Ace Smith
The inside of Newark public library
Usually, no matter what kind of student you are, the words “field trip” are enough to make you leap out of your seat. Who wouldn’t be excited? It’s a day to miss class (though some unlucky students might miss a quiz or test), and a rare chance to scroll through your phone guilt-free during the bus ride. Typically, when a trip is announced, students are told exactly what to expect: where we’re going, what we’ll do, and why. But that wasn’t quite the case for the AP U.S. History or APUSH I and II students this fall.
When the trip was first presented, we were told two main things: it would take place at the Newark Public Library, and Ken Burns–yes, the Ken Burns–would be there, along with other New Jersey representatives.
For anyone passionate about history or film, Ken Burns is a household name. His documentaries, such as The American Revolution, The Dust Bowl, The Vietnam War, and The American Buffalo, are staples in American historical storytelling. To say we were thrilled would be an understatement. Both students and teachers agreed that his presence would be the highlight of the day.
The trip was set for September 17th, 2025, a fitting date, marking the anniversary of the U.S. Constitution’s signing in 1787. The day’s program revolved around the Revolution and the founding principles of American democracy. Activities included analyzing documents, reflecting on the five core principles of the Constitution (popular sovereignty, federalism, separation of powers, limited government, and individual rights), and identifying whether these ideals are upheld today. Students also had opportunities to discuss under-appreciated historical figures and their contributions. Participation even came with candy rewards, although not everyone was lucky enough to receive theirs. One APUSH II student, Desmond McCue, remains particularly disappointed over the two lollipops he was promised but never received.
Speaking to students after the trip, the reactions were mixed.
“I can’t say I loved or hated it. The activities were definitely things I could’ve just done in class, which made it feel like a waste of a school day, especially since I’d have to make up other work later. The environment was nice, professional, and educational, but it just wasn’t fun apart from learning.” -Ace Smith, an APUSH I student
Ace explained that he didn’t really know what to expect going in: “I knew it was about Constitution Day and that we’d see other APUSH students from across the state, but that’s all I knew. I felt like I was going in blind.”
Many agreed that the lack of information made the trip underwhelming. While the intention was to provide an enriching educational experience, some students felt it simply rehashed lessons they’d already covered.
On the other hand, Angel O’Leary, an APUSH II student taught by Mrs. Kane, had a more positive outlook: “Once we got to the library, it was fun. It felt like a review of last year’s material, and I liked hearing how other students shared their perspectives.” When asked what stood out the most, she didn’t hesitate: “The bus ride.”
And she wasn’t wrong, as that was its own adventure.
The morning of the trip, both APUSH classes gathered at the main entrance, excited about the trip. From Gateway to the Newark Public Library, the drive should have taken about two hours, traffic permitting. But as anyone familiar with the I-295 South knows, things rarely go as planned. The bus ride was met with a maze of detours, missed exits, and frustrating loops on and off the Turnpike. By the time we arrived, we were one of the last schools to reach the library.
Unfortunately, because of the delays and the need to get back by the 2:37 dismissal bell, we missed out on meeting Ken Burns entirely. After all the hype, it was a bit of a letdown.
The return trip, however, was much smoother. We miraculously dodged afternoon traffic and enjoyed around a total of four and a half hours of free time on the bus: talking with friends, watching videos, listening to music, studying for upcoming tests, or simply catching up on sleep. In hindsight, that bus ride might have been the best part of the day.
In the end, opinions on the trip remain divided. Was it worth spending a full school day traveling just to arrive late, rush through activities, and miss the guest of honor? Maybe not. But despite the hiccups and missed opportunities, the experience was memorable in its own right: a blend of education, chaos, and laughter that only a school field trip could deliver.