At Lakewood Catholic Academy, travel is an invaluable part of our students’ education. As our middle school Saints prepare for exciting upcoming trips to New York City, Atlanta, GA, Montgomery, AL, and the eighth grade class trip to Washington, D.C. in the spring, we recognize the meaningful opportunities these experiences offer. From immersion in the world of theater on Broadway to exploring civil rights history in the South to visiting our nation’s capital, student travel fosters personal and academic growth which builds upon traditional classroom learning. At LCA, we believe the following benefits of student travel emphasize how these adventures can shape students’ character and enhance their developing worldview.
Benefits of Student Travel
- Broadened Perspectives
Travel exposes our students to diverse cultures, customs, and histories, fostering a deeper understanding of the world beyond Northeast Ohio. For example, the upcoming trip to Atlanta and Alabama will allow students to engage with pivotal moments in civil rights history, deepening their appreciation for social justice and the importance of empathy. As a matter of fact, educational trips have been scientifically linked to higher levels of empathy and understanding of different cultures.1 - Learning Beyond the Classroom
Our trips provide hands-on learning experiences that textbooks alone cannot offer. Our New York City trip will allow students to experience the thrill of Broadway performances and the vibrant life of the city, enhancing their appreciation for the arts. Similarly, the annual trip to Washington, D.C. offers our eighth grade Saints the chance to visit historical landmarks, reinforcing their understanding of American history in a tangible way. Research indicates that educational travel helps students translate abstract concepts from textbooks into tangible experiences, making learning more impactful.2 - Fostering Independence and Personal Growth
Traveling allows students to develop independence as they navigate new environments and make decisions away from home. The structured guidance provided by our teachers and chaperones ensures that while students gain confidence, they also feel safe and supported throughout their journey. This sense of independence and excitement transfers back to the classroom, as well. Studies show that traveling has been shown to increase students’ overall enthusiasm for learning.3 - Building Friendships and Lifelong Memories
The shared experiences during these trips play a key role in building friendships and creating lasting memories. As students explore new environments together—whether attending a Broadway show, learning about civil rights history, or visiting national landmarks—they form connections that extend beyond the classroom. These adventures foster teamwork and collaboration, leading to cherished stories and friendships that last long after the trips end. - Service, Social Justice, and Growing in Faith
Many travel opportunities incorporate elements of service and/or social justice, aligning with LCA’s mission to “instill in each student a lifelong commitment and ethical responsibility to the Catholic principles of peace, justice, equality, service and respect for all life.” By exploring significant historical sites and engaging in reflective discussions, students can see the impact of their faith in action.
Upcoming Trips
- New York City: October 4-6, 2024
A special trip for students involved in LCA’s Saints Showcase spring theatre production, where they will immerse themselves in the vibrant arts scene of Broadway by attending musicals, plays, and exploring the city’s diverse cultural offerings. - Atlanta and Alabama: October 11-13, 2024
This racial justice immersion trip will focus on the struggles and triumphs of the civil rights movement in America. - Washington, D.C.: April 11-13, 2025
An annual tradition for our eighth grade Saints, this trip will include visits to major historical landmarks and provide opportunities for bonding through shared experiences.
In Conclusion
Travel is a dynamic tool for academic, social, and holistic growth. As our students embark on journeys throughout the country, they will gain not only knowledge and experience but also deeper friendships and memories to cherish for years to come. We encourage our parents to support these travel opportunities and the many to follow, recognizing the invaluable benefits they bring to our Saints as they continue their educational journey.
References
- Florick, M., et al. (2021). Longitudinal Effects of Educational Travel on Academic Performance. Journal of Educational Psychology.
- Yurtdakal, M. (2021). The Impact of Educational Travel on Student Learning Outcomes. Journal of Educational Research.
- Angle, J. (2022). Place-Based Education: Engaging Students through Experiential Learning. International Journal of Science Education.
