Field trips can be really fun and educational for kids of all ages. They can be inspired by a visit to the museum, become excited about science and math, maybe even boost their self-confidence.

Unfortunately, they can also be cost-prohibitive for many school districts in the Hudson Valley.

About a year ago, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that grants were available throughout New York for K through 12 grade school teachers to book a field trip to one of the many NY State Parks or historic sites. According to the Governor's office, 750 field trips were funded in the first year of this program and the second year promises to fund even more.

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo recently announced that funding for “The Connect Kids to Parks Transportation Grant Program’ has been doubled from $500,000 to $1 million for the 2017-2018 school year.

How does the program work? It's pretty simple, the program will reimburse the school district for bus costs, tolls, bus entry fees, as well as any program fees, up to $750. We are lucky to have so many unique historic and recreational sites throughout New York, which can bring history alive to our students.

For additional information as well as the application, click here. Applications will be available July 1, 2017.

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