Professional Documents
Culture Documents
10.06.2017
Henry County Schools Field Trip Procedures
TABLE OF CONTENTS
V. Transportation .... 4
A. District school bus
B. Charter bus
C. Private vehicle
D. Walking
E. Air transportation
F. Other means of transportation
F. Emergency communication
G. Access to student health information
H. Distribution of medications
The purpose of these procedures is to help ensure the safety of all students, staff
and volunteers.
A. Board policy
Establish a process for regular accounting for all students and staff, both
periodically and when activities change (such as before boarding the bus
to return).
V. Transportation
As field trips are off school grounds, transportation is normally needed. This can
be provided using a variety of forms. Listed below are transportation options and
issues related to each.
Be sure to specify the means of transportation in form FT-1 Field Trip Description
with Itinerary and/or form FT-3 Parent/Guardian Field Trip
Permission/Emergency Information/Informed Consent Form.
This is the preferred means for transportation for several reasons: it is the
safest means of transportation, it is the easiest way to supervise many
students, school bus drivers are trained school employees, and using
district-owned and operated school buses keeps the money used for
transportation in the school district.
To secure a school bus and driver for your trip log on to the electronic field
trip request form from the following link; http://hdctrans3/edulog/eFT/.
Once the trip is submitted, Transportation will schedule the school bus and
assign a bus driver. Email communication will be sent confirming this
process.
B. Charter bus
If school buses are not available, a recognized charter bus service can be
used as approved by Henry County Transportation Services. Please
consult with Transportation Services for more guidance.
C. Private vehicle
The use of private vehicles is not recommended, because the school does
not have control over private vehicles. Because of the lack of control, the
school will need to make efforts to ensure the safety of its students while
riding in private vehicles. These efforts include:
2. Vehicle insurance
E. Air Transportation
Commercial airlines are often used when traveling long distances. Any air
travel other than by commercial airline should reviewed by the districts
Executive Officer in consultation with the Risk Manager. Remember that
air travel is traditionally excluded from school district insurance coverage.
The flyer may want to purchase additional insurance.
2. Train Railroad liability would be carried by the railroad and not a part
of school district insurance coverage.
A. Arrangements
Prior to the trip, arrange sleeping accommodations for the students and
chaperones.
B. Supervision
C. Inspection
A. Inform parents/guardians
2. For more involved field trips such as out of country or overnight stays,
provide a more formal opportunity for questions, such as an
informational meeting for parents/guardians. Discuss applicable
information regarding the proposed trip, including the following:
Purpose of the trip and relation to the curriculum or activity program
Budget and fundraising
Proposed detailed daily student itinerary
Arrangements for chaperones
Proposed travel arrangements
Proposed housing arrangements
Proposed eating arrangements
Rules of conduct for students
Reminder that district policies apply, including the prohibition on
drug, alcohol use, and technology use
Parent information and permission requirements
Fees and spending money
Emergency procedures
Potential personal safety risks
Information related to foreign travel, including immunizations
required, passports, laws related to drugs (including prescription
drugs), and appropriate conduct in a foreign country
Keep records of dates of meetings, number in attendance, and
handouts/information given
C. Related documents
Have the field trip sponsor(s) provide a pre-trip orientation for the students
and chaperones that might include the following topics:
1. Proper supervision
The main purpose of supervision is to help protect students from
injury or diminish the risk of student injury. Adults do not
automatically have the skills necessary to appropriately supervise
students. Teach chaperones applicable school district policies and
procedures and their duties and responsibilities. Proper
supervision has four basic components:
Overnight trips:
F. Emergency communication
2. Provide phone numbers for field trip staff to use to contact a school
administrator on a 24-hour basis in an emergency. Contact a school
administrator promptly in the event of an unusual incident and any
student injury. Allow the school administrator to contact
parents/guardians in serious situations.
H. Distribution of medications
These guidelines are in addition to the districts usual field trip procedures; many
of the previously mentioned procedures also apply to extended and foreign field
trips.
