When planning any field trip, it entails time and coordination. And when planning the annual 8th grade field trip, it also entails a fundraiser to guarantee it is executed memorably. One of the events that most 8th graders look forward to is the field trip to Traverse City, but before navigating up north, accomplishing this starts with soda cans and plastic bottles.

“The bottle idea actually came from the trip’s Parent Committee,” Clague ELA teacher Cheyenne Taylor said.

The PTSO initiated the bottle return fundraiser to relieve some of the costs, ensuring that all students are capable of attending the trip. And to achieve that goal, two more fundraisers will be organized later in the school year.

“The parent committee has been the biggest help this year,” Taylor said, “In the future, we will be looking to student council to assist with fundraising efforts.”

Many have already supported the fundraiser, like the 8th Grade Trip Committee, who have gathered bottles and cans from neighborhoods on Nov. 7. It is also encouraged, as another option for promoting funds, to make a personal donation by communicating with Taylor, in room 201.

“It is important that we have fundraisers because it can eliminate some financial pressures off of families.” Taylor said, “and allows for everyone to have an equitable experience during their 8th grade year.”

The field trip to Traverse City involves activities such as a water park and arcade, located at the Great Wolf Lodge—as well as a visit to the Sleeping Bear National Shoreline. But making this happen does not only need a fundraiser, it is also necessary to have a community willing to reassure this cause.

“The cougars raise almost $1,000 in returnables,” Taylor said. “I am shocked and blown away by the effort of students and the generosity of our community.”