Partnerships, understanding and trust are the foundation of KC Field Trips (KCFT). In the initial stages of development, we focused on cultivating these foundational cores to make KCFT the field trip powerhouse it is today. The project began alongside the pandemic, and we pivoted to a position of support for institutions and teachers. The reset of remote learning and the climate of racial and political tension added intensity and depth to our discussions. Museums were able to go back to the drawing board with virtual experiences. Teachers needed outside of class support more than ever. KC Field Trips took shape in that space.

In our research we made a number of discoveries that helped us take shape:

Bridging the gap

• Common Language
• Shared expectation of labor and roles

Gaining Trust with Mutual Aid

• Provide metrics and meaningful connections to partners as a value add for them
• Simple and consistent support helps teachers build a relationship

Bottlenecks

• Time to search, schedule and sort through logistics
• Substitute teachers and buses are the most common red tape

Sources include interviews, focus groups, and educator surveys (design and results)

As a result of these numerous discoveries, we identified a crucial missing link: a third party bridge between field trip providers and schools. It was in this missing link that KCFT was developed to fulfill our crucial role. We now serve as the all in one space for field trip planning and execution for teachers; regardless of their school affiliation to help level the playing field in the education system.