(Dallas, TX) — A transformative new initiative is opening the door for tens of thousands of students to experience hands-on learning beyond the classroom.
Through Learning Voyages, more than 48,000 students across Dallas Independent School District will participate in STEM-focused field trips designed to connect classroom instruction with real-world experiences. The initiative, made possible through the support of Lyda Hill Philanthropies in partnership with the Dallas Education Foundation, is already bringing learning to life for students across the district.
The program will provide students in select grade levels the opportunity to visit some of Dallas’ leading educational destinations, including the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, Dallas Zoo, and the Environmental Education Center. These experiences are designed to reinforce STEM concepts through interactive, immersive learning environments.
By covering transportation, admission costs, and program coordination, the initiative removes many of the financial and logistical barriers that often prevent schools from organizing large-scale field trips.
Bringing Classroom Learning to Life
For many students, these visits represent more than just a field trip — they are opportunities to explore new environments, engage with hands-on exhibits, and see the real-world applications of what they are learning in school.
During a recent visit to the Dallas Arboretum, students explored plant systems, experimented with wind turbines, and engaged with interactive science stations, deepening their understanding of STEM concepts in a dynamic setting.
Programs like Learning Voyages are intentionally aligned with classroom curriculum, helping students make meaningful connections between academic content and real-world applications. These experiences not only enhance comprehension but also spark curiosity and inspire future pathways in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Expanding Access and Opportunity
A key goal of the initiative is to ensure equitable access to high-quality learning experiences for all students. By eliminating cost barriers and coordinating logistics at scale, Learning Voyages enables participation from students who may not otherwise have access to these opportunities.
More than 35% of Dallas ISD students are expected to participate in the program during its initial phase, with a long-term vision of expanding access to additional grade levels and subject areas in the future.
District leaders emphasize that these experiences play a critical role in helping students see what’s possible beyond the classroom — from future careers in STEM fields to a broader understanding of the world around them.
A Partnership Powering Student Success
The success of Learning Voyages reflects the power of collaboration between philanthropy, education, and community institutions.
Through the leadership and support of Lyda Hill Philanthropies, and in partnership with Dallas ISD and the Dallas Education Foundation, the initiative represents a shared commitment to expanding opportunity, strengthening academic outcomes, and preparing students for the future.
At Dallas Education Foundation, we are proud to support programs like Learning Voyages that create meaningful, lasting impact for students across the district — helping ensure every student has access to experiences that inspire learning, curiosity, and confidence.
Support Opportunities Like This
Initiatives like Learning Voyages are made possible through the generosity of partners and donors committed to student success.
Help expand access to transformative learning experiences: https://dallasedfound.org/donate
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Coverage by The Dallas Morning News:
https://www.dallasnews.com/arts-entertainment/lifestyle/2026/03/17/dallas-isd-program-to-send-48000-students-on-stem-field-trips-heres-why/
About the Dallas Education Foundation
The Dallas Education Foundation (DEF) is a registered 501(c)(3) organization and serves as the direct and designated philanthropic partner of Dallas ISD. With a mission to inspire community investment to accelerate student success, DEF focuses on economic mobility by supporting early learning, advancing literacy, driving postsecondary success, and championing educators. Learn more at dallasedfound.org and follow @dallasedfound on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, Threads, and YouTube.
About Dallas Independent School District
The Dallas Independent School District is continually preparing its students for college or a career. The district offers a competitive mix of innovative programs, choice programs, and instructional initiatives that support the increased academic achievement and the social and emotional development of its students. To learn more, visit www.dallasisd.org.
