Seeing Greensboro's potential from my Title 1 school, I knew students lacked access to local history. New video tech sparked "Destination Wednesdays": weekly virtual field trips! Using children's books, we explore hidden gems. It's about breaking down barriers & fostering a love for learning through real-world exploration, all within our classroom walls.
Our team, including a media specialist, instructional coaches, and a community liaison, plans virtual field trips. We review the calendar, plotting visits to hidden gems across the city. Each location prioritizes cultural relevance, equity, and broader themes. From landmarks to museums, these sites spark curiosity. We then partner with operators for smooth virtual visits.
On Wednesdays, excitement buzzes! I grab my selfie stick, drive to the chosen location, and set it up to capture its essence. With a carefully chosen children's book connecting to the site, I share the story and its features. Students watch the live stream in their classrooms, captivated by the adventure on the projector screen.
Each visit is recorded and edited, then shared with families for all to experience.
Inspired by "Destination Wednesdays," a movement has blossomed! Schools across our community are replicating the format. Live announcements and recorded field trips bring local gems to life, sparking curiosity in students everywhere. Local news has caught wind, sharing the program's impact on our community. This spark has even ignited our students! Armed with smartphones and a thirst for adventure, they're venturing out to explore their own hidden corners. These mini-explorations, captured and shared with the school community, become bridges of connection and learning.
Inspired by "Destination Wednesdays," bring virtual field trips to your school! Work with a team to find hidden gems near your school. Secure virtual access with site contacts beforehand. Then, grab your phone/tablet and selfie stick to live stream the adventure! Set up a device in your classroom so students can watch you explore live.
