. The tour includes the Maryland State House, where George Washington resigned as Commander-in-Chief.

EXPERIENCE THE U.S. NAVAL ACADEMY

Students experience the sights and sounds of the U.S. Naval Academy, home to more than 4,000 midshipmen, on this 90-minute tour of the Yard, which includes building interiors and historic landmarks like Bill the Goat and the crypt of John Paul Jones.

ANNAPOLIS HARBOR & U.S. NAVAL ACADEMY CRUISE

On this educational 40-minute narrated boat ride, students learn

more about the history of the U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis’ role as a historic seaport, the region’s waterways, and local ecology.

EXPLORE BALTIMORE

Watermark offers a variety of experiences in Baltimore with its vast network of partners, including the National Aquarium and the B&O Railroad Museum. This popular choice highlights the city’s rich history.

NATIONAL ANTHEM CRUISE

This hour-long cruise in Baltimore delves into the War of 1812, Maryland’s role in securing American independence, and the creation of the Star-Spangled Banner as Fort McHenry was under siege by the British.

DESTINATION EDUCATIONSM

BY WATERMARK® • BECKY PORZILLO 410-268-7601

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HISTORY AND HERITAGE MERGE IN FREDERICK, MARYLAND

Located in the northern part of Maryland, close to Baltimore, Gettysburg and Washington, DC, Frederick is a city rich in agriculture, outdoor adventures and cultural attractions. Local pride is everywhere in Frederick, from its specialty shops and one-of-a-kind breweries to farmto-table restaurants. History, and more specifically that of the United States, is deeply rooted in this area and in the people who call Frederick home.

MONOCACY NATIONAL BATTLEFIELD IN MARYLAND

About one hour from Baltimore and 2 miles from Frederick, you’ll find 1,647 acres of rolling farm fields offering beautiful views

along the Monocacy River. Don’t let the serene ambiance of this area fool you. It was here in the summer of 1864 that the Federal soldiers, outnumbered three to one, fought bravely against the Confederacy. Their victory became known as the battle that saved Washington, DC. Now part of the National Park Service, Monocacy National Battlefield offers many ways to take in its significance with a staff dedicated to helping you make the most of your visit to a true historic treasure.

FREDERICK, MARYLAND NATIONAL MUSEUM OF CIVIL WAR MEDICINE

Now that you’ve experienced where one of the Civil War’s great battles took place, it’s time to delve into the stories of the healing and devotion of those who took care of the many wounded soldiers. The National Museum of

Civil War Medicine features five immersion exhibits that recreate aspects of Civil War medical issues, including life in an army camp, evacuation of the wounded from the battlefront, a field dressing station, a field hospital and a military ward.

MUSEUM OF THE IRONWORKER IN MARYLAND

It’s not a story that often gets told but that’s the point of the Museum of the Ironworker. This museum uses conserved artifacts and interpretive exhibits to tell the unique stories of those who worked there. Two forensic facial reconstructions of two of its employees are a highlight of the museum. Additionally, The Museum of the Ironworker offers a number of downloadable lesson plans on its website.

FROM A CIVIL WAR MEDICINE MUSEUM TO A FAMOUS BATTLEFIELD, FREDERICK IS A HISTORY-LOVER’S DREAM SPOT

VISIT FREDERICK • BECKY BICKERTON

SINCE

DISNEY ON BROADWAY

There are few words in the English language that bring a universal smile to the faces of kids of all ages than Disney. Whether you’re talking about Disneyland, Disney World or the magical Disney movies and the beloved characters who star in them, Disney has entertained people all over the world for many years.

That joyful Disney tradition continues on Broadway in New York City. From “The Lion King” to “Frozen,” these award-winning musicals are a great way to introduce student groups to the magic of live theater.

