This October, Ledyard High students stepped out of the classroom and into a world full of secrets. From hidden lessons in barnyards to mysteries of the tide pools, these field trips weren’t just about seeing new places; they were about uncovering the unexpected, the surprising, and sometimes the downright mysterious. Behind every corner, behind every lab coat, behind every stage curtain… secrets were waiting to be discovered.  

In the Ag Small Animal and Livestock Program, students peeked behind the barn doors to witness artificial insemination on two sheep and three goats. However, the adventure didn’t stop there. Students also visited The Big E, the largest event on the East Coast and the fourth largest fair in North America. While exploring the fair, students uncovered its many hidden delights from the educational wonders of the Farm-A-Rama and Storrowton Village Museum to the international showcases. With thrilling attractions, tasty foods, and countless opportunities to learn, The Big E was a treasure trove of secrets and surprises, offering students a firsthand look at agriculture, culture, and entertainment all in one vibrant setting. The Big E wasn’t just a fair; it was a living classroom where hidden lessons awaited behind every corner.  

At the music workshop, students cracked the code of conducting, practiced leading each other, and explored the hidden patterns of sheet music. Later, the UConn Chamber Singers revealed the secret magic of harmonies in a private performance. Senior Victoria Vidal described it perfectly: “It was super fun.” 

Eastern Point in Groton became a place of exploration and discovery.  Early College Experience (ECE) Marine Biology tested their engineering secrets in a cardboard boat competition, winning second place after three weeks of preparation. Junior Jackson Grimm said, “he put his blood, sweat, and tears into the race.” Meanwhile, Marine Biology hiked across Pine Island in Groton, uncovering the hidden chemistry of tide pools with water samples, pH tests, and oxidation readings. The ocean’s secrets were theirs to reveal.   

Shop classes visited companies like Electric Boat, Spirol, Porter and Chester, learning about careers and college pathways that are often hidden from everyday view. Students discovered that behind every machine and every project lies a story and a potential future.  

At Mystic Cinemas, AP US History students watched “Hamilton” and saw history come alive, previewing their next unit. “It was cool to make the connection between a movie I can watch and the information I’m learning in class,” junior Sylar Cimimo noted. History’s secrets weren’t just in textbooks; they were on the stage.  

The More Than Words Club met at Eastern Point Beach in Groton, bringing freshmen together and spreading the initiative across Connecticut. The real secret? Connection, conversation, and community are often the most powerful lessons of all.  

From barnyard science to Broadway, from hidden chemistry in tide pools to the secrets of leadership and music, Ledyard High’s November field trips proved that the best lessons are sometimes the ones waiting to be uncovered. 

Natalie Burdick, Staff Writer

Senior Natalie Burdick is a staff writer for the 2025-2026 Colonel News site. She likes playing sports, including soccer, lacrosse, skiing, and sailing. She also enjoys being at the beach or in the woods!