Be sure your students know:

• The time and date of departure
• Point of departure
• Educational objective of the field trip
• Necessary expenses
• Lunch plan
• Appropriate dress
• Parental permission forms as required by the school
• Rules (of the teacher and of the Park)
• Field trip supplies (camera, notebook, pencils, art supplies, etc.)
• Special assignments and/or worksheets
• Available free time
• Time they will return to school

It is important that students, whether working as a class or in small groups, have proper supervision. We recommend one adult accompany every 12 to 15 students. All chaperones should clearly understand their disciplinary duties and stay with the students during the field trip.

Discipline is the responsibility of the teacher and chaperones. Please explain to your students that appropriate, orderly behavior is expected during their visit. Use simple rules of respect for Park resources and courtesy toward each other, keeping in mind that other people will be visiting at the same time. All plants, minerals, animals, fossils and artifacts are protected by State Law and should not be disturbed.

There are limited facilities at most Parks to take shelter in bad weather, which may require rescheduling, canceling or changing activity plans. Check with the Park before visiting in such weather. Notify the Park immediately if any circumstances require you to cancel your visit.