![Fifth Graders Explore Kennedy Space Center on an Unforgettable Overnight Adventure]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1764767872/jrcucide0dwv81yawsyw/FifthGradersExploreKennedySpaceCenteronanUnforgettableOvernightAdventure2025.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1764767872/jrcucide0dwv81yawsyw/FifthGradersExploreKennedySpaceCenteronanUnforgettableOvernightAdventure2025.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1764767872/jrcucide0dwv81yawsyw/FifthGradersExploreKennedySpaceCenteronanUnforgettableOvernightAdventure2025.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1764767872/jrcucide0dwv81yawsyw/FifthGradersExploreKennedySpaceCenteronanUnforgettableOvernightAdventure2025.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1764767872/jrcucide0dwv81yawsyw/FifthGradersExploreKennedySpaceCenteronanUnforgettableOvernightAdventure2025.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1764767872/jrcucide0dwv81yawsyw/FifthGradersExploreKennedySpaceCenteronanUnforgettableOvernightAdventure2025.jpg","width":2200}])
Canterbury’s fifth graders returned from an extraordinary two-day journey to the Kennedy Space Center on November 19–20, 2025, an experience filled with hands-on learning, big discoveries, and memories to last a lifetime.
Throughout the trip, students explored the iconic Rocket Garden, toured interactive exhibits, and visited the Astronaut Hall of Fame. One of the most memorable moments came later that night as they unrolled their sleeping bags beneath the Space Shuttle Atlantis, an opportunity few visitors ever get.
“I think the highlights of the trip were seeing the Atlantis space shuttle—the real one!—and walking around the Rocket Garden,” shared Siddhi C. '33 “It was awesome to go on this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Sleeping under Atlantis was so exciting, even if it was a tiring day!”
Lydia D. ’33 added, “It felt unreal and was breathtaking. I also loved hanging out with teachers and friends.” Dylan P. '33 agreed, saying, “Sleeping under the Atlantis was so beautiful—it was my favorite part of the trip!”
Blake E. '33 highlighted some of the interactive activities: “I loved when we were introduced to the shuttle Atlantis and watched the presentation lift off the screen—it was unexpected and amazing. I also had fun racing down the slide and building bridges with my team to see how much weight they could hold. My team held 12 pounds until it fell!”
The itinerary was packed with adventure, from exploring rocket ships and touring exhibits to group games and even gift shop visits. Lilyah R. '33 recalled, “We explored the rockets, had dinner, went down a slide, played games, and then got ready for bed. The next day, we packed our bags, went on a bus tour, shopped, and had lunch—it was tiring but so much fun!”
“It was wonderful to see our students learning, bonding, and representing Canterbury so well,” shared Head of Middle School Cara Summit.
From discovering the past and future of space exploration to strengthening friendships and curiosity, this year’s trip truly captured the spirit of adventure and wonder.