My first field trip...as a teacher.

Last Thursday was my first field trip as a teacher. I had no idea what I was signing myself up for. A trip to RISD seemed harmless. Who would have thought I would be dying for food, water, and a chair.

The students on the Silver Team were going to the RISD museum in Providence and I was invited to go. They were going for their social studies class. I felt honored to be invited to attend the trip. I was also excited to hang out with my CT outside of the classroom.

Sadly, my CT has two seventh grade classes that she could not receive coverage for and because of that she was not able to go. Ms. Burns on the field trip all on her own. Who would be my buddy? Who would I learn from? Let’s face it this was a learning experience for me. I don't know how to take kids on a field trip. I was in for a treat.

By 10:00 I was ready for a comfortable chair, a coffee, and some food in my system. I could only imagine how the kids were feeling. Thankfully, the group of students I spent most of my day with were excellent. Of course, they had their moments, but I couldn’t have been happier with them.

There were a few students who thought they could do whatever they wanted because they were on a field trip and it was a gateway to no work. Mr. Audette knew this would happen, which is why he planned for each visit to include a small activity for the students. Had I known this I would have brushed up on my history- I truly hope I helped the students rather than hurt them.

Overall, the trip was a great way to get to know my students on a more personal level. At one point a student who I do not teach asked if she could transfer into my class. I had a lot of fun with them on the bus and waiting for each exhibit to allow us to enter.

The trip was definitely a success. It helped me see how much work really goes into a field trip and how hard teachers need to hold it together. If the teacher loses it then the whole trip will end up in chaos.