Obtain approval from the school board before talking to students and
parents about the proposed trip. The school board must formally approve
all proposed plans for student travel out of the country. Discuss the
proposed plan with the parents/guardians of the students participating,
either in writing or verbally through group meetings. Keep records of the
dates of these meetings, the number of parents in attendance, and any
handouts/information. Provide parents/guardians and students with a
planned itinerary for the trip, including at least the following information:
departure time, place, major events/activities, travel arrangements,
planned stops, time for return, and place for return.
One (1) additional chaperone for every additional ten (10) students or
major portion hereof.
D. Land transportation
E. Air transportation
F. Housing
1. For students
2. For staff
Required immunizations
Passport procurement
Required personal identification
Laws specific to that country regarding drugs and prescription
medications
Travel Warnings issued to describe long-term, protracted
conditions that make a country dangerous or unstable
Advise aliens, including exchange students, to determine their
immigration status before entering a foreign country and to take
appropriate credentials with them.
For more information about these guidelines, please call the Administrative Services
Department (770) 957-6601
A special thank you to Educational Services District 112 for their contribution to this
document. http://web3.esd112.org/.
FORMS
The School Field Trip Procedures that precede this section of forms provide detailed guidance for many
aspects of planning and executing field trips. They serve as both a reference for field trip sponsors and a
training tool for staff new to conducting school field trips.
This section contains the related forms that will be used by field trip sponsors. These forms briefly
summarize many aspects of the procedures that follow. They can be photocopied and used as is, or
electronic copies can be obtained from your location principal/administrator.
Following is a list of, and brief descriptions of, the forms that are part of these procedures:
This form helps sponsors fully describe the field trip. Included is a Sample Field Trip Description with
Itinerary so the sponsor has an example of a fully completed form
This form combines the basic field trip information, medical/emergency information, and informed consent,
so there is only one two-page form that parents/guardians need sign for to give permission for their children
to participate in the field trip
This three-page document fully describes the background check policy and procedures for
volunteers/chaperones adopted by Henry County Schools
These two pages provide some general guidelines for chaperones, and a place for the chaperone to provide
emergency contact information
This form facilitates volunteer driver screening and vehicle inspection for volunteers who drive their own
vehicles on field trips
FT-11 Liability Notice for Employee or Parent Volunteer Transporting Students Form B
The following list assists the sponsoring staff member through the field trip process.
Please see procedures for specific information regarding each item.
1. I understand that this is a school approved field trip and that Henry County Schools Student Code of Conduct applies
to my conduct during this field trip. I agree to follow the Student Code of Conduct while on the field trip and
understand that I may be disciplined upon my return if I violate the Student Code of Conduct during this trip.
2. I will conduct myself with maturity, courtesy, and respect toward all parties participating in the field trip, including, but
not limited to, my classmates, chaperones and teachers.
3. I realize the chaperones/teachers are responsible for my welfare and the welfare of the group. Accordingly, I will obey
their instructions at all times. I also understand the sponsoring teacher(s) has the final authority and the right to
administer consequences for any students who are in breach of this agreement.
4. I acknowledge this is an educational trip. I realize my participation in all group meetings, meals, tours, excursions, and
other scheduled events is mandatory. I realize that I will only be exempt from participating in scheduled events if I am
ill and I obtain prior permission from a chaperone/teacher to miss an event.
5. Allocation of free time is at the discretion of the chaperone/teacher. I will never go off alone or make any unplanned
trips or excursions while on the field trip. I will carry the name, address, and phone number of the
chaperones/teachers with me at all times. I will keep a chaperone/teacher informed of my whereabouts at all times.
6. I understand I must stay at the accommodations arranged by the school. Exceptions to this rule will be made only by
prior arrangements, with the principal, parent(s)/guardian(s) and sponsoring teachers.
7. I will remain at my assigned lodgings from 10:00 P.M. to sunrise or a time designated by the sponsor. I understand
that boys rooms are off limits to girls and vice versa. I understand I am not to leave my assigned lodgings after
curfew unless I am accompanied by a chaperone/teacher. In case of emergency, I will immediately contact a
chaperone/teacher.
