Frequently Asked Questions

How much do Virtual Field Trips (VFTs) cost? Virtual Field Trips are free for all schools and students.

Who should attend a VFT? The Center's content and exhibit is tailored to students in grades 5-12 in Washington State and the Pacific Northwest. At this time, we are not scheduling VFTs for schools/groups outside of the Northwest. Please visit the Association of Holocaust Organizations' (AHO) membership database to find a local center or museum near you.
Students should have some previous study of the Holocaust; a VFT does not serve as the first introduction to the topic. The Holocaust Center will provide a guide and lessons to prep and debrief the experience. In addition, consider browsing our menu of Best Practices lesson plans for teaching this subject. If additional suggestions or resources are needed, just let us know!

How many students can you accommodate in a VFT? We can accommodate any group size on a Virtual Field Trip via Zoom.

How long is a VFT? The virtual visit is a minimum of 45 minutes, which includes time for Q&A. Please allow for a few extra minutes at the beginning to set up the call and discuss any last minute considerations. If the class would like to dedicate more than the minimum 45 minutes, please use the request form to indicate the start and end of the full potential time slot (such as the start and end of the class period).

What happens in a VFT? Our Virtual Field Trips are designed to be interactive and engaging. Docents and a volunteer or staff member collaborate to present a multimedia experience within our new 3D, interactive scan of the Holocaust Center's exhibit "Finding Light in the Darkness." This VFT experience is immersive and feels as if you are truly inside the Center! It includes images, artifacts, videos, and more -- all primary sources from the Holocaust era. A special emphasis is made on local Washington State Holocaust survivors and their accounts, connecting the Holocaust to the world we live in today, and discussing what students can do to take positive action in their communities. There is always time for questions from students, as well as engagement within the chat.

How far in advance do I need to schedule a VFT? We appreciate requests that are at least three weeks in advance -- but will make every effort to accommodate all requests.

What should teachers/students do to prepare? Once the Virtual Field Trip is scheduled, we will send you information to share with your students about expectations, and making the most of a VFT. We will also provide post-field trip debrief suggestions.

What days are you available for VFTs? Monday - Friday from 9am - 5pm.