grade 6 residential program handbook and … 6 residential program handbook and planning information...

Grade 6 Residential Program Handbook and

Planning Information 2012-2013

http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/curriculum/outdoored/sites/smith.aspx

Spring 2013


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Table of Contents

Program Overview ........................................................................................................................................ 3

Instructional Program .................................................................................................................................... 4

Content Standard Connections .................................................................................................................. 4

Areas of Study........................................................................................................................................... 5

Organizing Your School’s Program .............................................................................................................. 7

Planning Timeline and Checklist .............................................................................................................. 8

Responsibilities during the Outdoor Environmental Education Program ............................................... 11

Evening Activity Suggestions ................................................................................................................. 13

Confidence Course Activities at Skycroft and Summit Lake ................................................................. 14

What’s New This Year? 2012-2013........................................................................................................ 15

Staffing .................................................................................................................................................... 16

Best Practices for Recruitment ................................................................................................................ 17

Instructional Reminders .......................................................................................................................... 20

Hiking In ................................................................................................................................................. 20

Materials and Equipment ........................................................................................................................ 21

Facilities .................................................................................................................................................. 21

Meals, Dining and Kitchen Patrol (KP) .................................................................................................. 22

Dormitories ............................................................................................................................................. 23

Health Information .................................................................................................................................. 24

Site Information .......................................................................................................................................... 25

Lathrop E. Smith Environmental Education Center ............................................................................... 25

Skycroft Conference Center .................................................................................................................... 30

Summit Lake ........................................................................................................................................... 34

Emergency Protocol .................................................................................................................................... 37

Forms, Payment and Finances .................................................................................................................... 40

Outdoor Education Program Parent Permission ..................................................................................... 41

Authorization to Administer Prescribed Medication .............................................................................. 42

Emergency Care for the Management of a Student with a Diagnosis of Anaphylaxis ........................... 44

Suggested Packing List ........................................................................................................................... 47

Tick Advisory ......................................................................................................................................... 49

Sunset, Twilight and Sunrise Chart......................................................................................................... 50

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Program Overview

We, the staff at Outdoor Environmental Education Programs, are committed to:

providing outdoor learning experiences through the MCPS curriculum that increase students ’ content and process knowledge

nurturing awareness, appreciation, and stewardship for the natural environment

building the capacity of MCPS educators to teach environmental education using the outdoors as a classroom

Outcomes The current focus for outdoor environmental education is to create a learning environment where students can use scientific inquiry as a basis for their observations, investigations and explanations. To aid this process, lessons have been created to support the residential program outcomes and the MCPS sixth grade instructional outcomes. We value continuous improvement, and will continue to evaluate all aspects of our program. The general outcomes, as currently stated, are to:

Provide opportunities for students to apply the knowledge and skills acquired in the classroom to authentic outdoor situations

Provide students with direct experiences using science as inquiry, such as identifying an authentic problem, questioning to clarify understanding, formulating and modifying hypotheses, collecting and analyzing data, using evidence to support decisions, and creating action plans

Cultivate students' awareness, knowledge, appreciation, and stewardship for the natural environment and the effect of people’s actions upon it

Instill a sense of understanding and responsibility of environmental problems and the difficulties that exist in seeking solutions while promoting positive actions toward a solution

Motivate students to develop positive attitudes toward learning through varied experiences in the natural environment

Help students learn to live democratically and responsibly for the welfare of the total group

Help students develop, enhance and maintain good human relations among themselves and with their teachers

Promote students’ physical fitness and enjoyment of the outdoors

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Instructional Program

One of the strengths of the Montgomery County Outdoor Environmental Education Residential Program is the fact that classroom teachers have assumed the major role in the instructional program at the residential environmental education centers just as in regular classrooms. Consequently, the program varies from session to session depending on the needs and interests of students from different schools, as well as the skills and interests of the participating teachers. The residential outdoor environmental program provides various lessons that deliver environmental, life, and earth science instruction focused on field experiences in the Chesapeake Bay watershed and helps students attain mastery of the associated MSDE standards*. In a typical session, a school may include in its program several different classes and activities. All schools are expected to schedule lessons that deliver sixth grade curricular outcomes, and are strongly encouraged to make trans-disciplinary connections. In addition to the science lessons, there are other class offerings that teach grade 6 geography standards and the “Confidence Course,” which emphasizes team-building, effective interpersonal communication through collaborative problem solving, and individual confidence building. In all instructional units, there are rich opportunities for trans-discipline teaching of the common core standards.

Content Standard Connections

In addition to infusing standards from the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts and the Standards for Mathematical Practice, the following is a list of the selected middle school content standards that are the foundation for the outdoor environmental education curricula: Standard 6.0 Environmental Science: Students will use scientific skills and processes to explain the interactions of environmental factors (living and non-living) and analyze their impact from a local to a global perspective. Standard 3.0 Life Science: The students will use scientific skills and processes to explain the dynamic nature of living things, their interactions, and the results from the interactions that occur over time. Standard 2.0 Earth/Space Science: Students will use scientific skills and processes to explain the chemical and physical interactions (i.e., natural forces and cycles, transfer of energy) of the environment, Earth, and the universe that occur over time. Standard 3.0 Geography: Students will use geographic concepts and processes to examine the role of culture, technology, and the environment in the location and distribution of human activities and spatial connections throughout time.

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Areas of Study

The brief summaries that follow include potential areas of study common to all outdoor education centers as well as those unique to one locality. These areas of study are not meant to limit the possibilities, but do include topics that have considerable instructional potential, have been used successfully, and are connected to the state curriculum. The program possibilities are varied enough to fit the particular school's needs or interests and to take advantage of the ongoing curriculum in that school. Instructional outcomes from the State Curriculum, lesson plans, and resources needed can be found on the website or can be obtained from your outdoor education coordinator. Stream/Pond Study Students investigate the local watershed and work in groups to assess

the health of a nearby stream or pond. Students learn techniques for collection biotic and abiotic data of an aquatic ecosystem using a macro-invertebrate survey, chemical analyses, and stream buffer analysis. Food web and food chain concepts are reinforced through identification of the organisms in a stream ecosystem and the environmental impact of various pollutants are discussed.

Predator/Prey Relationships

Predator/Prey is a guided simulation designed to increase understanding of the predator/prey relationship that animals exhibit in our local ecosystem. Participants are assigned a role in the food chain, participate in the simulation, collect and analyze results, and assess factors affecting their survival. Evaluation includes a discussion noting that changes in the environment that may be helpful to some populations and harmful to others.

Exploring the Watershed Using Map and Compass

Students investigate the connection between forest health and water quality. Working in groups, the students observe the land of local watershed by conducting a field survey of the surrounding forest and riparian buffers. Students use a map and compass to navigate through the watershed to their assigned survey locations. At the end of the lesson, students analyze their data to determine if the forest is in good condition to protect the

Tree Identification Using GPS

Students learn to identify native trees as well as use hand-held global positioning system (GPS) units. Working in groups, the students use the GPS units to navigate to marked trees at the outdoor education center. Then, students use a dichotomous key to identify the tree species they found. The role of trees in the riparian buffer is emphasized.

Patterns of Settlement Using GPS

Students assess settlement potential of a variety of locations and learn to use hand-held global positioning system (GPS) units. Working in groups, students use the GPS units to navigate to several assigned locations and collect environmental and geographic data. At the end

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of the lesson, students analyze their data and use their knowledge from grade six world studies to determine which location is best to settle and establish a community.

Confidence Course Students participate in a series of mentally and physically challenging events. In team events, students communicate and cooperate to overcome obstacles and solve problems. Individual events provide opportunities for students to extend themselves and build confidence.