8. I will respect public and personal property. I understand any damages incurred to public property or personal property
as a result of my conduct will be my responsibility. I understand Henry County Schools is not liable for any damage
that may occur to my personal property on the field trip.
9. I will not drink alcohol, smoke, use other tobacco products, or use illegal drugs and/or medication that is not
prescribed to me during this trip. I will not accept or transport any of these items.
10. I understand that if I do not follow the rules and expectations listed above, or if I engage in illegal activity, I may be
required to come home early. I understand my parent(s) will be financially responsible for making arrangements to
send me home.
Donation Amount (no student will be denied access to a field trip for monetary reasons; however, if donations do not cover the cost of the trip, the
outing may be cancelled):
Lunch: _____ Child will be allowed to buy a school lunch, or bring a lunch from home.
_____ Child will be allowed to buy a school lunch, bring a lunch from home, or purchase lunch at an outside vendor.
Transportation will be provided by in the following manner: ___ HCS bus transportation
Student Name:
___ My child will buy a school lunch. ___ I would like to be a chaperone.
___ My child will bring a lunch from home. ___ I (parent) will bring my lunch.
___ My child will bring monies for lunch to ___ I (parent) will purchase a school lunch.
purchase from a vendor
___ My child has medication that should be administered during this trip. (School please attached IHP.)
CONSENT
If any emergency medical procedure/treatments are required by the student during the trip, I consent to the trips supervisor taking, arranging for, or consenting to the
procedures or treatment at his or her discretion. I further release and waive any claim which I or any other person, firm, corporation, or entity may have or claim to
have, known or unknown, directly or indirectly, from any losses, damages or injuries arising out of, during, or in connection with the students participation in the
activity, any trip associated with the activity, or the rendering or emergency medical procedures/treatment, if any. I further agree to indemnify and hold harmless
and reimburse the Henry County School District, the Board of Education, its successors and assigns, its members, agents, employees, and
representatives thereof, as well as the trip supervisor from and for any and all claims and losses.
*If other transportation is indicated (i.e., no HCS bus transportation), please fill out below:
While the Henry County School District provides transportation through the utilization of the District bus fleet for many extracurricular events, in some cases school
sponsored transportation is not available. In those instances, it is necessary for the parent/guardian to make arrangements for transportation. The Henry County
School District strongly discourages students from riding with other students to and from extracurricular events and to this end, district employees shall not assign
students to ride with other students.
who attends
(Name of school)
on _________________________ from to
(Date) (Time departs) (Time returns)
Class/Club/Team:
Staff contact: Phone Number:
Transportation for this activity will be provided by:
___ District bus/vehicle
___ Other (specify)
Medical/emergency information
Student's Address:
Does the student have any medical or physical condition, medication information, or allergies which could
interfere with the students safety? ____ Yes ____ No
If yes, please describe:
In the event of an emergency (injury, illness, unforeseen incident), I wish the following person to be
notified in case I cannot be contacted:
Name: Relationship:
Informed consent
As the parent/guardian of the above named student, I have read the field trip itinerary
and I understand that there may be risks of physical injury associated with participation
in these activities.
These activities are an extension of the school education program and student conduct
is to be in accordance with the schools published rules and regulations.
I pledge that my conduct will, at all times, reflect credit upon myself, my parents, and my
school. I understand that the school rules of conduct apply while on the trip.
Student Name:
Date of Birth: Grade:
I, ________________________________, Parent/Legal Guardian of the above-named student hereby request authorization for self-
administration and possession of asthma medication, epinephrine auto injector, or diabetic medication by this student while in school, at a
school sponsored activity, while under supervision of school personnel, and while in before-school or after-school care on school operated
property. The student demonstrates full understanding of the proper use of his/her medication.
