Despite an earlier than usual start, eighth grade students excitedly arrived at King School on Thursday, September 8, for their start-of-school overnight trip. This year’s trip marked a welcome return to tradition after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Historically an excursion to Washington, D.C., the middle school team decided to shift the trip to Philadelphia, reducing travel time and allowing more time to be spent experiencing the city and its offerings.

The 72 students and eight faculty chaperones had a packed itinerary. After arriving on Thursday, the group visited the Constitution Center and the Ben Franklin Institute before an evening baseball game between the Philadelphia Phillies and the Miami Marlins. Friday featured a walking tour that included visits to Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House, the Ben Franklin Underground Museum, and Christ Church. The trip concluded with a visit to the Museum of the American Revolution.

Eighth grade team leader and history teacher Ken Lewis noted that the large group was engaged throughout the entire trip, which was particularly commendable given the hot weather. Additionally, Lewis remarked, “Most students look at this trip as a highlight of their eighth-grade year. It is an educational experience, but more so, it is an opportunity for the students to renew their relationships from the past school year, and also for our new students to meet new friends and forge new relationships.”