Local History Students use inquiry skills to explore evidence of past history of the area. Historical lessons depend on the site, but can include visiting the ruins of an old home site, the stonework of an old mill, a local graveyard or civil war history. Careful observation and group discussions can give students a glimpse of past customs and ways of life.

Student Service Learning (SSL)

All Grade 6 students must participate in Service Learning as part of their instructional day. (Part of the Grade 6 science curriculum – the SSL must be have an environmental focus) Schools may choose to integrate a SSL activity into their outdoor environmental education program. Topics include habitat restoration, energy conservation, and protecting the water of the Chesapeake Bay. OEEP provides lessons (background knowledge and action), equipment, and guidance to assist schools in this important work.

Survivor: Earth

Students will collect data to determine the presence and health of water in the geosphere, atmosphere, biosphere and hydrosphere. Working in groups, students will use a GPS to find a location and then collect evidence on the presence of water in their natural environment. This curriculum was written in partnership with NASA as part of the Global Participation Measurement (GPM) mission.

Evening Activities Instruction does not end when the sun goes down! After dinner students may go on a night hike and conduct some science experiments in the dark, attend a planetarium presentation (Smith Center only), do student service learning, and roast a marshmallow at the campfire. Or students may continue bonding with their fellow sixth graders by writing cabin/dorm songs, playing nature games, or doing arts and crafts. Whichever activities the school plans, students are busy right up until bedtime.

The Outdoor Environmental Education Notebook is a highly recommended tool for connecting students’ learning as they move from one class to another. It provides a place to facilitate the integration of math into the field experiences and writing into explanations and reflections on learning. Contact your coordinator to discuss model journals and the mechanics that work best for successfully using student notebooks during the residential experience.

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Organizing Your School’s Program

Each school should have one or two teachers assigned by the principal to be in charge of organizing the residential program for the 6th grade team. A team leader, science teacher, or anyone willing to take on the task can fill the role of this Outdoor Education Organizer. It is a stipend position. If more than one person is organizing the program the stipend is split between those individuals. It is highly recommended that the Outdoor Education Organizer remain at the site during the school’s visit. The documents in this section are meant to help the school Outdoor Education Organizer through all steps of the planning process – from the first steps in July of the new academic year to the day of the program to evaluating a recently completed program. With so many tasks that need to be completed each year, the staff at Outdoor Environmental Education Programs encourages all organizers, even experienced ones, to review this material each year to ensure that all steps are completed correctly and on time. A Sample Schedule is available on the OEEP website or from your OEEP coordinator.



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Planning Timeline and Checklist

July of the New Academic Year □ Set OEEP parent meeting date, time and location and add to school’s master calendar □ Identify staff for teaching confidence course – check PDO for spring and fall dates for

certification class and recertification sessions – communicate information to team teachers □ Check PDO for schedule and registrations for fall preparation workshops: predator/prey, stream

study, forestry, exploring the watershed using map and compass, etc. – communicate information to team teachers

□ Discuss student payment for the residential program with school administration – anything charged above the county’s cost must be deposited into a separate IAF account.

Three Months Prior □ Locate previous year’s resources and review last year’s program □ Update parent letter and request translation(s) □ Contact OEEP coordinator to confirm first team planning meeting date □ Start contacting staff to determine coverage needs – particularly to hire subs

o See principal for present year’s sub allotment (The principal is the only one who may request an increase in the sub allotment for unusual circumstances – ex. large number of students with special needs.)

□ Complete bus reservations with field trip office (see financial secretary) □ Discuss SSL requirement for students with science RT, Grade 6 science teachers and SSL school

coordinator

Two Months Prior □ Meet with OE coordinator – full team meeting

o review the OE packet and handbook o discuss the curricular options and instructional objectives o choose which instructional units and match each with an instructor o determine training needs of teachers on these outdoor lessons o schedule trainings o choose roles: night nurse, KP teacher, energy chief, meteorologist, photographer, etc.

□ Determine how student lists will be created o team lists o bus lists o instructional groups – KP o dorm/cabin assignments o evening groups (if different)

□ Create schedule of lessons and activities o day schedule o evening schedule

Are outside performers going to be used? What food items are needed, if any? Quantities?

o KP rotation o Integrate SSL

□ Determine how students will be notified of their grouping □ Determine procedure for collecting permission forms and money □ Prepare for parent meeting

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o Collaborate with the Grade 6 administrator on planning and implementation of the meeting

o Contact ESOL department for an interpreter o Invite a 7th grade student from an underrepresented population (i.e. Latino) and

his/her parent to the meeting to talk about the program and address underlying concerns

o Arrange for school nurse to be present o Print copies of permission forms in multiple languages o Acquire OE power point, if desired – available in English and Spanish; show

videos if available Suggestion: Add own student pics to power point

One Month Prior □ Copy and distribute permission forms and packet for each student

o Be sure that special education and ESOL classes receive all materials o Ensure that ESOL teachers receive packets so that they can help facilitate student

comprehension of the material □ Conduct OEEP parent meeting □ Determine procedure for distributing and collecting permission forms and money □ Create the student lists □ Finalize the schedule of instructional programs and teachers for each □ Assure that teachers are trained for the lessons they will be teaching □ Conduct chaperone meeting and check names against the registry of sex offenders in MD

http://www.socem.info/

Two Weeks Prior □ Forward schedules to OE coordinator with time allotments and teacher assignments □ Send list of student participants to nurse □ Organize schedule, coverage and materials for stay-back students □ Create table assignments for meals (or number index cards for random assignments – 6 of each

number for Smith and Skycroft; 10 of each number for Summit Lake)

One Week Prior

□ Contact school cafeteria for extra lunches for first lunch and remind the cafeteria manager about the number of students that will be out of school

□ Finalize numbers and use the Organizer Meal count Form to send the following to Vicki Frank ([email protected])

o Numbers of students, teachers, parents, high school counselors o Number of vegetarians (students and adults) o List of student ID numbers

□ See the school nurse to for updates on students with special medical situations/meds, etc. □ Copy and prepare instructional materials (journals, worksheets, etc.) □ Gather materials for transportation to the site □ Decide how to organize students for departure: location, order for loading buses □ Reserve any media or PE equipment needed. □ Determine where students will put luggage and lunches when they arrive at school – assign

monitor to safeguard student belongings □ Distribute stay-back plans and student lists (going and not-going) to entire staff


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□ Prepare student lists and permission slips: boys and girls separated and alphabetized with an alphabetized list of names for each. Mark day-only students. All student permission forms must be reviewed by the school nurse

□ Create a staff emergency contact list including cell phone number, emergency contact name and phone number for every teacher, parent, and chaperone.

