P.E.A.R.L.

The Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad offered our K-8 students an exciting journey back in time aboard historic steam locomotives, providing hands-on learning about the logging and railroad industries that shaped the Pacific Northwest in the 1890s. Students experienced authentic train travel while discovering stories of the diverse people who lived and worked in logging camps and on the railroad, including the indigenous Nisqually people who were the first inhabitants of the Mt. Rainier region. The railroad features the world's largest collection of logging locomotives and has been sharing these important historical stories with over 1.6 million visitors since 1980. This educational adventure combined transportation history, local culture, and environmental awareness as students traveled through the scenic corridor connecting urban and rural communities around Mt. Rainier. Our students were able to see history come alive through interactive storytelling and authentic equipment, creating last

Our K-8 students experienced the magic of live Broadway theater with the touring production of Disney's The Lion King at Seattle's historic Paramount Theater. Students were captivated by the award-winning production's stunning costumes, innovative puppetry, and powerful musical performances that brought the African savanna to life on stage. The production provided rich educational connections to storytelling traditions, music, visual arts, and cultural appreciation while reinforcing themes of responsibility and courage. This theatrical experience exposed our students to professional-level artistry and inspired many to explore their own creative expression through drama, music, and the performing arts.

Our K-8 students experienced outstanding nature-based education at Mount Rainier Institute, located at the University of Washington's Pack Forest, where they participated in hands-on learning activities designed to nurture the next generation of environmental stewards. Students engaged in science-rooted outdoor education programs that connected them directly with the natural environment while learning about the ancestral homelands of the Nisqually, Puyallup, Muckleshoot, Yakima, and Cowlitz peoples. The outdoor classroom setting provided an immersive learning experience where students could observe, explore, and interact with Pacific Northwest ecosystems firsthand. This educational adventure fostered environmental awareness and stewardship while giving students practical experience in field science and ecological observation. The program successfully connected our students to nature in meaningful ways that will inspire lifelong appreciation for environmental conservation and scientific

Our K-8 students experienced the magic of Zoolights, a beloved 38-year holiday tradition at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium in Tacoma, where they strolled through a dazzling winter wonderland illuminated by over 1.5 million sparkling lights. Students explored themed light displays including the giant Pacific octopus, Narrows Bridges, and the magical tunnel of lights while participating in the fun tradition of hunting for Sasquatch throughout the zoo. This enchanting evening field trip provided students with a unique perspective of their local zoo transformed into a colorful holiday spectacle, creating lasting memories of community celebration and seasonal wonder. The outdoor walking experience allowed students to appreciate both artistic light design and the joy of shared holiday traditions that have brought families together in the Pacific Northwest for nearly four decades.

Our K-8 students experienced the explosive energy and creativity of STOMP, the internationally acclaimed percussion sensation, during their 30th anniversary tour at Yakima's historic Capitol Theatre. Students were amazed as the eight-member troupe transformed everyday objects like garbage cans, brooms, matchboxes, and hubcaps into magnificent rhythmic instruments, creating an utterly unique musical experience. This inventive and provocative performance demonstrated how music and rhythm can be found in the most unexpected places, inspiring students to think creatively about sound, percussion, and artistic expression. The pulse-pounding show captivated students of all ages with its witty and energetic approach to music-making, proving that conventional instruments aren't necessary to create powerful and memorable performances. This field trip exposed our students to innovative performing arts while encouraging them to explore rhythm and creativity in their own lives.

The talented rescue and shelter dogs of America's original Stunt Dog Show captivated our K-8 students with impressive performances including flying disc routines, high jumps, agility races, and choreographed demonstrations. Students observed these skilled canines showcase their abilities through positive training techniques, highlighting the incredible potential of rescue animals when given proper care and training. This entertaining performance, which has been touring for over 25 years, provided students with meaningful lessons about animal rescue, the importance of giving shelter pets second chances, and the bond between humans and animals. The show combined entertainment with education, leaving students with greater appreciation for animal welfare and the dedication required in positive training methods.

Pop-Up Movement's engaging staff introduced our PEARL students to the exciting world of circus arts through hands-on activities that allowed everyone to explore different performance skills and techniques. Students had numerous opportunities to try various circus arts activities, discovering new talents and building confidence as they experimented with different movement and performance elements. The interactive program encouraged students to step outside their comfort zones while learning about the discipline, creativity, and teamwork involved in circus arts. This fun and engaging field trip provided students with a unique physical education experience that combined artistic expression with physical activity, leaving everyone with smiles and new appreciation for the circus arts.