USII’s field trip was a wonderful opportunity for students to step outside the classroom and connect what we’ve been learning in our curriculum to real-world artifacts and lived experiences. Our first stop was Paterson Falls, a national historic site where students were able to see firsthand the natural landmark that served as a catalyst for America’s industrial revolution. At the Paterson Museum, our guide Amber walked students through exhibits on Paterson’s silk industry, locomotive manufacturing, and immigrant communities, giving them a tangible connection to the history we’ve been studying together. After a lunch break at Burger King, we concluded the day at the Muth Museum, where thought-provoking discussion on the history of The Negro National League sparked some of the most genuine and meaningful discussions. Students were also privy to the inner workings of the film industry as we looked on as Hinchliffe Stadium hosted a film crew for the day. While it was a tiring day, trips like today are a powerful reminder of how much deeper students can engage with history when they’re able to experience it beyond the classroom.