Day of Departure □ Pick up lunches from cafeteria □ Attendance – take it before getting on the bus and on the bus; report absentees to school

secretary and cross off students on lists. □ Pack buses with luggage and lunches – keep out supplies needed for hike □ Pick up medications – assign someone not going on the hike to carry meds and permission slips

directly to site nurse (students carry emergency medications) □ Bring permission slips, student lists, and medications to nurse’s office before the hike starts □ Call the Smith Center upon departure to confirm time to meet for the hike and how many adults

need a ride to the trailhead. □ Bring, email, or fax the financial assistance form (separate form for each session) □ Complete the “information for coordinators” form with final numbers and staffing

Upon Arrival Arrange for teachers who do not plan to participate in the hike to do the following: □ Carry meds, student lists (separate lists for boys and girls and both alphabetized) and permission

forms (organized into two piles by gender and each stack alphabetized) to site nurse □ Give the information sheet to the coordinator with final numbers and staff names □ Set out lunches □ Unload luggage buses □ Get materials ready for afternoon instruction □ Move personal belongings to dorm/cabin □ Meet with the chaperones to review their roles and expectations

During the Program □ Continue to communicate with the OEEP coordinator about schedule changes, facilities and

equipment needs □ Ensure teachers and chaperones are supervising and actively engaging students during class

time, transitions, meals, and dormitory time □ Keep a list of adjustments you’d like to make for next year’s program

After the Program □ Conduct an evaluation of the program with school staff to get ideas about how to adjust things

for next year (invite the OEEP coordinator if possible)

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Responsibilities During the Outdoor Environmental Education Program

Environmental Educator/ OEEP Staff

School Team

At all times: liaison between the site and the school staff

At all times: supervise students—cabins, dining hall, lining up, transition time, classes, rec time, etc.

Day 1 Introduction and Orientation

Hike In with Watershed and Safety Information along the way

Site Orientation before lunch and continued through lunch

Cabin Cleaning and Health Room Information by nurse after first lunch

Afternoon and Dinner

Teach afternoon class

Model Kitchen Patrol (KP) process for KP teacher

Pre-dinner announcements about meal procedures

Clean-up procedures and reminders Evening

Teach evening class

Snack assistance

Spend the night

Day 1 Introduction and Orientation

Hike In

Permission Forms and Meds to Nurse

Unload luggage

Set out lunches Afternoon and Dinner

Teach classes

Night Nurse starts duty at 4 pm

KP at 4:30 – KP teacher will shadow

Sit with students throughout meal and help with clean-up

Silver Spoon Evening

Lead evening activities

Snack

Spend the night

Day 2 Breakfast and Morning

Clean-up procedures reminders

Teach morning class Lunch and Afternoon

Cabin Inspection reports at the end of lunch (nurse)

Teach afternoon class – leave at 4 p.m.


KP at 7:30 a.m. – KP teacher will lead

Monitor cabin cleaning

Pre-breakfast announcements with meal procedures reminders


Silver spoon and post-meal announcements

Teach classes Lunch and Afternoon

KP at 11:30 a.m. – KP teacher will lead

Pre- and post-meal announcements Sit with students throughout meal and help with clean-

up

Silver spoon

Teach classes

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Day 2 Continued Dinner and Evening NONE – Gone Home!

Day 2 Continued

Night Nurse starts duty at 4 p.m. Dinner and Evening

KP at 4:30 p.m.—KP teacher will lead

Pre- and post-meal announcements


Silver Spoon

Lead evening activities

Snack


Teach morning class (by a crossover substitute provided by OEEP)

Write bill for services

Hike in for incoming group (environmental educator)

Lunch

Final cabin inspection report (nurse)


KP at 7:30 a.m.—KP teacher will lead

Monitor cabin cleaning

Pre- and post-meal announcements


Silver spoon

Teach classes

Hike with incoming students

Unload incoming luggage

Load outgoing luggage Lunch

KP at 11:00 a.m. (10:30 at Skycroft and Summit Lake)

Pre and post-meal announcements

Silver spoon

Last Day Collect and account for all OEEP materials

Last Day Return all OEEP materials

Remove school and student items from all spaces, classrooms, and cabins

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Evening Activity Suggestions

The following is a list of activities suitable for the evenings at Outdoor Environmental Education. The Outdoor Environmental Educator will only will be available on the first night of each session. Keep in mind the amount of daylight left for the evening, the amount of space you will have, and the staff available to coordinate activities and supervise students. The Smith Center’s main building (White Oak Hall) must be vacated by no later than 9:45 pm for cleaning.

Journal writing—reflection

Student service learning experiences

Night hike, Tower climb, Observation Hike

Campfire (with S’mores) with camp songs (can be moved indoors, if necessary)

Astronomy/star-gazing—star/planet/constellation ID/stories

Planetarium (Smith Center only; requires OE coordinator and a total capacity of 25 people in one sitting)

Expressions in Art—t-shirt painting, god’s eyes, medallions, leaf/fish printing, origami, gimp, quilt making

Instructional Games—Nature Bingo, Nature Pictionary, Nature Charades, Nature Scavenger Hunt

Silent Structures—group cooperation and team building

Carnival/Camp Olympics

Skits/Songs/Outdoor Ed Idol

Story Telling/Read aloud

Relay Races/Games

Nature scavenger hunt

Outdoor movie (supplies provided by the school)

Professional Presentations: These presenters are not endorsed by OEEP, but they have been used by many schools. Any fees charged for these guest performers must be provided by the school.

Reptile World—Michael Shwedick; 301-464-5600

Reptile Wonders—Brian Kristal; 410-374-0336

Scales and Tails— Dept. of Natural Resources; 410-922-8825

Live Music: Late Night with Kenny and Joel: MCPS teachers—Kenny Reddington and Joel Niswander (available on Outlook)

Under The Sea—Andrew S. Wilson; 800-986-3732

Square Dancing—Paul Phillips; 301-293-2467

Bruce Hutton–folk/old time music & instruments; 301-779-5901

Square dancing/old time music—Slim Harrison; 301-271-7928

Live animal presentation—Meadowside Nature Center; 301-924-4141

Singer/Songwriter—John Mornini; 301-540-8096

Storyteller—Jordan Hill; 202-821-5635

Adventures with Raptors – Deron Meador 240-405-8628

Link to MCPS’s Performing Arts catalog of approved performers: http://www.mcps.k12.md.us/departments/publishingservices/PDF/performingartscatalog.pdf

http://www.mcps.k12.md.us/departments/publishingservices/PDF/performingartscatalog.pdf

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Confidence Course Activities at Skycroft and Summit Lake

Teachers are only permitted to use confidence course activities that were covered in MCPS’ Confidence Course Certification Course (EE-06). If a teacher uses a piece of equipment that is not on this list and a student is injured, the teacher is liable.

Permanent Installations

Skycroft Summit Lake

Wall

All Aboard

Up and Over

Doughnut

Whale Watch

Fidget Ladder

Spider Web

Wall

All Aboard

Welcome Aboard

Up and Over

Whale Watch

Spider Web

Triangle Traverse

Swinging Balance Beam

Activities Available at All Sites

Trust Circle

Hand Scramble

Alligator Crossing

Marching Machine

Traffic Jam

Reactor Reload

Team Juggle

Mail Call

Turnstiles

Hula Hoop Pass

Name Game

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What’s New This Year? 2012-2013

New Coordinator: Courtney Hebert joins Mark and Brian as our residential team. Welcome, Courtney! New STEM Class for OEEP: Thanks to a partnership with NASA’s Global Precipitation Measurement Mission and the GLOBE Program, we have developed a new lesson called Survivor: Earth. In this STEM lesson, students investigate a new area searching for enough water to be able to survive. They use GPS units to navigate to several pre-determined locations where they will use testing equipment and make observations related to water availability. Lesson materials will be available for the Smith Center and Skycroft. Check our website or contact your coordinator for information about trainings and lesson plans. Confidence Course: Our confidence course handbook has been updated. Events that no longer exist have been removed. Modifications have been made to several events so they may be used with 6th graders. Please visit our website for the most up to date version. Assessment: We have been creating tools to assess student learning during the Outdoor Environmental Education Programs. Ask your coordinator about ideas on how your school can do this on your own and how you can help us. Staffing: For safety and behavior management, it is important to have at least two school staff members who are familiar with your students assigned to teach each instructional session. Your OEEP coordinator is considered one of your school staff members for the class they teach. Use parents and high school assistants for extra supervision. Site Details may change from year to year and your planning documents may need to be updated accordingly. Please review the site information in this handbook and ask your coordinator for the most up to date information. A few highlighted changes are listed below. Emergency information and protocols are continually being revised and fine-tuned. Please read the emergency information in this handbook and share it with your team before you arrive on site. All teachers must be aware of their roles in a medical, weather or other type of emergency. The coordinator will review this information with you; please ask them any questions you may have.

