LAWRENCE, NEW YORK (NOVEMBER 2025)—Lawrence Middle School’s 8th-grade students took part in their annual field trip to Ellis Island, a hands-on learning experience designed to deepen their understanding of immigration and its lasting impact on American identity.
During the visit, students explored the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, where they examined the journeys of millions of immigrants who passed through its historic halls. The trip encouraged students to think critically about key themes, including:
● The immigration experience
● The Italian and Hispanic journey to the United States
● Language and identity in a new country
● A comparison of immigration “Then vs. Now”—exploring how patterns, policies, and experiences have evolved over time
To make the experience interactive and engaging, students participated in a scavenger hunt, guiding them through the exhibits and prompting them to discover stories and artifacts that illustrate the immigrant experience. The annual Ellis Island trip remains a highlight of the 8th-grade curriculum, reinforcing classroom lessons on immigration, identity, and cultural diversity while inspiring students to appreciate the enduring importance of America’s immigrant roots.
For more information about the Lawrence UFSD and the latest District news, please visit www.lawrence.org #LawrenceSTRONG
###
Photos 1-2: Lawrence Middle School’s Ellis Island Field Trip
