How To Use This Guide

Welcome to the FAQs and Talking Points section of your TripWheel. This guide is designed to help you confidently address common questions from parents and students during trip meetings. Here’s how you can make the most of this resource:

What are the behavioral rules and expectations on the trip?

• Emphasize that students are expected to follow the same behavioral guidelines that apply during regular school hours, with additional expectations for respecting others and maintaining a positive attitude during the trip.
• Stress the importance of listening to chaperones, staying with the group, and being on time for all scheduled activities.
• Mention that any violations of these rules could result in consequences, such as limited participation in certain activities.

Is there a dress code for the trip?

• I Encourage students to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing suitable for the trip’s activities.

• Mention any specific attire requirements, such as school-branded clothing or formal wear for special events like dinners or museum visits.

• Highlight the importance of modest and respectful clothing, especially when visiting cultural or religious sites.

Do we need to fill out a medical form or other school forms?

• Confirm that a medical form is required for all students to ensure that any health needs are properly addressed during the trip.
• Include information on any additional forms that may be required, such as permission slips or emergency contact details.
• Emphasize the importance of submitting these forms by the specified deadline.

Will medications be turned into a staff member? How will our child access their medication if they need it during the trip?

• Explain that any medications should be turned in to a designated staff member before the trip, with clear instructions on dosage and timing.
• Assure parents that medications will be securely stored and administered as needed.
• Clarify the process for students to access their medication, ensuring that they can do so discreetly and safely.

What are the duties and responsibilities of parent chaperones?

• Outline that chaperones are responsible for supervising a group of students, ensuring their safety, and helping to enforce the trip’s rules.
• Mention that chaperones will also assist with logistics, such as coordinating meeting points, managing schedules, and being the first point of contact in case of any issues.
• Highlight the importance of chaperones setting a positive example and being approachable for both students and staff.

Will my child be assigned to a chaperone group?

• Confirm that students will be assigned to small groups, each led by a chaperone, to ensure that everyone is accounted for and safe.
• Explain that these groups will typically stay together during the trip’s activities, making it easier for chaperones to manage the students.

How will roommates be decided?

• Explain that students will likely have some input in choosing their roommates but that final assignments will be made by the trip organizers to ensure everyone is accommodated fairly.
• Mention that rooming decisions take into account friendships, but also group dynamics and any special considerations like medical needs.

Can students bring cell phones? When is cell phone use permitted/prohibited?

• Allowing students to bring cell phones but with clear guidelines on when they can use them (e.g., during free time or to take photos).
• Stress that cell phone use will be prohibited during educational activities, group meetings, and meals to ensure full engagement.
• Encourage responsible use of phones, especially regarding social media.

Can students bring video game consoles or handheld video games, like a Nintendo Switch?

• Generally discourage bringing video game consoles to focus on the trip’s educational and social aspects.
• If allowed, suggest that they are only used during travel times (e.g., on the bus) and not during group activities or at the hotel.
• Remind students that they are responsible for their own belongings.

Can we donate snacks or water bottles and bring them to the bus the morning of the trip?

• Welcome donations of snacks and water bottles, which are often appreciated during travel.
• Suggest coordinating with the trip organizers to ensure a balanced variety of snacks and to account for any dietary restrictions among students.
• Remind parents to avoid sending items that could spoil or make a mess.

Will we be able to see pictures from the trip after it’s over?

• Assure parents that photos will be taken during the trip and that they will be shared afterward, either through a secure online gallery, social media, or a school-hosted platform.
• Mention any specific procedures for sharing photos, such as ensuring that only students with permission have their images shared.