This fall, Zeta’s eighth-grade students took their learning beyond the classroom walls and into the heart of our nation’s capital — Washington, D.C. The trip was a highlight of their Z Journey, an opportunity that encourages students to build community, develop self-awareness, strengthen teamwork skills, and support independence and a growth mindset.

Throughout the visit, students immersed themselves in history — walking the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, exploring museums, and seeing firsthand the monuments and moments they’ve studied in class. 

The trip wasn’t just about exploring history; it was about living it. During their time in D.C., students took democracy into their own hands by holding their first-ever student government elections. From crafting campaign speeches to rallying their classmates’ votes, they demonstrated confidence, teamwork, and civic engagement in action.

As students celebrated their newly elected leaders, they carried with them lessons that extend far beyond textbooks: how to lead with integrity, collaborate with others, and use their voices to make a difference.

The D.C. trip was more than a field trip; it was a milestone. It represented growth, leadership, and the lifelong memories that come from learning by doing — the Zeta way.