At Fair Grove, field trips are more than just a break from class. They help students connect classroom learning to real-world experiences. Both teachers and students agree that these trips are an important part of education.
Many things go into setting up field trips, business teacher Cayse Overstreet said, “Teachers and sponsors set up field trips throughout the year that correlate with what’s being taught.” She added, “Teachers must get approval through the high school principal before planning any steps. Students may not have a D or F unless approved by that teacher.”
Math teacher Nikki Kisling said that setting up a field trip even goes beyond just getting the principal’s approval. “We contact the place we want to attend, ask for possible dates, and then check those against the school calendar to avoid conflicts.” This helps make field trips accessible for more students.
Many teachers say the benefits of field trips go far beyond the classroom. Overstreet said these trips make a lasting impact on students. She stated, “Students often gain a deeper understanding when they experience concepts in real-world settings.” Overstreet added, “I have seen many students choose career paths or even secure jobs as a result of field trip experiences.”
Kisling stated that field trips can have different purposes. “Some field trips are incentives to motivate students, while others allow students to interact with things that directly relate to their interests or future careers.” She also shared that these trips can help strengthen students’ relationships with their teachers.
This year, Fair Grove has had a wide variety of field trips. Overstreet’s Career and Business Prep class takes one trip each semester. These include trips to local businesses and even national companies like Convoy of Hope.
Students see the field trips not only as a way to escape the classroom but also as an opportunity to get real-world experience. Senior Lakyn Sadler says, “I think field trips are significantly important because they give students a chance to learn outside of a classroom setting.” Sadler added, “Not only does a field trip get students out of their chairs and out of the classroom, but it is also a fun, memorable way to learn about the subjects they’re being taught.”
Overall, many members of the Fair Grove district view field trips as valuable in many ways. Overstreet expressed, “Field trips serve as a valuable extension of classroom learning. I strongly believe that students often gain a deeper understanding when they experience concepts in real-world settings.”