I understand that:
the school district and its employees and agents shall incur no liability for: a) any injury to the student caused by his or her self-
administration of medication except for injury caused by willful or wanton misconduct; b) the students use, misuse, overuse, or
neglected or failed use of his or her medication; and c) lost, misplaced, outdated, inaccessible, empty, or faulty medication and
devices
the school may choose to require supervision of medication administration in the event that the student does not demonstrate
appropriate use or proper technique with medication
the school has the authority to enforce rules and consequences for inappropriate behavior demonstrated by the student in
association with the possession and/or self-administration of medication and that the school has the authority to require supervision
of medication use as deemed appropriate for the safety of all students and staff
I understand and agree to the conditions of the school system policy. I permit the school to seek emergency medical treatment for
the student when deemed necessary and appropriate. I accept legal responsibility should the medication be misused or given or
taken by a person other than the above named student. I release the Henry County School System and its employees and agents of
any legal responsibility related to the above named students possession and self-administration of his or her medication.
I, ___________________________________, the above-named student have been instructed in the proper use of my prescription
medication and fully understand how and when to use this medication. I will always carry my medication with me and will not allow
another student to use my medication under any circumstance. I understand and agree to the terms of the school policy.
The above named student has been instructed and demonstrates understanding of the proper use of his/her medication. It is my
professional opinion that the student be permitted to carry and self-administer his/her medication. I have provided the
parent/guardian with a written emergency/management plan including the name, purpose, dosage, and administration directions of
the medication.
Georgia Department of Human Resources, Division of Public Health, Childrens Healthcare of Atlanta & Georgia Association of School Nurses 2004 Georgia School Health Resource Manual Chapter 3
Administration of Medications.
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Off-campus volunteer background checks will be valid for three school years.
Before sending in a new background check request, please check the Volunteer
Roster on MyHenry to ensure that your parent is not already approved either by
your school or another. By avoiding duplicate (or triplicate!) requests, we can
really cut down on the turnaround time with the sheriffs department in processing
our background checks.
Please be sure to utilize the current school years authorization form. Mentor
Guidelines and authorization forms are sent system-wide to Principals, Assistant
Principals, Counselors, and Graduation Coaches at the beginning of each school
year.
Once a parent/guardian has approval, he/she may volunteer or chaperone in any
capacity deemed appropriate by the principal for that one-year period. Please do
not alter the form in any way. Colored paper is fine, but please do not add logos
or any other additional information that may cause the form to become two pages
or that may compromise the information already there.
Please ensure that the forms are complete. However, keep in mind that the
sheriffs department cannot run a background check on someone who does not
have a valid Social Security Number or someone who does not have a valid
state-issued ID. Both of these areas MUST be complete on the authorization
form or they will be returned.
The Henry County Sheriffs Department will NOT perform a background check on
a minor child. Approvals for minors wishing to volunteer will be at the discretion
of the principal. We do not perform background checks on active HCS students.
The Approved Volunteer Roster will be updated on MyHenry, noting the most
recent approvals, and the date added.
Each school has a contact person responsible for the collection of parent
background check forms, and to serve as a point of contact for Human
Resources concerning parent and mentor volunteers. Your school name and the
name of the contact person must be noted on all background check forms sent in
for processing.
DO NOT send mandated reporting forms to Human Resources. These forms are
to be maintained at the school.
Please do not include these forms as part of your student packets. We
cannot and do not want to require parents to submit to a background check
unless it is their intent to serve your school in one of these capacities.
Forms should be notarized before being sent in for processing.
For questions, please contact Stacey Odom, Human Resource Services at
770-957-5107, or via email at Stacey.Odom@henry.k12.ga.us
Once the background checks return, you will be contacted by Human Resources
to advise you of all acceptable reports as well as any that may be of concern. At
that point, you will be able to make a final determination regarding your parent
volunteers and their approval to participate in the schools function(s).
Stacey Odom
Human Resource Services
Henry County Schools
770-957-5107
Stacey.Odom@henry.k12.ga.us
I hereby authorize any clerk, officer, judge, custodian, or other person to give to the Henry County Schools, 33 North Zack
Hinton Parkway, McDonough, Georgia, 30253, any and all information in their possession regarding my motor vehicle
record, and any criminal history or record pertaining to me, which may be on file with any criminal justice agency, court, or
the GCIC/NCIC, or other information requested upon presentation of this authorization or any reproduced copy thereof.
