The 2025 8th grade East Coast Trip was far more than an educational field trip; it was a journey of discovery, growth, and self-reflection. Over Spring Break, 30 middle schoolers explored historic landmarks, world-class museums, and iconic neighborhoods in Washington, D.C. and New York City. Along the way, they deepened their learning, strengthened friendships, and challenged themselves in new and meaningful ways.
Lead chaperone and Social Studies teacher Mr. Joshua Williams, who organizes the trip each year, says the experience is designed to extend far beyond academics. “They learn how to show up on time, how their actions affect others, how to be responsible and respectful, and how to live without their parents for a week,” he shared. “Those social skills are often more memorable than anything they learn inside a museum.”
To participate, students must demonstrate strong character and contribute positively in the classroom, ensuring a supportive and engaged group ready to take on the challenges and rewards of travel together.
The itinerary closely ties into the 8th grade curriculum. In Washington, D.C., students deepened their understanding of government and history through visits to the Capitol, the Smithsonian Museums, and Mount Vernon. “I learned that George Washington is buried at his house,” one student remarked, excited to connect classroom learning to real-world experiences.
A highlight of the D.C. visit was a meeting with alumna Georgette Furukawa ’97, who shared her inspiring journey from Mid-Pacific to national leadership roles, including her recent work with the Biden administration advocating for Asian Pacific communities. She spoke about her experiences after high school and college, emphasizing the skills she built at Mid-Pacific—particularly her commitment to service and leadership. Her message encouraged students to seize opportunities, pursue their passions with purpose, and make the most of their time at Mid-Pacific. Several students lingered after the session to continue conversations with her, inspired by her energy and the scope of her achievements.
In New York City, students tackled subway rides, explored Times Square, and experienced neighborhoods like Little Italy. Before seeing MJ the Musical on Broadway, they dined at Gayle’s Broadway Rose, where waitstaff, many of whom are aspiring performers, entertained with live songs. The show itself became a standout highlight with students singing along to familiar Michael Jackson hits and sharing stories of how the music connected to family memories.
Beyond academics, students took on real-world responsibilities with confidence, waking up early, managing their schedules, ordering meals independently, and learning to live respectfully with roommates. “I can wake up at 4 a.m.!” one student proudly shared, while another joked, “Never set your alarm to motivational speeches!”
Chaperones noted how well students handled the challenges of travel, praising their maturity, cooperation, and positive energy throughout the week. Even the group’s tour guide remarked on how respectful and courteous the students were compared to other school groups.
Visits to memorials, including the 9/11 Memorial, left deep impressions. One student, whose father is a first responder, offered personal insight, helping peers better understand the importance of service and sacrifice. These moments added a powerful, personal layer to the group’s learning, underscoring that history is not just about the past; it continues to shape lives and communities today.
Since 2005, the East Coast Trip has been a cherished Mid-Pacific tradition. Beyond sightseeing, it provides students with the chance to bond deeply with classmates, develop resilience, and experience life outside of Hawai‘i. As Mr. Williams reflected, “Years later, when I reconnect with alumni, it’s the 8th grade trip they always remember. It’s not just about museums or monuments—it’s about the friendships, the growth, and the memories they made together.”
For families considering this opportunity, the trip is much more than an educational tour. It’s a celebration of independence, curiosity, and a pivotal step in each student’s journey.