Reflections on 25 Years of Leading Life-Changing Trips for 8th Grade Students
A Journey That Never Gets Old
by Tiffany Cross
This year marked my 25th time leading the 8th-grade trip to Washington D.C., Hershey Park, Amish Country in Lancaster, and New York City—and even after all these years, it still feels just as meaningful as the first time. Every group of students is different, and every trip brings its own surprises, challenges, and unforgettable moments. What’s stayed the same is how powerful this experience is—for the students, and honestly, for me too.
Washington, D.C., is always a strong start to the trip. Over the years, I’ve seen how standing in front of the Lincoln Memorial or walking through Arlington National Cemetery can really move these kids. For many of them, it’s their first time seeing these iconic places in person, and it always opens their eyes. Even after 25 years, I still feel something when we’re there. As a leader, it’s not just about getting them from one location to the next—it’s about helping them take in the meaning behind these places. I try to encourage them to ask questions, to reflect, and to really think about the history that surrounds them.
After the weight of D.C., Hershey Park always brings a welcome dose of fun. Watching the students let loose, ride roller coasters, and just be kids is a joy—even if it does mean tracking down lost sunglasses, snacks, or the occasional off-course group. At this point, I’ve got the rhythm of the park down to a science, but the kids always make it fresh. Their excitement is contagious, and it reminds me of how important it is to make space for joy and play, especially on a trip that’s otherwise packed with learning.
Our stop in Lancaster, in the heart of Amish Country, provides a quieter moment on the trip—and one that often surprises the students. It’s such a contrast to the busy places we visit, and it really gets them thinking about life without technology or constant noise. Over the years, I’ve had some great conversations with students about simplicity, tradition, and community while we’re there. Even after seeing it so many times myself, I’m still amazed at how this slower pace touches people and shifts their perspective.
Then, of course, there’s New York City—our grand finale. I’ve walked those same streets with 8th graders for 25 years, and the city never loses its magic. From Times Square and Central Park to Broadway shows and the 9/11 Memorial, NYC offers so much packed into a short amount of time. It’s fast-paced, crowded, and not always easy to navigate with a big group, but it’s also where I’ve seen some of the biggest moments of growth in my students. There’s something about being in the middle of such a massive, diverse city that brings out independence and curiosity in them.
Reflecting on 25 years of this trip, I realize how lucky I’ve been to share these experiences with so many young people. It hasn’t always been easy—there have been late nights, early mornings, weather hiccups, and all the unpredictable things that come with traveling with middle schoolers—but the rewards have always been worth it. Watching students grow, bond, and discover the world outside their usual routines is something I never get tired of. Each trip is a new adventure, and each group leaves me with memories I carry long after we return home.
Even after all these years, I still get excited packing my bag for this trip. It’s more than just a tradition now—it’s part of who I am as an educator and leader. And as long as I’m able, I’ll keep showing up for that early morning bus ride, ready for whatever the journey brings.
