Home Program Field Trips
When students step into the community as scientists, historians, makers, and advocates, they deepen their understanding in ways that are joyful, relevant, and lasting. Park Day School field trips are designed with intention. Each one creates space for students to expand their perspectives, gain deeper understanding for how people and places shape one another, and anchor academic learning in real-world purpose.
Kindergarten
Kindergarten zoologists explore how animals use their senses at Lindsay Wildlife Experience, learning about echolocation, wildlife care, and the difference between wild and domesticated animals
1st Grade
Students participate in Crab Cove’s naturalist program in Alameda, exploring local ecosystems and animal adaptations.
2nd Grade
2nd graders take a deep dive into the life and work of artists like Ruth Asawa. Their study culminates with a visit to museum exhibits like the Ruth Asawa: Retrospective at SFMOMA.
3rd Grade
3rd grade historians visit the Oakland History Room at the Oakland Main Library as they begin researching important Oakland landmarks and developing their independent research skills.
4th Grade
Students learn about daily life under Spanish rule at Peralta Hacienda, deepening their understanding of the mission system’s impact on Indigenous people in California.
5th Grade
Students have the chance to see performances like Step Afrika who explored the Great Migration through stepping, tap, and body percussion. Trips often connect to areas of study in performance art classes.
6th Grade
6th grade archaeologists deepen their understanding of ancient civilizations with trips to museums like the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum in San Jose, where they learned about Egyptian history up close.
7th & 8th Grades
Students attended theatrical productions in connection with their ongoing studies of history and social change. Recent shows included A.C.T.’s production of Kim’s Convenience, reflecting on identity, family, and community.
Beginning in 4th grade, students embark on multi-day overnight trips that deepen classroom learning through hands-on experiences, allow them to explore new environments, build independence, and strengthen connections with their classmates.
4th Grade Gold Rush
4th grade Forty-Niners travel back in time at Coloma Outdoor Discovery School and step into the world of 1849 and the California Gold Rush. Students assume gold rush identities, pan for gold, and engage in living-history activities, deepening their classroom learning.
5th Grade Naturebridge
Students head to the Marin Headlands for a multi-day trip, meeting scientists, exploring California’s water systems and watersheds, and connecting with nature and each other.
6th Grade Camp Ocean Pines
6th grade field scientists travel to Camp Ocean Pines on the Central Coast, where they dissect owl pellets and squid, explore beaches and tide pools, and deepen their understanding of adaptation, biodiversity, and coastal ecosystems. Students also try their hands at archery, stargazing, and axe throwing, building skills and community.
7th Grade Southern California
Students travel to Southern California as part of their year-long study of borders and migration, meeting Border Angels and members of the United Farm Workers, exploring El Pueblo de Los Angeles, museums, and parks. Throughout the trip, they deepen their understanding of how borders shape history, culture, and identity.
8th Grade East Coast
Students travel to the east coast, visiting museums, memorials, and cultural sites while actively researching, discussing, and reflecting on American history. Through firsthand experiences and thought-provoking conversations, they deepen their understanding of history, society, and their own roles as learners and citizens.