When the pandemic began in March 2020, field trips and group conferences were prohibited. However, 2022 has brought change, as mandates are being lifted and school-related outings are permitted once again. In the past months, many North groups have been able to attend large events, including the Student Association state conference, the Distributive Education Clubs of America state competition and North’s performing arts students’ upcoming trip to New York City. 

While both mask and vaccination requirements are being loosened for admittance into many spaces, band teacher Tom Torrento says that their trip in New York still has many of those mandates in place to keep those at the event safe for attendance and travel.

“The New York Philharmonic Orchestra venue is requiring two shots and a booster in order to gain admittance to the facility and they’re still requiring masking,” Torrento said. “We will be following all district guidelines as for travel as well as any of the current health [restrictions] and guidelines that are in place in New York City.”

As the return of field trip coincides with the loosening of mask mandates, SA Secretary Ben Sheffield feels the timing of their return was appropriate. He emphasizes their importance to the development of a group, and felt that the social distancing, masks and other precautions taken at both the SA and DECA conferences allowed everyone to feel comfortable and productive while in attendance. 

“It was a good time to permit field trips,” Sheffield said. “I felt safe attending both the Student Association and DECA conferences. Personally, I didn’t have any problems with the amount of people there.”

Field trips and conferences help create a community outside of the classroom. DECA advisor Brian Levinson stresses this idea, as everyone at the DECA conference was there to collaborate and learn about their common business interests. Students were able to connect with others from different schools, and have topics ready to discuss. 

“It’s a great way to network with other like-minded people and just to get to know each other better and build relationships,” Levinson said.

According to Torrento, whether it’s by establishing and growing bonds outside the classroom, or stepping out of comfort zones, field trips play a crucial role in students’ school experience and growth.

“There’s a lot of [growth] that happens as young adults when you get outside of your comfort zone and outside the bubble,” Torrento said. “It solidifies that family dynamic that we strive to achieve in the classroom everyday.”