Field Trip Assistance Grant

The Lizzadro Museum is proud to offer financial support for students in the Chicagoland area to visit the Museum through the Field Trip Assistance Grant. This opportunity allows eligible schools to meet their curriculum needs while providing an engaging and educational experience outside of the classroom. We are committed to offering earth science content that aligns with Next Generation Science Standards, all while fostering a fun and inclusive atmosphere for students.

Why should your school visit the Lizzadro Museum?

Bring your students to the Lizzadro Museum for an unforgettable, hands-on learning experience where art and earth science come together. Our tours and programs are designed to spark curiosity, deepen understanding, and align with Next Generation Science Standards. Led by geologist Sara Kurth, students will explore the science behind gemstones and stone carvings while experiencing the wonders of nature in a way that’s both educational and engaging. It’s the perfect opportunity to inspire your students and bring science to life outside the classroom!

Next Generation Science Standard is a registered trademark of WestEd. Neither WestEd nor the lead states and partners that developed the Next Generation Science Standards was involved in the production of, and does not endorse, this product.

Our programs specifically meet the following Next Generation Science Standards:

  • Structure and Properties of Matter: Exploring the physical properties of rocks, minerals, and gemstones.

  • Earth’s Systems: Examining how natural processes shape the planet’s surface.

  • Engineering Design: Learning how humans create and design stone carvings using natural resources.

  • Earth’s Place in the Universe: Investigating the role of geological processes in shaping Earth over time.

  • Earth and Human Activity: Understanding human impact on Earth’s resources and natural systems.

These standards are integrated into engaging activities that make science come to life for your students.

What is included:

  • Admission costs for all students, teachers, and chaperoning adults
  • Bus cost reimbursement (NOTE: The Museum does not pay for buses directly. All schools are required to submit invoices after their visit)
  • One “bag o’ rocks” souvenir per student

Who is Eligible:

  • Title 1 schools and/or schools with 50% or more students receiving reduced/free lunch
  • Schools within the Diocese of Joliet. A complete list of schools is available here

How do I apply:

Terms and Policies

  • Grants are dispersed to eligible applicants on a first come, first serve basis.
  • Limit of one application per eligible school per academic year.
  • Eligible institutes must be accredited through state or government organizations including but not limited to ISBE, ABHE, or similar organizations.
  • Tours are available Tuesdays through Fridays with a start time of 10:00 a.m. and a last start time of 3:30 p.m.
  • Availability is limited and will be determined based on eligibility. The Field Trip Assistance Grant includes the cost for bus transportation, student and chaperone admissions, and souvenir “bag o’ rocks” for each participating student.
  • Groups must have a minimum of 20 participating students per day to be eligible to receive the grant. Classes can be combined to meet the minimum requirement.
  • Groups over 70 participants must schedule over 2 time slots. These can be on the same day or over several days.
  • Eligible schools must meet the requirements per the application. Proof of eligibility is required upon submittal of application.
  • Field trips must be booked a minimum of one month prior to requested date. The months of October through February have the most open availability, although teachers are free to request any dates during the academic year.
  • Schools must arrange their own transportation and will be reimbursed for their approved grant amount. Bus fees must be disclosed within application. Field Trip grant funds cannot be used to pay for bus cancellation fees or penalties if a group cancels the visit or fails to uphold their agreement with the bus company. The Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art will not pay bus companies directly.
  • Schools must invoice the Lizzadro Museum within 30 days following the trip to receive reimbursement. The invoice must be on school letterhead, display the school address, and reflect the date of the field trip as well as the total for bus transportation. Handwritten or email invoices are not acceptable, although you may send a pdf or jpeg copy of your invoice attached to the body of an email. Completed invoices should be sent to: Educator, Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, 1220 Kensington Road, Oak Brook, IL 60523 or emailed to Sara Kurth at educator@lizzadromuseum.org