What was the name of America250’s student contest for grades 3–12?

America’s Field Trip was America250’s student contest for grades 3–12.

The multi-year program invited students in those grades to submit artwork and essays responding to the question, “What does America mean to you?” Its format gave young people a direct role in the anniversary rather than treating them only as spectators.

The program connected creative expression with visits to historic and cultural places. Winning or selected students were associated with educational experiences and trips to landmarks, helping link classroom reflection with the country’s physical history.

America’s Field Trip should not be confused with America Gives, which promoted volunteer service, or Our American Story, which gathered personal accounts. All three programs used broad participation to support America250, but they served different purposes: student creativity, community service, and storytelling.