General Information for Field Trip Chaperons

     

    Leadership 

    Generally a classroom teacher will lead each field trip.  All chaperones shall defer to and support the leadership and decision-making authority of the classroom teacher. 

    Individual teachers will provide specific guidelines for each individual trip on such issues as fees, gift shops, car seating assignments, travel details and academic goals. 

     

    Chaperone’s Role

    Chaperones are expected to take an active role in assisting the teacher rather than being silent observers. Chaperones should focus primarily on the students assigned to them rather than on other students and adults should assist the students in understanding what they are seeing, maneuvering across streets and in restaurants.

     

    Student Behavior

    Please expect obedient and respectful behavior from all students in your group; a field trip is a school day, not a family vacation, and CCA standards still apply. Please do not tolerate wild or silly behavior. A friendly reminder to students about the temptations they will face and the behavior that is expected as they leave your vehicle will help to set the tone.  Please encourage edifying conversation. Students should not gossip, complain or make humor at another’s expense. Refer any problems in behavior to the teacher as quickly as possible.

     

    Vehicle Activities

    Car games are encouraged, such as Travel Scrabble, Mad-Libs, License Plate game, and other classic travel games. Occasionally, electronic games/musical devices will be permitted on longer trips at the discretion of the teacher and principal.

     

    Only instrumental music or music with edifying lyrics may be played during trips at the discretion of the driver. Songs with references to violence, immoral sexual behavior, or attitudes of hopelessness are prohibited; CCA encourages adult chaperones to be sensitive to the convictions and tastes of other families in this matter. Books on tape are acceptable but should be approved by the teacher. Videos may be used on trips of more than two hours and must be approved by the teacher.


    Dress

    Adults attending field trips should wear modest “business-casual” type clothing, unless the trip involves active outdoor activities. CCA policy for student dress on field trips is “CCA Best” unless other instructions are given. Students should stay in their “CCA Best” until parents pick them up at the school lest unclaimed ties and vests be left to adorn each vehicle. As a chaperone, please do not accept complaining from students about the uniforms. Contentedness is expected.

     

    Admissions

    Adult chaperones are expected to pay for their own admissions to the field trip event. CCA will cover expenses for parking and tolls through the fee charged to the students.  On longer, out of town field trips each student's fee will contain a portion to help with the cost of gas used by the drivers.   

     

    Communications

    All adults should exchange cell phone information at the start of the trip in case someone becomes separated from the group.  CCA’s office will be the point of contact in case of an extended separation; all parties should call (717)540-9885.