Student Service Learning opportunities are available at all sites. Some Grade six science teachers have been trained in the various lessons that have been developed by the OEEP staff. Your coordinator can provide you with lessons and more details. It is essential that you discuss your SSL plan with your coordinator before your program to ensure that proper materials are available for you and your students. Model Lessons on Video are available for the Exploring the Watershed using Map and Compass and Predator/Prey Relationships classes. Teachers are asked to attend our fall and spring trainings and then use the videos as refreshers. They do not take the place of attending an initial in-person training. Please ask your coordinator for copies of these.

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Updates for each site Smith Center You will see new faces and products in the dining hall this year. Enjoy and continue to provide us with your feedback!

There are several new outdoor classroom locations—behind the learning cottages, under the Solar School House Deck, and near the flagpole.

Exploring the Watershed and GPS classes are located in the Earth Cottage (next to the Stream Cottage). Please use these as indoor locations for these classes. Materials for the classes are stored in the classroom.

Skycroft

Linda Adams is the new nurse at Skycroft. Her contact information is: o Phone: 301-676-3216 or 800-536-6759 o Fax: 301-293-3481

Dinner will start at 5:30 p.m. Please update your schedule accordingly and talk with your coordinator about scheduling suggestions at Skycroft.

The Tree ID Using GPS lesson is available at Skycroft. Contact your coordinator for more details.

Summit Lake

The school will receive one adult meal included for every 12 students in attendance

Dormitories 1-16 are available for your use. Due to some renovations, bed numbers have been changed as follows.

o Dorm 1 = 14 beds o Dorms 2-4 and 7-16 = 16 beds o Dorms 5-6 = 12 beds

Consistent with last year, each table in the dining hall will seat 10 people. That means at least 1 adult, 1 KP and seats for 8 students. To determine how many tables you are given, divide your total number of people (students, staff, parents, counselors) by 10.

Meal costs: $7 for breakfast; $9 for lunch and dinner.

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Staffing Outdoor Environmental Educator (Coordinator): The educator/coordinator serves as a

liaison between the school’s staff and the outdoor education center’s staff and site. He/she works with the school to plan and deliver the program and curriculum that best suits the needs of the students. Before the program, the educator meets with the team to review the program and assists the organizer in the planning process. The educator is also available to train teachers and help them plan their lessons. During the program, the educator leads the hike on the first day, teaches one of the environmental science classes during instructional time, instructs the KP teacher during the first meal, and helps with the evening instructional activities on the first night. The educator also stays overnight the first night of each session. A “Night Facilitator” may replace the coordinator for the overnight; if so, the night facilitator will arrive before dinner and leave at 6:30 a.m.

Outdoor Environmental Educator Contact Information

Mark Granger [email protected]

Courtney Hebert [email protected]

Brian Shilling [email protected]

Teachers/Instructors: Schools must have a sufficient number of teachers to teach the instructional classes that are presented to students. At least two school staff members who are familiar with your students must be present at each instructional session. If extra teachers are needed, a list of substitutes knowledgeable of the lessons can be obtained from the coordinator. Use parents and high school assistants for extra supervision. Instructors need to be prepared to teach the classes when they arrive on site. Contact your coordinator for a list of training dates or plan to meet with the coordinator in advance to review lessons or the site. There are lesson plans for each lesson that should be reviewed; professional development videos are available for two of the lessons. On-Site Teacher in Charge: One teacher should be identified as the teacher in charge on site to give announcements and ensure that the schedule is followed. In most cases this person is either a team leader or the organizer.

Special Teacher Roles: Teachers need to be assigned to these roles - KP teacher, Night Nurse, Chaperone/Counselor Liaison, Meal Preparation for students who bring their own food. Overnight and Substitute Allocations: Schools will receive allocations for overnight stipends and substitutes from the Office of School Support and Improvement (OSSI). Questions about the allocations should be addressed by the principal to the community superintendent, including petitions to increase your allocations. The allocation ratio for the overnight stipend is: 1 teacher for every 15 students. At this time, administrators are not eligible to receive the overnight stipend.

mailto:[email protected]



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Adult Chaperones: Adult chaperones must complete a chaperone disclosure form and bring a bag lunch for the first day. All names should be checked against the registry of sex offenders in Maryland. http://www.socem.info/ It is also recommended to have an orientation meeting for chaperones once they are chosen to clarify duties and expectations. OEEP has a set of recommended chaperone practices for schools that include—

a. providing chaperones with the brochure, Chaperoning at the Residential Outdoor Environmental Education Program;

b. assuring that each chaperone complete and submit a disclosure form, which allows chaperones to voluntarily disclose prior or pending convictions;

c. checking the name of each parent chaperone against the Sexual Offenders Registry; and

d. ensuring that two chaperones be assigned to each sleeping area—the buddy

system

High School Assistants: Interested students must have permission from their high school to participate as a monitor. All student monitors must have a signed outdoor education permission slip, and a bag lunch for the first day. They must also be given a 2 hour study time per day. High School Monitors are students and must be supervised by adults. See “Talking Points for Student Monitors.” It is suggested to have a teacher assigned to coordinate chaperones/high school monitors both before and during the program. It is also recommended that the teacher hold an orientation meeting for monitors once they are chosen to clarify duties and expectations.

Identification: All non-sixth graders should wear identification. Staff member should wear an ID badge or clothing that reflects the name of the school/MCPS/ while at outdoor ed. Chaperons and high school monitors need to wear a generic guest badge. OEEP will provide badges at each site if you do not hand out your own. Security Talking Points:

Dorms/cabins are locked at night from the inside by an adult (occupants can get out in

case of emergency).

Students are not allowed in dorms/cabins without an adult and will typically only be in

dorms when the group is scheduled to be in the dorm. There is no “free” time.

Students are supervised at all times – the ratio of teacher to student is 1:15. The

addition of chaperons brings the ratio of adult to student to about 1:6 or 8.

Students are always in groups for instruction, eating, and sleeping. Restrooms and

showers are private.

Skycroft and Summit Lake are privately owned property; only renters of those facilities

and employees of the site have permission to be on the property.

The Smith Center is school property adjacent to park property. The Smith Center

buildings have alarms consistent with all MCPS school buildings and OSET plans

consistent with all MCPS schools. The park police patrol the property regularly.


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Best Practices for Recruitment

It is an expectation that all 6th grade students attend their outdoor environmental education program. The following list of strategies has been compiled over many years with continuous input from schools. One, some, or all of the strategies may work for your school. If you have any to add, please let your coordinator know. Make personal phone calls to parents of students who have not returned permission forms. Gently

ask if there are any questions or concerns that might be the issue, and attempt to address them. Callers who speak the native language of the parents are highly recommended; the Language Line is another option.

Conduct a Parent Outdoor and Environmental Education meeting one week prior to handing out permission forms. If possible, offer two meetings to meet the needs of parents who work nights.

o Suggested presenters include: 6th grade team leaders, Grade 6 science teachers, the school nurse, and two Grade 7 students and their parents who attended during the previous year (very effective in the Latino communities when the invited students and parents are Spanish speaking).

o Consider running a parallel meeting for Spanish-speaking parents. Arrange for an interpreter to be present at the Parent Meeting. (Ask OEEP coordinator for the power point overview of the program in Spanish.)

o Use ConnectEd to announce the date of the Parent Outdoor Environmental Education meeting and important dates in English and Spanish.