(O.C.G.A. 35-3-35/35-3-6.) I further give my continuing consent, for officials of Henry County Schools to access such
information throughout the course of my service at intervals, should the Henry County Schools deem further background
checks appropriate.
ALL REQUESTED INFORMATION MUST BE SUBMITTED AND MUST BE LEGIBLE. THE SHERIFFS
DEPARTMENT WILL NOT PROCESS INCOMPLETE REQUESTS, AND INCOMPLETE FORMS WILL BE RETURNED
TO THE SCHOOL.
___________________________________________ ___________-_______-___________
Print Full Name (First, Middle, Last) Social Security Number (Full Number)
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Street Address
___________________________________________________ ______________________________
Signature Date
___________________________________________________
Notary Public
Henry County Schools (HCS) believes that field trips provide a valuable educational experience
for students. Without the help of volunteer chaperones like you, many field trips would not be
possible. We thank you very much for giving your time and support to these important activities.
In order to help ensure that HCS-sponsored field trips result in safe and rewarding experiences
for all participants, we have prepared these guidelines to provide information about volunteering
as a field trip chaperone.
Because student safety is paramount concern, Georgia State law requires HCS to
conduct a criminal record background check of school volunteers with unsupervised
access to children. To accomplish this, all volunteers must complete the GCIC Consent
Form every three years or at the principals discretion.
The HCS also requires that volunteer chaperones be at least 21 years old.
Prior to your field trip, the supervising staff member will provide you with information regarding
the activities planned for the trip, expectations for supervising students, and emergency
procedures. In addition, we have developed the following general guidelines to help you
perform your duties as a chaperone. If you have any questions regarding these guidelines,
please contact the supervising staff member or the building principal/program manager.
1. All school rules apply on HCS-sponsored events. Chaperones are expected to comply
with HCS policies, follow the directions given by HCSs supervising staff member, work
cooperatively with other staff and volunteers, and model appropriate behaviors for
students.
2. In order to comply with HCS policy, during HCS sponsored events, chaperones:
may not use, sell, provide, possess, or be under the influence of drugs or alcohol
may not use tobacco in the presence of, or within the sight of, students
may not possess any weapon
may not administer any medications, prescription or nonprescription, to students
4. Student behavior is your responsibility. School rules related to student behavior apply.
Go over rules and standards of behavior, safety rules, and any site specific rules with
students. Ensure that students do not get involved in extra activities not pre-approved
by administrators and parents.
5. For the protection of both the student and the chaperone, chaperones should not place
themselves in situations in which they are alone with a student.
7. Chaperones who transport students in their personal vehicle must complete the HCS
Private Transportation for School Activities form. You are expected to comply with all
HCS and State student transportation rules and regulations. Be aware that your
personal vehicle insurance provides primary coverage in the event of an accident or
injury.
I acknowledge that I have received the copy of the Guidelines for Volunteer Field Trip
Chaperones, have read these guidelines, and agree to comply with the guidelines as a school
volunteer.
Printed Name
Pursuant to Code Section 19-7-5 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A), Henry County
Schools must notify individuals who volunteer in the school district of their obligations as mandated
reporters for suspected child abuse.
Child abuse includes:
(A) Physical injury or death inflicted upon a child by a parent or caretaker by non-accidental means;
physical forms of discipline do not count, as long as there is no physical injury to the child;
(B) Neglect or exploitation of a child by a parent or caretaker thereof; or
(C) Sexual abuse or exploitation of a child.
Requirements
Georgia law requires that all volunteers:
1. Report, not investigate, any suspicions of child abuse as defined above to the principal, supervisor,
or designee of the facility within which you are volunteering immediately, but in no case later than
the end of the school day or school event for which you are serving as a volunteer.
2. If the above individuals are not available, then Georgia law requires that you make an oral report
of suspected child abuse immediately to the Department of Family and Children Services, an
appropriate police authority, or a district attorney within 24 hours.
3. If you suspect the child is in immediate danger, you are directed to call 911 immediately.
Guidance
Your verbal report should be made in person or by telephone and followed by a report in writing, if
requested.
Do not contact the parent or guardian.
