18Feb
11Feb
Exploring Black History in Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C., is home to some of the nation’s most important landmarks honoring Black history, culture and leadership. For students, the city offers a powerful look at the people and stories that shaped American history. From the arts and political activism to community spaces and cultural institutions, here are some of our favorite places for groups to experience during Black History Month and throughout the year. U Street: A Historic Black Cultural District Known in its prime as “Black Broadway,” the U...
14Jan
The Top 5 Destinations for Student Music Travel
Every year, student musicians across the country step beyond their rehearsal rooms to perform, learn and grow through travel. While every program’s goals are different, one thing is clear: some destinations consistently rise to the top. Based on Music Travel Consultants’ 2025 trips, these five destinations stood out as the most popular choices for bands, choirs and orchestras. From cultural hubs to performance-packed cities, here’s our countdown of the Top 5 destinations for student music travel, starting at No. 5...
14Jan
Carmel HS Choir and Terre Haute North Vigo HS Choir Take the Stage at EPCOT’s Candlelight Processional
In late December 2025, two Indiana choirs stepped into one of Walt Disney World’s most meaningful holiday traditions: EPCOT’s Candlelight Processional. Carmel High School Choir, directed by Katie Kouns, performed Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025, followed by Terre Haute North Vigo Choir, directed by Michelle Azar, on Monday, Dec. 22, 2025. Both groups performed once, but the experience carried the weight of a career highlight. Candlelight is not a typical theme park performance. It is a full-scale concert presentation of the Christmas...
20Jan
Gilroy Gardens: Where Students Can Perform, Learn and Play
For over 25 years, Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park has been a magical destination where students can experience a unique blend of education and entertainment. Nestled in the scenic town of Gilroy, California, this enchanting, 536-acre park offers a distinctive opportunity for teachers to inspire their students while enjoying thrilling attractions and performance opportunities. Michael Bonfante, the creator of Gilroy Gardens, loved trees—especially BIG ones. He dreamed of creating a park that would inspire young...
13Dec
Student Safety on School Trips
School trips are immersive learning experiences for students. Traveling to new places and doing hands-on exploring helps contextualize lessons from the classroom and deepens student understanding. While students are busy making life-long memories, student safety on school trips must be a constant priority. Here are several important safety tips to keep in mind to ensure a smooth experience for everyone on the trip. 1. Stay With the Group First and foremost when considering student safety on school trips, always stick with your...
23Mar
Berry Band Enjoys Workshop at Universal Studios
The Logansport HS (IN) Berry Band made a 4-day trip to Orlando to visit parks and participate in the STARS Program Workshop. Read below as MTC Trip Journalist Emily Gellinger takes us through the Berry Band's adventures. The band plays arcade games at the HUB after breakfast. The Hub allows students to change clothes and have a meal after the bus ride to Florida. The day slowly crept by on Friday, all the travelers anticipating the end of the day and the...
01Sep
Teacher of the Year Embraces French and Guard
From humble beginnings in a small town in Indiana, Brayton Mendenhall has achieved at every level of his performing and teaching career. Being named 2021 Ben Davis HS (IN) Teacher of the Year and a finalist for 2022 Indiana Teacher of the Year has given him validation that he is doing the right work. Mendenhall has been teaching French for 10 years, nine of which have been at Ben Davis. Quebec Parliament with Ben Davis...
01Sep
