Greenwich United Way Is Helping Students Go On Washington, D.C. Trip

GREENWICH, CT — Thanks to an out-of-cycle grant of $30,000 from the Greenwich United Way, dozens of Greenwich Public Schools eighth graders will get to go on a spring field trip to Washington, D.C.

The grant will go toward trip tuition assistance and a stipend for each of the 80 qualifying students, who might not have been able to afford the approximately $809 cost of the trip, which does not include the additional cost of food and educational items.

The GUW, Greenwich Alliance for Education and the D.C. Committee worked together on the initiative.

"The Greenwich United Way is focused on narrowing the achievement and opportunity gap among Greenwich students and we recognize the impact that educational programs outside the classroom, such as the annual 8th grade field trip to D.C., can have in developing passionate, curious minds,said GUW CEO David Rabin, in a news release. "It’s imperative that every GPS student has access to the same learning opportunities and we are honored to issue this grant to ensure that is the case."

The annual "Beyond the Classroom" eighth grade trip to D.C. has been a tradition in the school district for more than four decades.

The trip directly corresponds with the eighth grade curriculum and covers the basic structure of government and democracy, and provides an introduction to the nation’s capital, and fosters a lifetime of civic engagement.

Additionally, the three-day trip serves as a social-emotional bonding milestone, builds community among students, and encourages adolescent mental health wellness.

"We are elated and profoundly grateful for this meaningful grant from the Greenwich United Way. This tremendously impactful commitment to our Greenwich Public Schools’ eighth grade students ensures that all students who want to attend this culminating middle school experience can, regardless of financial situation," said Gia Burton, the vice president of enrichment for Greenwich Public Schools Parents Teachers Association Council. "By supporting these students, the entire 8th grade is able to experience an indelible first-hand introduction to our nation’s capital thereby fostering a deeper understanding of our United States government and history while helping to encourage a lifetime of civic engagement."

Executive Director of Greenwich Alliance for Education Julie Faryniarz said that making educational opportunities accessible for all GPS students has been a focus of the Alliance's work.

"Thanks to the Greenwich United Way for filling in the gap to get our eighth graders to DC for this shared capstone experience," she added.

For those interested in supporting this joint initiative for the next school year, contact Gia Burton, D.C. Committee at gia.burton@gmail.com.