To make the most of your visit, Disney Theatrical Group Sales can customize a program designed

to satisfy your group’s unique needs while in New York City. Disney Theatrical Sales is your direct connection to book group tickets for Disney experiences on Broadway and across the country. Experience the show of a lifetime with “The Lion King,” which is celebrating 25 years on Broadway. The blending of Broadway-style songs and staging with African rhythm, dance and voices has contributed to the musical’s 70 major theater awards and its international popularity

Discover Broadway’s biggest party with “Aladdin,” which has transformed the New Amsterdam Theater into the streets of Agrabah. With more than 84 separate special effects featured throughout the musical adaptation, there is no shortage of the magic and spectacle, which has made the movie a beloved classic.

Then there’s “Frozen,” exclusively

on tour which has taken its record-breaking movie to the stage with songs that reach deeper into the characters to make the musical adaptation relatable to a wider audience.

Disney Theatrical Sales relaunched their Broadway workshops allowing groups to explore movement and music. Educators can bring the magic into their classrooms before their trips with special study guides and classroom materials. And beyond New York City groups can experience the Disney hit musicals direct from Broadway, including “Aladdin,” “The Lion King” and “Frozen,” which will be visiting over 60 cities in the next year.

1994, DISNEY ON BROADWAY MUSICALS HAVE ENTERTAINED AUDIENCES OF ALL AGES

DISNEY THEATRICAL SALES • HEATHER WEST

INNOVATIVE, INTERACTIVE EXHIBITS AT RISENY

MANHATTAN’S RISENY OFFERS IMMERSIVE GALLERIES AND THEME PARK-WORTHY EXPERIENCE TO STUDENTS

Located blocks from Times Square in Midtown Manhattan, RiseNY is a new innovative museum attraction offering students and educators a literal elevated experience. This threepart cultural adventure full of history includes a documentary film, self-guided galleries, and an unprecedented visceral soaring attraction to kick off your New York City tour.

Youth groups start with a City Hall-themed immersive film by award-winning documentarian Ric Burns detailing the history of New York City and Times Square. Once the movie is over, groups are set free to discover the second part of their experience through the immersive gallery exhibits.

RiseNY has seven museumstyle galleries for students and teachers to explore at leisure, each specializing in an important NYC attribute. Each gallery has a map of the city pinpointing sites that are featured in the space to assist in the next part of your NYC tour.

When you begin your adventure at RiseNY, take notes of the places featured throughout. Use the museum as a jumping-off point to learn about sites of interest to your educational group before heading out into the Big Apple.

Students and educators are encouraged to explore the selfguided galleries after the short film. There’s a lot of information, historical artifacts, photographs and stories to discover that could take a couple of hours to admire.

Students can discover the rise of Wall Street and The New York Stock Exchange in the Finance

Gallery. Learn the history of Tesla’s Coil and its influence on the rise of mass media in the TV/ Radio Gallery. For youth groups interested in specific industry trades, visual, language, and performing arts come to life in the Fashion, Music, Film and Broadway galleries. Educational guides aligned with NYSED standards are available for grades 3rd - 12th.

The third part of the experience and perhaps the most talked about is the “Flying Theater,” a one-of-akind simulation attraction offering guests a “theme park quality ride.” While suspended 30 feet in the air, fly across all five boroughs, complete with mist sprayers and tipping seats. The 40-foot-high, 180-degree projection dome gives you spectacular 8K aerial footage of the magnificent city below.

EXPLORE SIGNIFICANT MOMENTS IN U.S. HISTORY AT GETTYSBURG

It may have only lasted three days, but the Battle of Gettysburg encompassed some of the most significant 72 hours in the history of the United States. Known as the turning point in the Civil War, the Battle of Gettysburg ended with a victory for Union General George Meade and the Army of the Potomac and was instrumental in shaping the future of our nation. And so it goes in this area located in central Pennsylvania, where the significance

of its past is taken very seriously with a number of places in which to thoughtfully explore all the history this area has been witness to.

GETTYSBURG NATIONAL MILITARY PARK & VISITOR’S CENTER

There is a lot to see and experience at the Gettysburg National Military Park & Visitor’s Center, which includes their signature Film, Cyclorama & Museum Experience as

well as battlefield tours and visits to other historic sites. Start with a viewing of the film “A New Birth for Freedom”. Then see a variety of impeccably preserved historic items before a tour of the battlefield and its legendary landmarks.

