For years, the eighth grade Washington, D.C. trip was a rite of passage for Granby Memorial Middle School students. For many, it was the first time away from home and the first time visiting our nation’s capital. Many alumni have fond memories of trips to Washington, D.C, and still have the souvenir picture that each student received of their class on the U.S. Capitol steps. Unfortunately, due to Covid the Washington D.C. trip hasn’t happened in the past three years. However, for the current eighth-grade class, the Washington D.C. trip is back on the calendar for spring 2023 and the planning and excitement have begun.
This spring’s trip is planned for May and will be three days in length. The students will explore the various monuments and memorials, visit the Smithsonian Natural Museum of American History, National Zoo, and Museum of Natural History. They will tour the U.S. Capital, the White House for a photo opportunity, and the U.S. Supreme Court and the Library of Congress. Finally, they will visit Arlington Cemetery and see the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier before returning to Granby.
Pre-Covid, the middle school would begin fundraising to help defray the trip cost in sixth grade. However, the current eighth-grade class was in fifth grade when Covid hit and the past few years have been far from normal. This has hindered planning and fundraising. It wasn’t until late this summer that the return of the Washington, D.C. trip was confirmed and announced.
Granby eighth graders— the Class of 2027—are looking for community support to help bring down the overall cost of the trip so that all students have the opportunity to participate. Without financial assistance, the cost per student will be more than $700 each. Granby residents that would like to assist can donate via the direct donations link below. The Class of 2027 is also hoping there are local businesses that are willing to help with financial support. So far, the class has held dine-out events at The Grill at Copper Hill and Four Dads Pub. Many of our local businesses have ties to the Granby school system either by having children in the schools or by being alumni who had the opportunity to attend the Washington, D.C. trip and have fond memories of the experience. Donations are tax-deductible. If you have questions, please email GMMSWashingtonDCTrip@gmail.com
To make a donation, please visit https://www.myschoolbucks.com/ver2/prdembd?ref=ZZHFPBB22104CAU_ZZ5W645ALAPVEFD