Involve the ESOL and Special Education departments to ensure that the program is inclusive. Have outdoor environmental education information or flyers available at ESOL or SPED parent nights. Ensure that ESOL teachers have a packet of information and some understanding of the program so that they can facilitate student comprehension in their classes.

Involve counselors, ESOL teachers, and parent community liaisons in advertising the parent meeting and encouraging families to allow their children to attend Outdoor Environmental Education. Provide Diez Minutos to parent community liaison. (Ask OEEP coordinator for a copy.)

Create a competition for forms and fees between classes and provide a reward like pizza or treats. Use data boards as a visual to track the number of students participating.

Entice students with a fun motivator. Leadership staff at one school said they would shave their heads if student numbers got to a certain level, and they did!

Remind students daily about due dates – use the morning news show.

Assess participation numbers two weeks before the trip. If below expectations, have students complete a survey with the following choices: A. I have returned by forms. B. I have not returned my forms, but plan to. C. A teacher needs to call my house about Outdoor Education. D. I am not going. Alternatively, conference with each student who has not returned a form.

Arrange for an Outdoor Environmental Educator (Coordinator) to speak to student groups, if schedules permit.

Communicate with parents and students: o Translated versions of the permission form and health form are available. Translated forms

are only for reference only as the parents complete the English version to hand in. o Financial support, in the form of waivers, are available for families in need. If possible,

families are requested to contribute some amount – from $5.00 - $30.00. Include a financial assistance request form with the information packet.

o Families should not have to purchase special supplies for the trip; the Smith Center can provide supplies like clothing, coats, and bedding for students in need. Also, consider asking your PTSA to donate items. NOTIFY THE SMITH CENTER BEFORE YOUR PROGRAM IF YOU HAVE A STUDENT IN NEED OF THESE ITEMS—WE WILL HAVE THEM READY!

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Instructional Reminders

Confidence Course: Each center has a confidence course comprised of a series of mentally and physically challenging events designed for groups of eight to ten students. The focus is on students using communication and cooperation to overcome obstacles or to solve problems. All activities are designed to increase confidence, promote teamwork, and improve human relations. To ensure that events are conducted safely, instructors must participate in the MCPS training Confidence Course Instructor’s Workshop (EE-06) and take a recertification workshop every three years before they can lead students in these activities. The instructor to student ratio should be kept to no more than 1 to 10. Instructors are only permitted to use confidence course activities that were covered in MCPS’ Confidence Course Instructor’s Workshop (EE-06). If a teacher uses a piece of equipment that is not on this list and a student is injured, the teacher is liable. Predator/Prey Relationships: Instructors for this lesson must be certified. Training workshops are offered in the fall and spring. Instructors must also be recertified annually by observing/reviewing the lesson with a Smith Center staff member. Contact your coordinator to discuss recertification opportunities. Lesson Planning: Teachers should obtain all training and curricula prior to arrival. Teachers are encouraged to attend the training workshops that are scheduled in the fall and the spring. If needed, the coordinator can provide lesson plans, materials, and assistance planning lessons before the program. Please save arts, crafts, games and sports for evening or special interest groups. Evening Activities: Schools plan a variety of evening and night activities for their students. The Outdoor Education Coordinator is available for the first night of your session. The Planetarium (Smith Center only) is available in the evenings and is only run by the OEEP coordinator or a trained teacher. The total capacity for the planetarium is 25 people including adults. Review the Evening Activity Suggestions sheet for more details.

Hike In

All hikers should wear long pants and weather appropriate clothing and shoes and carry nothing more than water. Students who need glucose, epi-pens or inhalers must carry them on the hike-in. All available teachers should hike with the students to assist with management and emergencies. If necessary, the Outdoor Environmental Education coordinator can provide transportation to the trailhead. Please call the Smith Center when you leave school so the coordinator knows approximately what time to meet the hikers. The meeting locations for the hikes are listed below.

Smith Center—Lake Frank parking lot off of Avery Road in Rockville

Skycroft—Michael’s Road entrance to Skycroft

Summit Lake—Eyler’s Valley Chapel parking lot

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Materials and Equipment

Instructional Materials: The OEEP provides the basic equipment and materials for each instruction session. Television and DVD/VCR are available at Smith Center and Skycroft. Only Smith Center has a Promethean Board. Schools should bring their own recreational equipment, craft supplies, and materials for evening activities. Supplies for students in need: We have new clothing, jackets, toiletries and bedding available for students in need. Please let the coordinator know in advance the sizes and items that are needed.

Computers and Internet: There are computers available at the Smith Center for teacher, parent, high school counselor use. Wireless internet connection is available at Skycroft Conference Center.

Facilities Use of Facilities: At each site, please use only the specific rooms/space you have been assigned. Please remind students and staff to respect all areas of the site by leaving them clean and in the condition you found them in. Leave doors closed and lights off when rooms are not in use. Outdoor fires: are permitted only in designated fire rings. Check with your coordinator about availability of firewood; it may be necessary for the school to provide their own firewood. Damage: Schools will be held responsible for any damage/vandalism to property and billed separately for any necessary repairs. Promptly notify staff of any damages. Tobacco and Alcohol: The state law banning the use or sale of tobacco on public school property is in effect at the Smith Center. Alcoholic beverages are NOT allowed on the premises at any location.

Site Details; Summit Lake

Eyler’s Valley Chapel – special consideration must be followed if using the historic chapel and cemetery area. Students must be supervised by at least one teacher and one support person, the gate should be used for entering and exiting, and gravestone rubbings are not permitted.

Dock – students may only be on the dock if under the direct supervision of a teacher.

Smith Center

Meadowside Nature Center – visits to the nature center are encouraged and can be scheduled by calling the nature center or through your coordinator.

Teacher Prep Room – may be used by adults and high school monitors for study time. There are computers and a printer available, as well as a refrigerator and microwave for the school’s use.

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Library and Conference Room – is for special program meetings so it may not be used as a meeting location or to store equipment. However, teachers are encouraged to utilize the resources in the library and can sign out books and materials using the card catalog.

Planetarium – holds a maximum of 25 people and can only be operated by Smith Center staff or a trained teacher.

Skycroft

Motel Rooms – in addition to the dormitories, each school may use two motel rooms for teachers like the night nurse or administrator. Motel rooms have two double beds and a private bathroom.

Meals, Dining, and Kitchen Patrol (KP)

First Lunch: Students, staff, and counselors must provide their own bag lunch on the first day. Water is provided at the site. The staff must request extra cafeteria bag lunches from their school cafeteria for students who are eligible for free and/or reduced lunch. It is suggested that lunches travel to the site in a personal vehicle or on the student buses in the event that the luggage buses arrive late. Kitchen Patrol Teacher: One teacher must be in charge of KP throughout the program. It is also recommended to name a backup teacher. This teacher should be present at all meals and available 30 minutes prior to the meal to instruct and supervise setup and after the meal for cleanup. Kitchen Patrol Students: All students should be assigned KP duty for at least one meal. There should be at least enough KPs assigned to each meal so each table has one KP. Students will report to the dining hall 30 minutes prior to each meal. (It is recommended that the KP groups are scheduled by instructional group to report for duty when they have the class taught by the KP teacher.) Table Assignments: Please make table and KP assignments based on the following numbers—8 people per table at Smith Center and Skycroft and 10 per table at Summit Lake. Each table should have at least one KP and one adult/chaperone. Use the fewest number of tables possible. Meal Times: Breakfast is at 8:00 a.m., lunch is at 12:00 p.m., and dinner is at 5:00 p.m. (5:30 at Skycroft). Day of departure lunch is 11 a.m. at Summit Lake and Skycroft and at 11:30 a.m. at the Smith Center. KPs should report 30 minutes prior to each meal. Schools are expected to arrive on time for meals and finish and clean up in a timely manner. Meal Costs: Schools are allocated 1 adult/chaperone meal per 6 sixth graders attending the program at the Smith Center or Skycroft. At Summit Lake, schools are allocated 1 adult/chaperone meal per 12 sixth graders attending the program. The school will be charged for meals above this ratio and for day students according to the information below.

