I agree, safety is important. Making decisions regarding the safety of students is very important.
Where am I going with this?
Today I was told that it might not be safe for elementary students to go on a particular field trip due to the location. Now, keep in mind that high school students just went and will probably go again.
So what was questioned was about it being safe for elementary students? I have no idea.
I am pretty sure the location is either safe or unsafe (or uncertain, as is often the case in my current context).
You sound frustrated! And you make a good point. Are parents more willing to risk a HS aged child than and elementary one? Why the different standards?
ReplyDeleteGiven where you live, and what is transpiring there now, I am amazed that there are field trips, Kristi. But I totally get your frustration, too.
ReplyDeleteEverything here is tentative, understandably. I am thankful we have had a couple of field trips already this year.
DeleteA trip, regardless of age, might be safe to do once but not in any regularity. Could be it was only safe for the older students because they were the ones who went first.
ReplyDeleteThat can be true, but not the case here. In fact the HS coordinator was back there yesterday. Oh well. Today our trip has officially been postponed, indefinitely.
DeleteIt can be so frustrating when we don't understand the reasoning behind decision making or when we aren't allowed to participate in the decision making. I hope you find a suitable compromise for the kids!
ReplyDeleteThe most stressful days of the year for me are field trips. I get so wrapped up in keeping count of everyone and making sure no one gets left somewhere. I can't even imagine planning a trip in Lebanon. I don't blame you for being cautious. Listen to your gut. If you feel like you can relax and have enough adults present, go for it. If not, take a camera and do your own field trip and present it to them.
ReplyDeleteTaking a camera to report back is a great idea. Unfortunately this was a service learning trip and the majority of the impact, for the students, is lost when they can't be a part of serving others. Fortunately the food and supplies they have worked hard to collect can still be delivered and, if things calm down, they can visit later this year.
DeleteI teach at an international school in Venezuela and we also do not get to go on field trips! :(
ReplyDelete- Amanda at http://teachingwanderlust.com/