Plan your directions. Know what to do the day of your Program
Bring the map and know how to get to the program site. Ask the bus company how long it will take to arrive considering the traffic. If you will be late or need to cancel, please notify the visitor center as soon as possible by calling (219) 395-8914. If your group arrives late, we will have to shorten your program to meet our next scheduled activity.
Get the “nuts and bolts” before you start
Keep and bring the confirmation form that is sent in your pre-visit packet. For most programs we try to keep the level of students per ranger at no more than 30 to 1. It is less for Pinhook Bog. Name tags on the students and even the teachers and chaperones are very helpful.
Know what educational goals will be taught
Read over the information packet sent to you and share this with all teachers involved. Use the activities to engage the students with knowledge before they arrive for their program. If you want the ranger to cover specific topics based on your pre-visit goals, let them know before the program begins.
Be comfortable
Proper footwear is essential to a good time. In winter fingers and toes need to be kept warm. In warmer months be sure to bring water.
Chaperones enhance or can detract
Chaperons can be helpful if they understand their role is to help control the group and keep students’ attention focused on the ranger and not to socialize during the program. We recommend one chaperone and/or teacher for every 10 students.
Keep the students actively involved
Encourage and reward students with positive reinforcement when they participate in the activities.
Keep this a learning experience
To optimize both yours and our time, the trip should enhance, re-enforce, or introduce an area of study. Language arts, social studies, math, and science standards can be included in our teaching opportunities during this trip to the park.
Independent time
If available, independent time to explore after the program to reflect on their experience can be used to enhance the field trip.
Extend your learning experience
Conduct post-visit activities back in the classroom to make the field trip relevant to your curriculum.
Feedback
Throughout the year, we will occasionally ask you for feedback via hand-delivered forms or e-mail. These brief outlines enable us to better serve your teaching needs. Always feel free to add your feedback to the ranger at hand or call the education programs manager directly.
Thank you for bringing your class out to the national lakeshore.
We look forward to having the opportunity to enhance your students’ learning experience.
| 
