For the past 17 years, I have been leading McCornack 5th graders and

their parents to the East Coast.  The parent group officially calls

themselves the “D.C. or Bust” group - a name that was created

17 years ago and has stuck.

As you view the East Coast Albums, you will understand the historic

focus that I try to maintain while touring.  Sometimes I am able to add

extra stops like Valley Forge, Fort McHenry, Baltimore National

Aquarium and perhaps a baseball game.

Over the years our itinerary has been fluid.  Some years we have

included places like New York City, Gettysburg, the Amish area of

Pennsylvania, Baltimore, Williamsburg, Jamestown, Monticello, etc. 

I always discuss itinerary options at the beginning of the year at an

East Coast informational meeting.  (Take a peek at the East Coast

2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012 photo albums below for a comprehensive view of our most recent trips.) Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. are always on the itinerary every year.

Curriculum that 5th graders have been studying all year align perfectly with this trip.  Not only do they study early American History, but they also learn about famous American heroes and current event issues.  This trip enables students to not only talk the talk, but they are now able to walk the walk of so many famous people, places and events related to our country’s lively history as well as present day happenings.

I also give evening history talks to interested parents.  Parents volunteer to host the informal get together at their homes.  Books are recommended that can be read with your child or for your own information.  I also meet with the “D.C. Kids” after school for about six weeks toward the end of the year for extra prep before we take off.

We enjoy having our own bus and driver throughout the entire trip.  Lorenzo has been my driver for the past 15 years.  He is a gem!  I also like to keep my other experienced city guides as much as possible. 

The trip cost is all inclusive - transportation, meals, hotels, entry fees, air fare, etc.  Parents that choose to fundraise throughout the year are able to reduce at least 1/3 to 1/2 of a trip cost - depending upon how much time is put into those endeavors. We have also had several students earn their entire trip through fund raising. We usually meet about once a month to plan fund raising projects.

For more information, please don’t hesitate to ask me.  I never tire of sharing information about our East Coast adventures!