VISIT THE SHRIVER HOUSE

Built in 1860 as a new residence and business, the fully restored Shriver House offers guided tours conducted by period attire-dressed docents and is a living reminder of how the Battle of Gettysburg affected those who lived nearby.

DESTINATION GETTYSBURG • LINDSAY METHLIE

Band members show off their skills at Ron Jon Surf Shop as part of its Performance In Excellence program.

SOUTH

Perhaps of all the regions in the U.S., the South offers some of the most unique cultural and historical heritage features. From its early European colonial settlements to the legacy of the Confederacy during the Civil War, the South developed its own customs, literature, musical styles and cuisines— all of which make it a special place for a student group trip.

50 Ron Jon Surf Shop

51 Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation

52 Colonial Williamsburg

54 Houmas House and Gardens

55 The Great River Road Steamboat Museum

Photo courtesy of Ron Jon Surf Shop

FUN IN THE SUN AT RON JON SURF SHOP— COCOA BEACH

Ron Jon Surf Shop was founded in 1959 on the New Jersey shore. After gaining popularity with surfers and beachgoers over the years, the company expanded –opening stores along the East Coast from Long Beach Island to Cocoa Beach to Key West.

Over 60 years later, Ron Jon is an iconic brand that welcomes all of those with a passion for summer fun. Your student group can make one-

of-a-kind memories when they visit the flagship store in Cocoa Beach. This 52,000-square-foot store is the World’s Largest Surf Shop, and it’s filled with the best selection of surf, skate and beach essentials on earth! If your band, orchestra or choral ensemble is coming to the Orlando area, check out the Performance In Excellence program and perform at the Cocoa Beach store. Performance In Excellence is a unique program

that allows elementary, middle and high school performers a place to show off their talent. It’s great any time of year, especially around holidays and spring break. Ron Jon hosts everything from large marching bands, small choral groups and dance ensembles to perform at the store. They have designated bus parking and an area outside the main entrance in which to perform. After the performance, your group is presented with a commemorative plaque, and each individual receives a Ron Jon fun pack and 15% discount card. Directors receive a gift and 20% discount card. For more information, email grpsales@rjss.com.

RON JON SURF SHOP • GROUP SALES DEPARTMENT

TIME TRAVELING IN VIRGINIA

AT JAMESTOWN SETTLEMENT AND THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION MUSEUM AT YORKTOWN HISTORY LIVES ON

Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown offer immersive learning experiences for students to time travel to America’s beginnings in 17th and 18th century Virginia. Throughout the year, teachers and students can discover the shared stories of people and events that shaped early America in person at both museums through dynamic gallery exhibits and interactive

living history in re-created settings. Historical interpretation and handson education programs connect the dots to help students understand their relevance today.

At Jamestown Settlement, students can explore gallery exhibits and life-size re-created settings to learn about the culture of the Virginia Indians who occupied the landscape for centuries, the arrival of English

colonists in Jamestown in 1607 to establish America’s first permanent English colony and the first documented arrival of West Central Africans in 1619, leading to cultural encounters and events that planted the seeds of a new nation.

At the American Revolution Museum, they can embrace the tumult and victory of the Revolutionary period to the dawn of the Constitution and beyond in engaging gallery exhibits and outdoor re-creations of a Continental Army encampment and Revolution-era farm.

JAMESTOWN-YORKTOWN FOUNDATION • JYF GROUP RESERVATIONS

HISTORY COMES ALIVE IN COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG

AT COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG, VISITORS HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO EXPERIENCE HISTORY IN MAGICAL WAYS

At 301 acres, Colonial Williamsburg is the world’s largest U.S. history museum. But there’s much more to this Williamsburg, Virginia historic landmark than simply its substantial size. Established in 1926, this immersive, authentic 18th-century experience includes 89 original buildings and more than 500 meticulous recreations of lost structures. Also onsite are two world-class art museums. Here, students can interact with the men and women of the founding generation and hear their stories of hope and struggle, perseverance and resilience

It comes as no surprise then that Colonial Williamsburg is an in-demand field trip destination

with plenty of talented interpreters available to create a customized visit. Students can step into life as it was for the founding families back in the 1700s. In other words: Colonial Williamsburg is where history books and lessons turn into magical interactions making for a truly unforgettable learning experience.

