Student Behavior Expectations
The Washington Trip can be a once in a lifetime learning experience for students. The trip is planned to provide an exciting, engaging and fun-filled week that will bring alive many of the classroom and textbook experiences students have had. The chaperons take pride in the program they offer and enjoy the trip as much as the students. The success, however, is based not only on a carefully structured itinerary, but on a positive attitude toward learning and a high level of commitment from the students as well.
To this end, students must adhere to a higher standard of discipline and self-control than is needed in a normal school routine. Students who cannot meet these standards may be sent home early at their parents’ expense with no refund of any monies paid. We don’t want that to happen. In support of this, students are required to provide a copy of their 10 week report card.
Students are expected to demonstrate respect and courtesy to everyone they meet during the trip. The maintenance of harmonious working relationships, particularly with guides and others in authority positions, is essential for our continued success. This is fundamental for ALL participants.
Violation of any laws, particularly possession of drugs, alcohol, tobacco, vaping or other harmful items, failure to follow directions from the chaperons, and/or inappropriate use of the internet or social media will result in immediate return home at the parents’ expense with no refund and/or arrest by local authorities.
The following is a general guide to the behavior expectations we have for the students:
IDENTIFICATION
Students must carry a picture I. D. at all times, as it will be required at the airport, at several sites and for most meals.
ATTIRE
The normal school dress code will be in effect on the trip. Students will be expected to dress appropriately for their evening at the theatre. A clothing list is available on our website.
ON THE AIRCRAFT
Flying is exciting regardless of age. However, having a 100+ students on a single aircraft requires discipline and cooperation. Students may not roam the plane or “hang out” in the aisles. Using the restroom should be the only reason for leaving one’s seat. We encourage students to rest or even sleep. Others on the flight will be trying to do so, so students’ behavior needs to be respectful of that. Do not use the flight attendant call button unless there is an emergency. When the aircraft lands, students must remain in their seats until the chaperons have given directions for debarkation.
ON THE ROAD
Students will spend a good deal of time on the buses, which are luxury recliner coaches with restrooms. No eating, drinking or gum chewing is permitted on the bus. Music devices are allowed, provided they do not disturb others and that they are put away whenever a chaperon or driver is speaking on the public address system. Our drivers/guides have a wealth of information to provide, but will not do so, if you appear bored or disinterested.
VISITING SITES
Students will be surrounded by their nation’s history and culture. While it will be exciting, we must act with the respect these sites deserve. These historic and national treasures hold memories and values that are important to many people. It is unacceptable to detract from that atmosphere by running, climbing, yelling or chewing gum. When a guide is talking at a site, students must be attentive and not talk or “play around.”
HOTELS
Students will be expected to strictly adhere to hotel behavior standards and curfew rules. Many other patrons use the facility; their right to not be disturbed must be respected. Students are not permitted to “hang out” in the lobby, hallways or in the rooms of other students.