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Site Adult Meals Included Cost

Smith Center

1 chaperone meal per 6 students

$4.35/breakfast Adults $5.50 $5.85/lunch $6.85 $6.85/dinner $7.85

Skycroft 1 chaperone meal per 6 students

$5.00/breakfast $6.00/lunch $7.00/dinner

Summit Lake

1 chaperone meal per 12 students

$7.00/breakfast $9.00/lunch and dinner

Vegetarian Meals: The sites can provide a separate vegetarian meal when vegetarian options are not already available. Please provide a number of vegetarian meals needed by the first day of the trip—this should include parents, teachers, and students. Allergies and dietary concerns: The dining facilities cannot accommodate dietary concerns other than vegetarians; nor can they ensure that the food is allergen-free. Therefore, students with food allergies or other special dietary concerns are encouraged to bring their own food. All sites have refrigerators and microwaves for storing, cooking or reheating food. An adult should be responsible for helping the student store and heat their food. At the Smith Center, which is an MCPS facility served by MCPS Food Services, information about possible food allergens is available at http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/foodserv/menus/sec_lunch_allergens.pdf. Trash and Recycling: If the school would like to weigh trash and recycling, please select a teacher other than the KP teacher to organize this. Summit Lake and Skycroft do not recycle but schools are encouraged to collect recyclables and bring them back to school.

Dormitories

Dormitory Rules: Students are only allowed in the dorm they are assigned and are not allowed to go into the dorm unless there is an adult or high school counselor present. There is no food, candy, gum, or drinks allowed in the dorms (except water). Turn lights off when the dorm is not in use. On the day of departure students are not permitted back into the dorms to use the bathroom after they have moved out. Schools will be held responsible for any damage or vandalism and billed separately for repairs. Heating and Cooling: Heat is available in the dorms at all sites. It should be adjusted by chaperones only and efforts should be made to conserve heat. Air conditioning is not available in the dorms, but fans are mostly available for warm weather. Dormitory Assignments: Please use the minimum number of dormitories required according to the capacities below. It is strongly advised that at least one adult or high school counselor sleep in the room with the students.

See the Site Information Section for more detailed dormitory information.

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Health Information

On-Site Nurse will be available from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Skycroft).

Night Nurse: A night nurse must be chosen prior to arriving at the Outdoor Education Center. This person must be a current MCPS employee. If possible, this person should be trained in basic first aid. A back up night nurse should also be named in case the primary night nurse has to leave unexpectedly. It is necessary for the night nurse to meet with the on-site nurse before 4 p.m. on the first day. Basic responsibilities of the night nurse include administering first aid and medication after the on-site nurse has left for the day. Please review the night nurse guide for further details. Medications: The school’s nurse must pack medications. Medications and permission slips must be delivered directly to the site health tech/nurse by 10:30 a.m. on the first day of each session. An exception to this is that emergency medications, such as epipens, glucose, and inhalers, must be carried on the hike-in.

Special Needs: Food allergies and special needs must be noted on permission slips. ALL PERMISSION SLIPS MUST BE REVIEWED BY THE SCHOOL NURSE. Consult with your coordinator in advance to discuss students with special needs/diets so arrangements can be made to ensure the student(s) can participate to the fullest extent possible.

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Site Specific Information

Lathrop E. Smith Environmental Education Center 5110 Meadowside Lane Rockville, MD 20855 Phone: 301-924-3123 Fax: 301-924-3149

This center, owned and operated by Montgomery County Public Schools, is located approximately in the middle of Montgomery County and is included completely within the boundaries of the Rock Creek Regional Park. The site is host to Grade six residential programs as well as day programs. Directions

From Washington Beltway (I-495)

Take Exit 31 for Georgia Avenue Travel North on Georgia Avenue past Leisure World Turn left on Norbeck Road (Route 28) At first light, turn right onto Muncaster Mill Road (Route 115) Travel 1.5 miles and turn left onto Meadowside Lane. Take the first right into the L.E. Smith Center parking lot

From I-270 North

Take exit 8 for Shady Grove Road Bear Right onto Redland Blvd. Cross Route 355 Turn right onto Needwood Road. Turn right onto Muncaster Mill Road. Cross Avery Road and turn right onto Meadowside Lane. Take the first right into the L.E. Smith Center parking lot

From I-270 South Take the exit for I-370 towards the Metro Take the Shady Grove Road exit just before the Metro access Turn left onto Shady Grove Road East Pass Midcounty Highway and turn right onto Muncaster Mill Road. Cross Avery Road and turn right onto Meadowside Lane. Take the first right into the L.E. Smith Center parking lot

Lathrop E. Smith Center Dormitory Capacities and Details: The Smith Center has 4 dormitories with 2 sleeping rooms per building. Each room has 10 bunk beds (20 beds). Please assign at least 16 students per room. Each dormitory building has one staff room with 2 bunk beds and a bathroom. To avoid confusion, please use the building names when assigning dorms. Each dorm has a NW and SE designation to identify the appropriate side. Generally, boys are assigned to dorms on one side of the walkway—Baltimore Oriole and Striped Bass; and girls on the opposite side—Baltimore Checkerspot and Black-eyed Susan. Baltimore Oriole, Striped Bass and Baltimore Checkerspot dorms are handicap accessible with ramps to enter the building. All dorms have handicap restrooms.

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Lathrop E. Smith Environmental Education Center Menu

Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Notes

Breakfast

Egg & Cheese Omelet Bacon

Assorted Cereal Plain Bagel

Cream Cheese Jelly Milk

French Toast Sausage

Assorted Cereal Bagel

Cream Cheese Jelly Milk

Lunch

Students bring their own lunch

Hamburgers and Hot Dogs (turkey)

French Fried Potatoes Side Bar

Vegetarian: Veggie Burger

Pizza* – cheese and pepperoni

Corn Side Bar

Milk

*Winter: grilled cheese and soup

Lunch Side Bar Baby carrots Ranch and

French Dressing Green Peppers Kidney Beans

Onions Tomatoes

Whole fresh fruit

Dinner

Baked Chicken Mashed Potatoes

Gravy Broccoli

Dinner Roll Salad Bar

Milk

Vegetarian: Macaroni and Cheese

Spaghetti Meat or Meatless Sauce

French Bread Green Beans

Salad Bar Milk

Dinner Salad Bar Salad mix Tomatoes

Shredded cheese Baby carrots Ranch and

French Dressing Jell-O with fruit

Whole fresh fruit Canned fruit Applesauce

Snacks Chocolate Chip Cookies, Milk

Sugar Cookies, Milk

The dining hall at the L. E. Smith Center is operated by MCPS Food Services. For nutrition and allergen information, please see the county’s menu information at http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/foodserv/menus/allergen.shtm

3/2011

http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/foodserv/menus/allergen.shtm

