Pasadena Fourth-Grader Wins National Contest, Earns Trip To Historic American Sites

Pasadena fourth-grader Mirabelle G. has earned a once-in-a-lifetime educational experience after winning a place in America250’s national “America’s Field Trip” contest.

The local student joins 74 other winners from across the country who will embark on immersive field trips to iconic American historical and cultural destinations this summer.

“America’s Field Trip is a transformative opportunity for students across the country to engage with our nation’s history in meaningful, lasting ways,” said Rosie Rios, Chair of America250. “Our tentpole programs are intentionally designed to be hands-on, educational and engaging.”

The free nationwide contest invited students in grades 3-12 to reflect on the question “What does America mean to you?” through writing and artwork submissions. Thousands of students from all 50 states, five U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia participated in the 2024-2025 competition. The 150 total awardees represent 41 states and four territories, selected by a panel of current and former educators.

Mirabelle and other first-place winners can choose from 14 specially-curated experiences providing once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to experience American history and national treasures up-close.

Options include private tours of Boston Revolutionary War sites, behind-the-scenes access to the National Air and Space Museum with a sleepover at the Smithsonian Natural History Museum, exclusive visits to the National Archives Vault, and tours of Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello. Other experiences include meeting the Hamilton cast on Broadway, storytelling under the stars at Mount Rushmore, exploring Yellowstone National Park, and candlelight tours at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge.

The 75 second-place awardees each receive $500 cash awards. BNY Mellon serves as the contest’s founding sponsor, with Discovery Education as the educational partner.

“The creativity and passion of these students encapsulates the future spirit of our nation,” said Jayee Koffey, Chief Enablement and Global Affairs Officer at BNY.

America250, the official national organization charged by Congress with commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States, designed the contest to help students connect with American history. This marks the second group of America’s Field Trip awardees, following a successful pilot program launched in 2024.