Field Trips: Academic Endeavors and Safety Guidelines for Chaperones
Field trips are an important part of our academic program and are designed to enrich students’ learning experiences outside the classroom. These trips are not only an extension of the curriculum but also provide students with hands-on learning opportunities that align with our educational objectives. As such, field trips are considered academic endeavors and participation is typically tied to student performance and behavior in the classroom. All students in grades TK-8 will experience at least one field trip each academic year.
Each student attending a field trip must have a Field Trip Permission form signed by their parents. No child may be transported off campus for school functions without a written permission form. Signed and dated Field Trip Permission forms with emergency information for each child must accompany the St. Joseph the Worker School faculty member supervising a field trip.
If private vehicles are used in car-pooling field trips, a seat belt must be available for each student. Drivers of car pool vehicles must file a copy of current liability insurance with the administration as well as a copy of a current driver’s license. All drivers must be a minimum of 25 years of age. St. Joseph the Worker School recommends that no child under the age of 12 be transported in the front passenger seat of the vehicle;
California law requires children under the age of 8 to be secured in a car or booster seat. Children who are 8 years old OR at least 4’9” may be secured by a booster seat, but at minimum wear a seat belt.
Families are responsible for 100% of the fees associated with the field trip. This cost will be documented on the permission slip.
Chaperone Policy:
To ensure a safe and productive experience for all students, field trip participation is limited to approved parent chaperones only. Only those who have gone through the proper screening and approval process (including Livescan fingerprinting and current Virtus training) will be allowed to accompany students on field trips. We deeply appreciate the willingness of parents and guardians to volunteer, and ask that all chaperones follow the guidelines provided below to ensure the safety and well-being of all students.
Student Safety:
The safety of our students is our highest priority. Our staff will maintain careful supervision, but we also rely on chaperones to help monitor students and maintain order. As part of our commitment to student safety, we ask that all chaperones adhere to the following Safety Rules:
Safety Rules for Chaperones:
Stay with Your Assigned Group: Each chaperone will be assigned a small group of students to supervise. You must remain with your group at all times and ensure students are not left unattended.
Monitor Behavior and Safety: Chaperones are responsible for maintaining appropriate student behavior. Remind students of school rules and report any concerns to the teacher immediately.
Stay Informed: Prior to the trip, familiarize yourself with the schedule, itinerary, and any specific safety or medical information related to your students. Ensure you know emergency procedures and contacts for the day.
Respect Boundaries: Chaperones must not engage in any activity that could distract from their primary responsibility of student supervision. Personal use of mobile phones should be kept to a minimum during the trip. All chaperones should remain focused on the students.
Emergency Preparedness: In the event of an emergency (medical or otherwise), follow the instructions given by teachers or school staff. Always have access to a first aid kit, and ensure students know how to contact you if needed.
No Siblings: Only approved chaperones and students who are part of the trip are allowed to attend. Siblings or other non-participating children cannot be included on the trip.
Respect School Policies: Chaperones should adhere to all school policies, including rules regarding the use of tobacco, alcohol, or any other substances. Any behavior contrary to these policies will not be tolerated.
We thank all parent volunteers for their support and commitment to making field trips both educational and safe. By following these safety guidelines, we can ensure that each field trip is a positive and enriching experience for our students.
