Washington D.C.
8th Grade Trip
A week in our nation's capital, Washington DC, is never enough, but it is an opportunity that every Vineyard student will enjoy as an eighth grader. After completing nearly a year's course in American history and government, students and their parent chaperones travel with a Joshua Expeditions tour guide. During the month of April, the group will visit as many monuments, memorials, and museums as we can fit in.
Students honor our nation's fallen by laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, tour Arlington National Cemetery, visit Mt. Vernon, hear from survivors at the Holocaust Museum. The group will use a combination of walking, the Metro and a hired coach for the week as we make our way all around the D.C. region. For months prior to the trip, students study in preparation for a hands-on experience in our nation's capital.
Eighth graders and their parents host a fundraiser in order to help cover costs of the trip. The VCMS Crab Feed has seen the best crab in town, in addition to excellent raffle and auction items. All proceeds from the evening are divided evenly among the participating students and have typically covered 50% (or more) of the initial price of the trip. This event traditionally sees a large community involvement, lending to its continued success.
"The dedication of the staff to help us thoroughly enjoy Washington, DC, the new friendships gained among the parents and the true joy shared between the kids as they share one last time together before heading off to a variety of high schools made the trip a lifetime memory."
-Paul Booth, Parent