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Skycroft Conference Center 9621 Frostown Road Middletown, MD 21769

301-293-2202

Skycroft is located on South Mountain near Middletown in Frederick County. It provides a picturesque setting for the many exciting study areas of the Grade six residential program. Directions

From Montgomery County

I-270 North to Frederick I-70 West to Hagerstown Bear left onto I-70 West Exit 49 US-ALT 40 Bear Left (West) 8.4 miles Turn Right onto Washington Monument Road .9 miles Turn Right onto Monument Road .5 miles Turn Right onto Michael Road .5 miles Turn Right into Skycroft Conference Center

Skycroft Dormitory Capacities and Details

Total Number Attending Dormitories Used Total Available Beds

Up to 100 Western, Poplar, Holly and Laurel 120

100 – 120 Western, Poplar, Holly and Laurel,

Valley View 140

120 – 140 Western, Pine Tree, Poplar, Holly

and Laurel 160

140 – 160 Western, Pine Tree, Poplar, Holly,

Valley View and Laurel 180

Over 160 Western, Pine Tree, Poplar, Holly,

Valley View and Laurel, Hickory Lodge

200

Dormitory Total Beds Layout

Western Lodge 48 beds 2 rooms w/4 beds; 4 rooms w/ 10 beds

Poplar Lodge 40 beds 10 rooms w/4 beds

Holly 14 beds One room

Laurel 18 beds One room

Valley View 20 beds 2 rooms w/10 beds

Pine Tree 40 beds 2 buildings with 20 beds each

Hickory Lodge 20 beds 4 rooms

Please only use the assigned dormitories.

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Skycroft Dormitory Layouts

Pine Tree Lodge – 40 beds total (2 rooms with 20 each)

Pine Tree 2 20 Beds

Restro

om

s

Conference Room

Restro

om

s

Pine Tree 1 20 Beds

Poplar Lodge – 40 beds total (10 rooms with 4 beds each)

Room 2 Room 4 Restroom Restroom Room 6 Room 8 Room 10

Hallway Room 1 Room 3 Lounge Room 5 Room 7 Room 9

Laurel and Holly (lower level of Poplar) – 32 beds total (one room of 14; one room of 18)

Holly 14 Beds

Restroom Laurel 18 Beds Restroom

Valley View Lodge – 20 Beds (2 rooms of 10 each)

Room 1 10 Beds

Room 2 10 Beds

Lounge

Restroom Restroom

Western Lodge – 48 beds total (4 rooms with 10; 2 rooms with 4)

Room 2 10 Beds

Restroom Restroom Room 4 4 Beds

Room 6 10 Beds

Hallway

Room 1 10 Beds

Room 3 4 Beds

Lounge Room 5 10 Beds

Hickory Lodge – 19 total beds

Downstairs – 5 total beds - 1 double bed and 2 bunk beds Upstairs – one room with 6 beds (3 bunks) and one room with 8 beds (4 bunks)

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Skycroft Conference Center Menu

Monday to Wednesday Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Always Available

Breakfast

Pancakes Sausage Links

Oatmeal

Scrambled Eggs Hash Browns

Bacon Toast Grits

Fruit Assorted Cold Cereal Assorted Beverages

Lunch Students bring their own lunch

Assorted Cold Subs Steak & Cheese Subs

French Fries

Assorted Pizza Tater Tots

Corn

Soup and Salad Bar Assorted Beverages Assorted Desserts

Dinner

Spaghetti Meat or Meatless

Sauce Garlic Bread Green Beans

Salisbury Steak Macaroni & Cheese

Carrots Corn Bread


Snacks Cookies & Punch Cookies & Punch

Wednesday to Friday Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Always Available

Breakfast

Waffles Sausage Links

Cream of Wheat

French Toast Scrambled Eggs

Bacon Oatmeal

Fruit Assorted Cold Cereal Assorted Beverages

Lunch


Hamburgers/Hot Dogs French Fries

Assorted Pizza Tater Tots

Corn


Dinner

Baked Chicken Mashed Potatoes

Gravy Carrots

Dinner Rolls

Ravioli Green Beans Garlic Bread


Snacks Cookies & Punch Cookies & Punch

34

Summit Lake 7610 Hampton Valley Road Emmitsburg, MD 21727

301-271-9880

Summit Lake is located in the Catoctin Mountains near Emmitsburg, Maryland.

With historic farm buildings and the lake, it provides a picturesque setting for the

many exciting study areas of the Grade six residential program.

Directions

From Montgomery County

I-270 North to Frederick Route 15 North toward Gettysburg Exit to Route 550 near Thurmont Turn Left on Route 550 toward Sabillasville After about 3 miles turn right onto Eylers Valley Flint Road Bear left at the stop sign Pass Eylers Valley Chapel on your left and the camp entrance is the next left

Summit Lake Dormitory Capacities and Details: There are eight buildings, two dormitories per building. Rooms are not connecting. Dormitories are numbered 1 through 16. Please assign at least 12 people per dormitory. Usually boys are assigned 1-6 and girls are assigned 9-16. Cabins 5, 6, 9 and 10 are handicap accessible with ramps. The number of cabins available to the school is based on a 1 cabin per 12 people ratio. Beds are bunk bed style according to the following numbers:

Dorm 1 = 14 beds

Dorms 2-4 and 7-16 = 16 beds

Dorms 5-6 = 12 beds

35

Summit Lake Menu

Day 1 Day 2 Day 3

Breakfast

Scrambled Eggs Crumbled Bacon Toast w/ Butter

Cold Cereal Fresh Fruit Apple Juice

Milk

French Toast w/ Syrup Oatmeal

Cold Cereal Fresh Fruit Apple Juice

Milk

Lunch


Beef Macaroni Homemade Bread

Corn Applesauce

Jell-O Milk, Ice Water

Vegetarian: Plain macaroni with cheese

Sandwiches – Ham and Turkey Cheese, Tomato,

Lettuce Potato Chips

Fruit Homemade Cookies

Milk, Ice Water

Dinner

Pizza – cheese and pepperoni

Potato Chips Tossed Salad Orange Slices Fruit Punch

Milk by request

Rice Krispie Treats

Hamburgers French Fries

Lettuce, Tomatoes, Cheese

Pickle Slices Fruit

Orange Punch Milk by request

Pudding

Vegetarian: Veggie Burger

Snacks Popcorn, Pretzels,

Juice Popcorn, Pretzels,

Juice

37

Emergency Protocol

Emergency Procedures

An area is designated at each site as the emergency location. This location and emergency procedures are explained to students, staff, and chaperones during the orientation on the first day before lunch.

Fire alarm: Everyone must exit the buildings and report to the emergency location. Students line up (usually by instructional group), teachers take attendance and report it to the person in charge, and everyone remains outside until an OEEP staff member clears the building for re-entry.

Shelter: All groups report to the designated emergency area, attendance is taken, and all remain until the Shelter is lifted.

Lockdown: All outside activity groups gather separately and move quietly in a direction away (100–200 yards) from the main hall until communication is re-established. Inside groups will follow regular Lockdown procedures. Once a safer distance has been established, the leader needs to insure that all students are sitting and quiet. Attendance should be taken.

As with all schools, an emergency kit is located at each site.

If 911 is called, or a serious situation occurs, the OEEP coordinator must be informed and he/she will contact the OEEP supervisor and the site manager. The teacher will inform the school administrator and call parents as needed.

