A. Generally
An instructional field trip is defined as an extension of a regular classroom activity that reinforces and enhances learning by exposing students to experiences outside of the school setting.
Field trips of significant recreational value as well as educational value may be permitted. These include trips by athletic teams, band, senior class and other school sponsored student organizations and shall be at a minimal or no cost to the board.
The safety of the students and proper care of school vehicles shall receive the appropriate consideration.
B. Authorization
The superintendent or his designee may approve field trips. Such approval must be obtained at least two weeks prior to the date of the trip. More complete guidelines for field trips may be found in Section 12-1 of this policy manual.
C. Fees
The use of school buses to transport students on field trips required as part of the instructional program shall be without charge to the students. Schools requesting curricular trips shall be required to pay the current rate for mileage and the bus operator's wages or apply these charges to any available curriculum allocation given to them.
Students may be assessed a pro rata transportation fee for the use of school buses when buses are used to transport students on school-sponsored trips that are not required as part of the instructional program. Fees shall be waived for any student whose parent or guardian is financially unable to pay.
There shall be no required admission fees for students to participate in a field trip that is part of the instructional program.
D. Transportation
The Board of Education believes buses to be the safest means to transport students on field trips. The superintendent or his designee may approve the use of chartered buses when funds are available and the safety and comfort of the students would be improved on long trips.
The use of privately owned vehicles for transporting a small group of students may be approved by the superintendent or his designee when an adult is the driver and the vehicle is adequately insured.
E. Privately Sponsored Trips
The board does not endorse any student trips that are privately sponsored or that are not a part of the instructional or approved extracurricular program. The superintendent shall emphasize to any interested students and parents that trips of this nature are strictly private enterprises.
During the school day, employees of the board shall not influence students to participate in excursions, tours or field trips not sponsored by the school district. Employees are prohibited from using their professional relationships with students with personal gain or financial advantage. Therefore, an employee shall not promote any activity, e.g., trips, tours, dramatic productions, etc. to district wherein the employee will benefit financially either directly or indirectly.
LEGAL REFERENCE:
ADOPTED: June 19, 1984