INNOVATE HISTORY LESSONS FOR STUDENTS

New this year is specialized hands-on education content as part of The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation’s new Interpretive Group Stations. Two core concepts, inquiry and experiential design, allow students to further engage in curriculum-based activities and leave with an even better understanding of how knowledge of 18th-century life can be applied to modern day.

Students can meet 21st century craftspeople practicing authentic 18th-century trades. The war for independence was forged — in some cases quite literally — with the many craftsmen of that time period, including those forging weapons, manufacturing regiment gear or growing crops for sustenance. At Colonial Williamsburg, students can see up-close more than 20 trades in action as they watch modern-day practitioners of blacksmithing, woodworking, gunsmithing and more use 18thcentury tools and techniques to create their wares. Students are encouraged to ask questions as they observe these true craftsmen recreate the art forms of a time long gone by.

WILLIAMSBURG FOUNDATION • ALLY RAMELLO

COLONIAL

HISTORIC GARDEN PARTY

HOUMAS HOUSE AND GARDENS BEAUTIFULLY HONORS THE SOUTHERN ESTATES OF TIMES GONE BY

Located between New Orleans and Baton Rouge, Houmas House and Gardens is a beautiful historic estate featuring lush gardens and a beautiful mansion. In Louisiana, plantations are a popular attraction for visitors, and that’s especially true of Houmas House.

Meticulously restored to the antebellum era, Houmas House reflects the opulence and wealth the sugarcane farm boasted during

the 1880s. Set on 38 acres of the South’s most stunning gardens, Houmas House offers tours that lead visitors through the 250year architectural evolution of the mansion and details how a succession of owners and the Mississippi River grew this manor house to today’s grand estate. Rare and period artwork and artifacts are displayed and used to explain plantation life, while guides in

period dress provide further insights into its unique history and story.

Once sprawling over 300,000 acres, Houmas House has survived wars, floods, abandonment and the test of time. Spend the day or night and experience the Antebellum South. Houmas House Estate and Gardens is the Crown Jewel of Louisiana’s River Road. Additionally, three restaurants offer breakfast, lunch and dinner featuring the finest Louisiana cuisine. The history lessons continue in the gift shop, which features gifts ranging from souvenirs to cookbooks to high-end gifts and art.

HOUMAS HOUSE AND GARDENS • LESLIE BREWER

A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT

EXPLORE THE MOST IMPORTANT BODY OF WATER IN THE U.S. AT THE GREAT RIVER ROAD MUSEUM

Located on the grounds of Louisiana’s Houmas House, a beautiful historic estate featuring lush gardens and a restored mansion, The Great River Road Museum offers an in-depth look at what early life along the lower Mississippi was truly like. From the wealthy owners of sugar empires to the humble lives of the enslaved, this museum details how each lived and survived by this

powerful river. Considered to be the most important body of water in the U.S., the Mississippi River was the main contributor to the physical and economic growth of what was to become The United States of America.

This unique museum sets its purpose from the get-go with an entrance reminiscent of a massive steamboat paddle wheel and into an experience of 1800s-era steamboat

grandeur. Inside the museum, visitors will find exhibits on historic maps of the river, displays about river folklore and information about commerce on the Mississippi and the passenger travel via steamboats that brought entertainment to stops up and down the river. The Great River Road Museum educates visitors about life on the Mississippi, exploring the culture, commerce, folklore and music. Once you’ve completed your visit, save time to walk across the bridge located in the parking lot to enjoy sweeping views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding landscape.

The Great River Road

A museum that showcases life on the Mississippi River in the 19th and 20th Century 40136 Hwy. 942 Darrow, La

THE GREAT RIVER ROAD STEAMBOAT MUSEUM • LESLIE BREWER