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. Our field trips are designed with intention. Each one creates space for students to expand their perspectives, explore complex ideas with their hands and hearts, and see themselves as part of something larger than a single classroom. These immersive experiences help them understand how people and places shape one another, and they 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 took a deep dive into the life and work of Ruth Asawa. Their study culminated with a visit to the Ruth Asawa: Retrospective at SFMOMA, a rare opportunity to experience the full scope of her work firsthand.
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 had the chance to see Step Afrika in performance while the company was in town, exploring the Great Migration through stepping, tap, and body percussion, connecting to body percussion studied in music class.
6th Grade
6th grade archaeologists deepen their understanding of ancient civilizations with a trip to the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum in San Jose, seeing artifacts and learning about Egyptian history up close.
7th & 8th Grades
Students attended A.C.T.’s production of Kim’s Convenience, reflecting on identity, family, and community in connection with their ongoing studies of history and social change.
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 DC
Students travel to Washington D.C., 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.