In causing a report to be made to a child welfare agency, or participating in any judicial proceeding
or any other proceeding that results, you are immune from any civil or criminal liability that might
otherwise be incurred or imposed, provided that you are doing so with good intentions.
A copy of Henry County Schools procedures for reporting suspected child abuse/neglect has been
made available to you on the back of this form. In addition, a video has been made available at
the Henry County School system website that will aid you in understanding the signs and symptoms
of child abuse/neglect. http://schoolwires.henry.k12.ga.us/site/default.aspx?PageID=1
If you have questions, please contact the principal, school designee, or April Brown, Director of
Administrative Services at 770-957-6601.
By your signature below, you acknowledge that you have received a copy of the procedures, you have had
an opportunity to review the form and ask questions, have had an opportunity to review the video if so
desired, and are aware of your obligation to report suspected child abuse/neglect to the appropriate
authorities.
Printed Name
TRIP INFORMATION
DATE: SCHOOL:
PURPOSE OF TRIP:
DATE OF TRIP:
TRIP IS TO:
TRIP IS FROM:
NAME OF DRIVER:
YES/NO
I have had no vehicle moving violations or at-fault accidents within the last three years. If
you have had any, please list:
I have automobile liability insurance that is currently in force and meets State
requirements.
I am aware that, in the event of an accident while on a school-related activity, any claims
will be tendered to my personal automobile insurance company, and my insurance is
primary.
_______ I am aware that, in the event of an accident while I am towing or transporting school or
student equipment, any claims will be tendered to my personal automobile insurance
company, and my insurance is primary.
VEHICLE INFORMATION
YES/NO
My vehicle has no mechanical or physical defects that would interfere with the safety of
the driver and passengers.
There is a working seat belt for the driver and each passenger, and I enforce the wearing
of seat belts by all.
If my vehicle has dual airbags, I understand that I cannot seat children under 12 years old
or small persons in the front passenger seat.
ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW
If the volunteer will drive for more than one day, the district has obtained the information
to order a motor vehicle abstract (three-year comprehensive record)
If the volunteer will drive for more than one day and will have unsupervised student
contact, the district has obtained the information to order a background information
check.
I have reviewed the above information and this driver and vehicle are approved for this trip.
I, hereby accept my
(Parents name)
(Childs name)
releases the Henry County School District from any duty or liability with respect to the transportation of my
son/daughter to and/or from the todays field trip.
__________________________________________ ________________________
Note: It is recommended that all students be transported via school/site arrangements. It is the principals discretion
whether or not to allow students to be transported via another means of transportation. If the student is transported
via means other than arranged by the school, the parent releases the School District from any and all liability that
may arise as a result of this alternate means of transportation.
Work Location:
HCBOE Employee Only
Activity for which Transportation is necessary (provide specific details for entire trip):
I understand transporting students to any school activity in my personal vehicle places me in a situation of
personal liability. I acknowledge that I will not be covered by a Henry County Board Of Education
insurance policy. My signature below affirms that I fully understand the above risk of personal liability and
still agree to transport students in my personal vehicle.
Date:
background check completed and approved by Henry County Board of Education (HCBOE)
Program/Content Area: CTAE ELA Fine Arts Foreign Language Math Science
Social Studies Other: (Please Specify)
Prior Preparations (Instructional activities or unit of study related to the trip must be completed 3 days before trip):
Follow-up activities (to be completed within 5 days after trip and returned to the Principal):
Approved By:
Program/Content Area: CTAE ELA Fine Arts Foreign Language Math Science
Social Studies Other: (Please Specify)
Prior Preparations (Instructional activities or unit of study related to the trip must be completed 3 days before trip):
Follow-up activities (to be completed within 5 days after trip and returned to the Principal):
Approved By:
Type of Contest: Overnight In State Overnight Out of State Overnight GHSA State Tournament
________ ________ ________ ________ Other: (Please Specify)
Prior Preparations for Instruction (Instructional activities or unit of study related to the trip must be completed 3
days before trip):
Follow-up activities for missed instruction (to be completed within 5 days after trip and returned to the Principal):
Approved By: