STUDENT LIFE

Field Trips

Beyond the Walls of the School

As part of North Park Elementary School’s dedication to preparing students for lifelong learning, students in all grades participate in field trips ranging from nature programs and theater productions to cultural centers and museums. Students in 5th and 6th grade participate in Outdoor Education—a three-day team-building program at an overnight camp in Wisconsin. In 7th and 8th grade, students take trips to Washington, D.C. and Springfield, Illinois to learn about the workings of the federal and state governments as well as experience each city’s cultural offerings.

Community Service

Committed to instilling in the students a sense of responsibility as citizens of the world, NPES engages students in age-appropriate service-learning projects, such as assisting local shelters and food pantries and teaching basic computer skills to senior citizens. In 6th through 8th grade, students study a public-policy problem in depth and then develop an action plan to address the issue.

Outdoor Education

Every fall, our 5th and 6th graders head to Wisconsin for a few days of outdoor education. In a beautiful natural setting, the students hike, kayak, fish, and climb ropes courses together. They learn about nature and survival skills in case of emergency. Through it all, they join in team-building exercises that improve class unity and cooperation through their remaining years at NPES.