Situated in a prime location just outside Washington, DC, Stone Ridge offers students exceptional opportunities for hands-on learning and discovery through field experiences. This past fall, Lower School students in Kindergarten through Grade 4 embarked on seven engaging field experiences, each designed to complement their classroom projects and bring their learning to life. These experiences, as part of the Project Approach, inspire intellectual curiosity and foster a lifelong love of learning by connecting classroom lessons to the real world. 

The Project Approach, emphasizing student-led inquiry and exploration, is closely aligned with the spirit of Goal II, a deep respect for intellectual values. Students develop critical thinking skills, collaboration, and a stronger understanding of their academic pursuits as they engage in dynamic, hands-on activities.

Field experiences, a key component of the Project Approach, connect students with experts and resources firsthand, enriching their engagement with topics that spark their curiosity.

“Field experiences encourage students to observe, ask questions, and think critically about their surroundings,” explains Julie Thurston Ott ’99, Lower School Education Technologist and Instructional Support. “This active participation fosters deeper understanding and retention of information.”

The School’s proximity to Washington, DC, gives students access to a wealth of cultural, historical, and scientific institutions, all within an hour’s reach. From Smithsonian museums to government landmarks, national organizations, and leading colleges, the city and its surroundings provide a rich backdrop for meaningful learning.

Students easily engage with real-world examples that relate directly to their project work. Some examples of field experiences this year thoughtfully aligned with students’ classroom projects include:

• Grade 3’s project focused on communication and invention. Students visited Gallaudet University and learned more about assistive devices—such as hearing aids and cochlear implants for individuals with hearing challenges. They also spent time at the KID Museum in Bethesda, exploring problem-solving and innovation through the engineering design process.
• Kindergartners ventured to Croydon Creek Nature Center in Rockville to research their project on trees, observing native species and the animals that depend on them.
• Grade 2 students took an inspiring trip to the National Museum of American History to delve into their “Women at Work” project, learning about pioneering American women who created businesses and products to meet the needs of their time.

Other field experiences this year dedicated to enhancing project research include visits to the National Museum of the American Indian, the University of Maryland Extension Farm, and the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad, in addition to various on-campus site visits. 

“Field experiences encourage students to observe, ask questions, and think critically about their surroundings.” 

- Julie Thurston Ott ’99

These trips show how field experiences help students connect their learning to real-world situations, develop essential life skills, and spark curiosity. Outside the classroom, students practice independence, collaboration, and problem-solving while interacting with experts and peers and applying abstract concepts to practical scenarios.

Stone Ridge’s commitment to engaging children beyond the classroom builds a strong foundation for lifelong curiosity and exploration. By taking advantage of the incredible resources in and around Washington, DC, students develop agency, seeing themselves as active participants in their education and their community.

“With numerous museums, monuments, and government institutions, Washington, DC is rich in history and culture,” highlights Ms. Ott. “Exploring local landmarks helps students feel connected to their community and understand their role within it. This sense of belonging can foster civic responsibility and awareness.”

As the youngest Gators explore the richness of the DC area, they are developing skills, perspectives, and passions that will guide them for years to come. At Stone Ridge, the classroom extends beyond campus, and the world becomes the greatest teacher.