The Redeemer's School recently organized its first-ever middle school overnight field trip to New Orleans. It was a resounding success, with the students enjoying various destinations and creating lasting memories with their classmates. The itinerary for the trip was put together by Trek Travel, a company that specializes in providing high-quality travel experiences for groups.

Trip Destinations

Blaine Kern’s Mardi Gras World Tour

Enjoy sightseeing at this fantastic facility where all the floats are created, built, and stored for the annual Mardi Gras Parade

World War II Museum

Tour of the Museum Pavilions and to view the award-winning movie “Beyond All Boundaries” in the Solomon Theater

Steamboat Natchez Dinner Cruise

Enjoy a relaxing Jazz Cruise down the Mississippi River with a full buffet dinner

Audubon Zoo

Enjoyed all of the wonderful animal exhibits at the historic Audubon Zoo

Head of School, Mr. Menogan, said, "We chose the city of New Orleans because of its close proximity to Jackson and its vast array of things for our students to enjoy. Simply put; they loved it. We want our students to have a variety of fun and exciting educational experiences inside and outside of the classroom. A trip like this allows them to see some of the things they've learned about, or have heard about, as well as have an enjoyable time and hopefully create memories they’ll cherish. It was also a great way to cap off and celebrate their accomplishments throughout this school year.”

Middle School Teacher, Ms. Metcalfe, commented on the impact of the trip on the students, saying, "For many of our students, this was transformative. They gained a deeper appreciation for the world around them and the people who live in it.”

The students were excited to embark on this adventure, and for some of them, it was their first time staying overnight away from their parents or traveling to a different state. This made the trip even more unique, and the students embraced every opportunity to learn and grow.

The first stop was the Blaine Kern’s Mardi Gras Worlds of Costumes & Culture, where the students had the chance to learn about the history and significance of Mardi Gras. The museum's extensive collection of costumes, masks, and memorabilia provided a fascinating glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage.

Next on the itinerary was a visit to The National WWII Museum, where the students learned about the heroism and sacrifice of the soldiers who fought in World War II. They got to watch the Tom Hanks-narrated film “Beyond All Boundaries” in the museum’s 4D cinema, as well as explore the interactive exhibits and immersive displays for a deeper understanding of the impact of the war on the world.

One of the highlights of the trip was a cruise on Steamboat Natchez. The students were treated to live jazz music, dinner, and views of the New Orleans skyline at sunset. The experience was a unique way to enjoy the city's vibrant music culture and appreciate the natural beauty and power of the Mississippi River.

Seventh-grade student, Lila Crawford, shared her thoughts, noting that her favorite part was Steamboat Natchez, "I liked the sunset and the view of the water and buildings. I also enjoyed the hotel, it was very comfortable and the buffet had a nice breakfast selection. There was hot chocolate and the coffee was really good.”

Eighth-grade student Lila Eke also loved the Steamboat Natchez experience, mentioning why it was her favorite part, “The students could walk around the boat and experience the sunset. I enjoyed staying at the hotel and being in a different space. I also enjoyed the breakfast at the hotel and the dinner on the cruise.”

The final stop on the trip was the Audubon Zoo, where students had the chance to get up close and personal with a variety of exotic animals. The zoo's conservation efforts and commitment to animal welfare inspired them to think more deeply about the importance of protecting God’s Creation.

Director of Student Life, Mr. Akin, expressed his satisfaction with the trip, saying, "I think that the social impact this trip had on some of our students was profound. Even just walking up and down Canal Street and the riverwalk area, the opportunity to see different people from different walks of life being made in God’s image gives you a fuller picture of what life looks like outside Jackson or your day-to-day drive to school. It helps develop a different perspective and larger worldview that we hope they take with them when they leave.”

Chief Advancement Officer & Associate Head of School, Mr. Beasley, echoed these sentiments, saying, "Learning comes to life when you leave the classroom. Providing different experiences for our students is one way to enhance the basic educational offerings in our pursuit of excellence. Additionally, trips are exciting and fun. Allowing our students to make meaningful memories with their classmates and teachers absolutely translates into a positive school culture here on our campus.”

Sixth-grade student Landon Wright summed it up beautifully, “Steamboat Natchez was very fun and we got a beautiful view. I enjoyed everything, even the zoo. I know I said that that was my least favorite but I enjoyed all of it. I'm just grateful that we went to New Orleans.”