Boundary County Students Given the Opportunity to Discover Washington, D.C.

A five-day journey into America’s history and heritage

By Like Media Team

Boundary County Middle School students will get a once-in-a-lifetime chance to travel to Washington, D.C., in June 2026 and discover their nation's capital during a five-day educational excursion from June 7 to 11. Organized by Paula Burt and supported by a dedicated school staff team, the trip’s primary goal is clear: “to provide an educational yet fun trip for students to learn more about the history of our nation and see the heart of where our government works from.”

The schedule features visits to famous landmarks and historical locations. The group will tour the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial before exploring the White House and Capitol Hill, as well as multiple war memorials, including the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. The National Museum of Natural History, the Air and Space Museum, and the American History Museum, located within the Smithsonian insitution, are essential stops for visitors. “Probably one of my favorite places is Mount Vernon, to walk where George Washington himself built a home,” Paula shares.

A successful trip requires both dedication and organizational skills. Enrollment for the journey remains open until March 2026; thirty students have already registered. Fundraising plays a crucial role in making the trip accessible, and the group organizes various activities, including selling Krispy Kreme donuts and Little Caesars pizza kits, as well as hosting an online auction featuring student-offered services and treats. “I also encourage students to think about what they can do to help raise money on their own,” Paula adds, noting creative efforts like selling handmade crafts or offering services like lawn care and car washes.

The trip is open to students currently enrolled in grades 6-7, typically ages 11-13. Given the bustling urban environment of D.C., Paula emphasizes the importance of good behavior and the ability to follow instructions. “In the past trips, I have always been so impressed with how well our students from Bonners Ferry present themselves and behave,” Paula says, highlighting the positive feedback from tour guides.

The educational aspect of the trip is integrated into every stop, offering students an opportunity to learn in an engaging and relatable way.  Tour guides, often educators themselves, provide rich historical insights and context at each location. Paula notes, “The tour guides try to speak in terms that the students can understand,” ensuring the learning experience is engaging and relatable. Smithsonian Museums further enhance the trip with interactive activities that captivate students’ curiosity.

Paula’s dedication to this program is evident in her long-standing involvement. Having taken on the role at the request of a colleague, she collaborates with Mrs. Roemer and other staff members in Bonners Ferry to create a safe, well-organized, and enriching experience. Paula points out, “Having a tour bus drop you off at the front door without the hassle of D.C. traffic and parking, not having to worry about finding a place to eat every day, and having a personal concierge at the hotel is so nice.”

For more information or to sign up, contact Paula Burt at 360.780.0701 or visit WorldStrides.com/register using Trip ID 219220. This is more than a trip; it’s a journey into the heart of American history.

Check out more local stories here!