Field Trip Scholarships

Learning outside the classroom is critical to a child's academic development. Field trips help develop curiosity, creativity, and innovation, which are among the most essential skills for students today. A recent study from the University of British Columbia demonstrates that children who spend time outside are more likely to cherish and protect nature when they become young adults. Field trips also help teachers enliven the curriculum and engage students in learning.

The Jennifer Russell Anderson Explorer Fund benefits economically disadvantaged schools in Middle Tennessee public school systems by meeting the growing need to help fund educational enrichment programs outside the classroom.

About the Program

The Jennifer Russell Anderson Explorer Fund provides grants to help fund free field trips for economically disadvantaged school districts. This program is contingent on available funds made possible by private gifts and grants.

The program provides one grant per school per school year for a free field trip program for up to 4 classes on-site at Owl’s Hill, a synchronous virtual program, or a Nature Comes Calling outreach program in your school (additional mileage fee may apply if outside 20 mile radius).

Applications are reviewed on a “first-received, first-funded” basis until all available funds have been awarded. Funding is generally for programming and materials only. Upon notice of funding approval, schools are responsible for making transportation arrangements and finalizing field trip reservations.

Eligibility

Participation is limited to K-12 schools in Middle Tennessee public systems which appear on the most recent Department of Education Title I Schools list. Field trip must occur in the current school year.