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For the past 23 years, I have been leading McCornack 5th graders and their parents to the East Coast. The parent group officially calls themselves the “D.C. or Bust” group – a name that was created 23 years ago and has stuck. As you view the East Coast pictures, you will understand the historic focus that I try to maintain while touring. Sometimes I am able to add extra stops like Valley Forge, Fort McHenry, Baltimore National Aquarium and perhaps a baseball game.
Over the years our itinerary has been fluid. Some years we have included places like New York City, Gettysburg, the Amish area of Pennsylvania, Baltimore, Williamsburg, Jamestown, Monticello, etc. I always discuss itinerary options at the beginning of the year at an East Coast informational meeting. Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. are always on the itinerary every year.
Curriculum that 5th graders have been studying all year align perfectly with this trip. Not only do they study early American History, but they also learn about famous American heroes and current event issues. This trip enables students to not only talk the talk, but they are now able to walk the walk of so many famous people, places and events related to our country’s lively history as well as present day happenings.
I also give evening history talks to interested parents. Parents volunteer to host the informal get together at their homes. Books are recommended that can be read with your child or for your own information. I also meet with the “D.C. Kids” after school for about six weeks toward the end of the year for extra prep before we take off.
The trip cost is all inclusive – transportation, meals, hotels, entry fees, air fare, etc. Parents that choose to fundraise throughout the year are able to reduce at least 1/3 to 1/2 of a trip cost – depending upon how much time is put into those endeavors. We have also had several students earn their entire trip through fund raising. We usually meet about once a month to plan fund raising projects.
For more information, please don’t hesitate to ask me. I never tire of sharing information about our East Coast adventures!