I am Rebecca, a kindergarten teacher in Baltimore City, entering my 18th year of teaching. Every year, I strive to create an exploratory, hands-on, and caring classroom, but nothing compares to the impact of educational field trips. These experiences bring learning to life for my students, many of whom would not have the opportunity to visit places like the science center, aquarium, zoo, or even a farm just outside the city if it weren’t for our school trips. I’ve seen students who struggle in literacy or math become fully engaged during these outings, asking questions, making connections, and showing genuine excitement for learning. One memorable moment was when a student told me how visiting the Museum of Dentistry inspired them to take better care of their teeth—a lesson that will last a lifetime.

Unfortunately, rising costs for buses and entry fees are making it harder for families to afford these experiences. With three kindergarten classrooms, we need at least one bus per class, and the cost for transportation alone can be nearly $1,000 per trip. Entry fees can add up to $30 per student, and sometimes chaperones must pay to attend as well. I believe every child, regardless of their home situation, deserves the chance to participate in these field trips. Donations will help cover transportation, entry fees, and additional chaperones, ensuring that all students can access these hands-on learning opportunities.

After each field trip, my students take time to write about their experiences, which often includes thank you notes to donors, chaperones, or even the locations we visit. This not only makes the trips more meaningful, but also helps them develop important writing skills that are crucial for their educational journey. If you would like to receive a thank you note after a field trip, please send your information to me—I would be honored to share our gratitude with you. I invite you to help us make these field trips possible for every child. Your support will provide unforgettable experiences and inspire my students to connect what they learn in the classroom to the world around them. Thank you for helping us create lasting memories and a love of learning for our kindergarteners.