Are you eager to ignite a passion for learning in your students, but not sure where to start? Travel embraces learning, creativity, program engagement, and most of all, fun! At Forum Educational Travel, we’ve set up hundreds of overnight trips for students and worked with directors from across the country. Here are some suggestions to get you started!
Talk, Talk, Talk. Start the conversation rolling with administration, parents, students, and other teachers who have taken trips with students. Learn the ins and outs of district requirements. And determine whether there is an interest in traveling among your music students.
Where do students want to go? A trip won’t happen if students aren’t excited about the destination. Once a destination is defined, promote it everywhere!! In the classroom, at booster meetings, in newsletters, on your voice mail!! If you can wrap the destination into the content of other academic subjects, you’ll enhance your students’ experience PLUS another teacher may help you promote the trip.
Find a tour operator or travel planner. You are a newbie at this – you need an experienced tour operator with contacts, networking, and suggestions for a stress-free experience. Collaboration is key – share what you want but be open to new ideas. We would love to help you on some awesome trip ideas. www.forummusicfestivals.com or www.forumtravel.org.
How will we pay for the trip? Give yourself and your students plenty of time to raise the funds for the trip. Numerous fundraising ideas exist out there, and sometimes funds are available for the asking! Host a spaghetti dinner or a pancake breakfast, organize a silent auction, or have a read-a-thon! There are so many great fundraisers out there, feel out which one will work best with your group and keep students engaged.
Think it out. Set deadlines for sign-ups. Ask for “good faith” deposits from the families. Be sure to consider how much time it will take to get from Point A to Point B. Remember, your students will appreciate some downtime for shopping, eating, and just being together with their friends. Thinking through these logistics in advance will allow for smooth sailing during your actual trip. And don’t be afraid to involve your travel planner for a second opinion!
Just have fun. Happiness is contagious. If you are having fun, it shows your students that they can relax and have fun, too. Together, you are making unforgettable memories that will shape their future – and yours! Remember to enjoy sit back and relax to enjoy all the work you put into the planning process.