Fifth Grade Parents:
We hope you’ve had an excellent start to the school year. We have an exciting Cultural Expeditions trip planned, one your son will remember for years to come, especially as he grows in his understanding of government and the history of our nation. Below you will find a few announcements and reminders about the Washington D.C. and Philadelphia Trip:
Confirmation
This email confirms your son’s attendance on the Washington D.C. and Philadelphia trip.
Trip Leaders:
Tony Rudzena, Palmer Albertine, Jackson Boyd, Chris Oliver, Paul Warner, and Alice Ball.
Permission Form and Waivers
Please complete the online trip permission form by October 10.
Billing
The remaining trip amount after the deposit will be billed to your account and is due 10/1. If meeting these deadlines creates a challenge, please contact our business office.
Packing List
Boys will follow the PDS dress code while traveling. We ask that each boy bring a PDS hoodie or long sleeve PDS shirt for a couple of group pictures.
Each student is to have one suitcase and one backpack. The average temperatures in Washington D.C. for early November are: 64°F (High) and 46°F (Low). Please be mindful of the temperatures as you pack for the trip.
- Backpack
- Raincoat / poncho (no umbrellas)
- We will take two group photos while on the trip in PDS attire. We will notify the boys of the days they are to wear PDS attire. We ask that each boy bring a PDS hoodie or long sleeve PDS shirt.
- Each day of the trip will follow PDS dress code.
- 1 pair comfortable walking shoes
- Sleeping attire
- Spending money (small bills if possible) / secure wallet
- Toiletry items (toothbrush, deodorant, shampoo, brush/comb).
- Camera
- Medication (if needed) in ziploc bag labeled
THINGS NOT TO BRING
- Pillows
- Blankets
- Sleeping bags
- Phones / tablet / computers
Washington D.C. Questions Drop-in
While most questions regarding the trip are outlined in the FAQ, we will hold a brief drop-in time with trip leaders for clarity about any questions on Wednesday, October 25th at 7:45am in the Hussey Commons.
Flights
Flight Departure – Southwest
- WN2129 5 NOV 2023
- MEM 7:40AM (Depart) to ATL 10:00AM (Arrive)
- WN104 5 NOV 2023 ATL
- 11:00AM (Depart) to DCA 12:45PM (Arrive)
Flight Return – Southwest
- WN2014 10 NOV 2023.
- DCA 3:20PM (Depart) to ATL 5:20PM (Arrive)
- WN3108 10 NOV 2023.
- ATL 7:40PM (Depart) to MEM 8:05PM (Arrive)
Hotel
Crystal Gateway Marriott
1700 Richmond Hwy
Arlington, VA 22202
Remind App
Pictures of the boys’ experiencing Washington D.C. and Philadelphia will be sent via the Remind app. Please text 81010 with message: @pdswa or click this link
Bike Assessment
Boys will tour the various monuments by bike, making it an enjoyable way of taking in the sights and learning about the history of the monuments. To ensure each boy is comfortable riding a bike we will hold a brief assessment of bike skills on campus. This tour requires basic riding skills and is led by biking guides trained in taking groups around Washington D.C.
Wreath Laying Ceremony (Essay Contest)
Each year, four PDS boys have the high honor of participating in the Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery. Please find the information regarding the contest on the trip page on the website. Entering the essay contest is optional.
Next Communication – October
Another communication regarding the trip will be sent mid-October with room assignments and any remaining forms to be completed.
