Education

Carmel HS Takes on FIRST Robotics Championship with Educational Destinations

Thirty robotics students from Carmel HS (IN) joined teams from all over the world to compete at the annual FIRST Championship in Houston, TX. After a whirlwind of travel and double-elimination matches, the varsity Carmel team, the 868 TechHOUNDS, walked away as Division Champions, with their final alliance ranking second in the world. This year, the FIRST Championship comprised 600 FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) teams representing 50 countries. Students qualified depending on their performance in state championships, only...

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Alaska Conservation Trip Highlights Experiential Learning in Wildlife and Culture

Experiential learning in conservation is increasingly recognized as essential to student development, particularly as environmental challenges grow in complexity and urgency. Last month, students from Bentley Upper School in California participated in an educational, conservation-focused trip to Alaska. The itinerary combined wildlife science, environmental stewardship and cultural education.   Alaska Native Heritage Center The Bentley Upper School's trip began in Anchorage with a visit to the Alaska Native Heritage Center. This experience grounded students in the traditions...

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Why Schools Should Visit the National Museum of Mathematics During Math Awareness Month

During Mathematics and Statistics Awareness Month, educators have an opportunity to rethink how students engage with mathematics. Research consistently shows that hands-on learning improves comprehension and retention, especially in subjects often perceived as abstract. When students actively explore mathematical ideas through physical models and interactive exhibits, they develop stronger problem-solving skills and deeper conceptual understanding. These experiences complement classroom instruction and help bridge the gap between theory and real-world application. One destination that exemplifies this approach is the

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Civil War History Trips: Educational Field Trip Destinations That Bring History to Life

The anniversary of the American Civil War every April offers a timely opportunity to connect students with one of the most defining periods in United States history. While textbooks provide essential context, visiting Civil War sites allows students to engage directly with preserved landscapes, primary artifacts and interpretive programs that deepen historical understanding. Experiencing these places in person fosters a clearer sense of how national conflicts shape civic life.   Gettysburg, Pennsylvania The Battle of Gettysburg site at Gettysburg National...

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Celebrating Women’s History Month: A Letter from the Director

March is Women’s History Month, a time to reflect on the remarkable contributions women have made to our world — past, present and future. At its heart, educational travel is about discovering stories, understanding different perspectives and learning from those who helped shape the path before us. So many of those stories belong to women whose courage, intelligence and determination changed the course of history. From trailblazers like Rosa Parks and Marie Curie to leaders like Eleanor Roosevelt...

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Women’s History in Philadelphia: Where Women Helped Shape American Democracy

Each March, Women’s History Month offers an opportunity to recognize the women whose leadership, courage and civic engagement helped shape the United States. Few cities tell that story more powerfully than Philadelphia, where the foundations of American democracy were built and where women played essential roles both behind the scenes and on the public stage. For student groups exploring American civics, Philadelphia provides meaningful opportunities to learn how women contributed to the country’s founding and how their influence...

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Expanding Global Opportunities: Exploring Educational Travel in China

Educational Destinations Travel Designer Mary Godley shares her recent experience exploring exciting educational travel opportunities throughout China. I had the immense joy and honor to join an eight-night professional tour in China with the Student and Youth Travel Association and the Chinese National Tourist Office of New York. Our mission was to explore student educational tourism. The itinerary highlighted the historical might of Beijing and Xi’an, the balance of Hangzhou - both poetic and forward thinking - and...

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Black History Sites in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C., is home to some of the nation’s most important landmarks honoring Black history, culture and leadership. For students, the city offers a powerful look at the people and stories that shaped American history. From the arts and political activism to community spaces and cultural institutions, here are some of our favorite places for groups to experience during Black History Month and throughout the year. U Street: A Historic Black Cultural District Known in its prime as “Black Broadway,” the U...

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Inspire Your Heart with Art Day: Educational Travel Experiences That Bring the Arts to Life

Inspire Your Heart with Art Day, observed Jan. 31, celebrates the power of the arts to educate, inspire and connect. Art is not limited to gallery walls - it includes music, theater, dance, architecture and public expression. Educational travel allows students to engage with the arts in dynamic, hands-on ways that deepen learning and spark creativity.   Museum of Modern Art — New York City The Museum of Modern Art focuses on modern and contemporary creativity. Students explore painting, sculpture,...

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Human Rights Month: Top U.S. Civil Rights Sites for Student Learning

Human Rights Month is an important time for students to examine the people and events that shaped the Civil Rights Movement. Several U.S. destinations offer powerful, curriculum-aligned learning experiences. These museums and historic sites help students connect classroom lessons to real stories of courage, activism and resilience. The Rosa Parks Museum — Montgomery, Alabama Rosa Parks The Rosa Parks Museum is located on the site where Parks was arrested in 1955. Students learn about her role in the Montgomery Bus...

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