Reunification It is imperative that the school has a reunification plan and that reunification information for each student be communicated to the Smith Center. Identification All non-sixth graders should wear identification. Staff member should wear an ID badge or clothing that reflects the name of the school/MCPS/ while at outdoor ed. Chaperones and high school monitors need to wear a generic guest badge. OEEP will provide badges at each site if you do not hand out your own.

38

Inclement Weather Programs will run normally regardless of the weather, unless there is a two hour delay or if school is closed. If inclement weather is forecast while students are in residence, the OEEP supervisor, transportation, and the school administration will determine the safest course of action, which could include transporting students home early to avoid a major weather event. NOAA weather radios are located at each site – one stays with the nurse, the environmental educator carries one, and one is for the teacher in charge. If a weather event is forecast during a program, the teacher in charge should carry the weather radio to be alerted of approaching storms, tornadoes, etc. If there is a thunderstorm or severe storm (hurricane/tornado) warning during the program, outdoor activities are stopped and all students should report indoors to continue instruction. Outdoor activities continue in the rain, although some classes will need adjustment for safety reasons. Schools should have a rain plan in place for day classes as well as evening activities. Contact your coordinator in advance of the program for suggestions. Please remind students to pack and dress for the weather. Delayed opening on the first day of the program: Only students scheduled to attend the Lathrop E. Smith Environmental Education Center will be transported two hours late. Students scheduled to attend Summit Lake or Skycroft sites will be rescheduled. School cancellation on the first day of the program: The experience will be rescheduled into available time lots. School cancellation on the last day of the program: Students will be transported from the sites as soon as it is deemed safe to do so. Transportation and the OEEP office will communicate with your school regarding all decisions. Delayed opening or cancellation on the second day of the program: Students and staff will normally continue the program, although the OEEP supervisor, school administration and transportation office will decide on the safest course of action.

39

Tornado Protocol

MCPS Outdoor Environmental Education Programs 1. Supervisor, all Outdoor Environmental Educators and night facility

personnel carry a cell phone (ringer on) with Alert Montgomery downloaded

2. If a tornado alert is called and it is a ‘Tornado Watch,’ the Supervisor and/or Outdoor Environmental Educators /OEEP staff will communicate with the visiting school’s staff (OE organizer)

Supervisor/ Outdoor Environmental Educators /other staff will check and continually monitor the computer or TV to track the tornado alert area

School staff will match student groups to a designated Tornado Safety Area (see below): This plan will be put into action in the event that a ‘Watch’ becomes a ‘Warning’

3. If a tornado alert becomes a ‘Warning‘ in Montgomery County for Smith Center or Frederick County for Summit Lake and Skycroft:

Supervisor/ Outdoor Environmental Educators /other staff will check and continually monitor the computer or TV to see what part of the county is targeted

Tornado watches will be implemented: OEEP staff and school staff will become “tornado watchers” on a rotating schedule until the danger has passed

4. If tornado alert becomes a ‘Warning’ in the vicinity of the outdoor education site (for example, Rockville, Olney for Smith; Middletown, Boonsboro for Skycroft; Thurmont, Emmitsburg for Summit Lake), all students and staff will move to the tornado safety areas and assume the tornado emergency position against the wall until the Warning is lifted:

5. Outdoor Environmental Educator remains in residence (stipend) for the second night if warnings are underway

Tornado Safety Areas and Emergency Position Smith Center Skycroft Summit Lake

Dorm bathrooms – shower areas

Dorms – internal walls

Bottom of the Solar School House

Internal restrooms at White Oak

Planetarium

Gresham Hall basement interior hallway

Nelson Hall interior hallway between classrooms

Interior hallways or restrooms without windows in cabins

Dining Hall away from the sun porch

40

Forms, Payment and Finances

Permission Slips: Each student must complete MCPS form 345-7. Please visit the Outdoor Environmental Education Program’s website for links to the most up to date forms. Translations are available in Spanish, Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean. Permission slips must be signed and include an emergency contact with phone number.

The permission slips, student lists, and medications must be given to the on-site nurse before the students begin the hike in on the first day. Alphabetical lists of student attendees, separated by gender, must be provided for the site nurse (i.e. a list of boys and a separate list of girls, both arranged alphabetically.) Also, permission slips and medical permission forms must be separated by gender and alphabetized. DO NOT CARRY these items on the hike (only emergency medications like epi-pens and inhalers are carried on the hike).

Cost: The full cost is $76 per student. A student who stays for day activities only is charged for insurance ($1.60) plus the cost for meals. Full payment is required for any student who stays overnight, regardless of whether they eat the site provided food. Charges above the $76 should be approved by the principal and a separate account set up to receive the additional money. The parent information should clearly distinguish the $76 MCPS Outdoor Education cost from the amount the school is charging above that amount.

Financial Aid: It is an expectation that all 6th grade students participate in the residential program. No child should miss this opportunity due to financial need. If a student cannot pay the full amount, please ask the student to pay as much as they can. Then, record their name and amount paid on the Outdoor Environmental Education Financial Assistance Request Form. This form should reflect the names and amounts paid for students who did not pay the full $76. A separate form is needed for each session. This can be sent to Vicki Frank in advance or brought, emailed, or faxed on the first day of the trip. This list cannot be adjusted after the trip is completed. Please note: The funding for the students requesting partial or full waivers does not come from the local school’s accounts.

Transportation: The school must complete the Field Trip Request Application on the MCPS website as soon as possible. Call 301-444-8610 if you have questions.

Please use these forms as reference. If you would like to print a copy it is best to print the original and the most up to date forms from the MCPS website or the Outdoor Environmental Education Programs website http://montgomeryschoolsmd.org/curriculum/outdoored/

Forms in this section:

Outdoor Education Program Parent Permission (available in other languages – check our website)

Authorization to Administer Prescribed Medication

Emergency Care for the Management of a Student with a Diagnosis of Anaphylaxis

Financial Assistance Request

Adult Meal Count

http://montgomeryschoolsmd.org/curriculum/outdoored/

41

Outdoor Education Program Parent Permission

42

Authorization to Administer Prescribed Medication

44

Emergency Care for the Management of a Student with a Diagnosis of Anaphylaxis

45

Emer

48

Suggested Packing List

An electronic copy is available on the OEEP website.

Outdoor Education Adult Meal Count Complete this form and attach it to an e-mail to

[email protected] at least 1 week prior to your arrival at Outdoor Education

SCHOOL: OE SESSION: 1____ 2____ 3 ____ NUMBER OF STUDENTS ATTENDING: STUDENT VEGETARIANS: FORM COMPLETED BY:

DAY 1 DAY 2 DAY 3


49

Tick Advisory

If a tick is found on a student during Outdoor Environmental Education, please use this document to communicate with parents. Copies are available at teach site, or you may copy this one to send home.

TICK ADVISORY

During your child’s stay at Outdoor Environmental Education, it was necessary to remove ticks from some of the children, and it is conceivable

that other children removed ticks from themselves. You may want to question your child about removal of any ticks during his/her stay at the outdoor education center. Note the date of the tick attachment. A sudden moderate to high fever, which occurs in the next ten days, may be Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. Call your doctor. Early Lyme disease may be a mild flu-like illness and an expanding bulls-eye like rash at the site of the bite often appears during the first 31 days. Call your doctor. Early treatment is necessary to prevent serious and sometimes prolonged illness.

TICK ADVISORY

During your child’s stay at Outdoor Environmental Education, it was necessary to remove ticks from some of the children, and it is conceivable that other children removed ticks from themselves. You may want to question your child about removal of any ticks during

his/her stay at the outdoor education center. Note the date of the tick attachment. A sudden moderate to high fever, which occurs in the next ten days, may be Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. Call your doctor. Early Lyme disease may be a mild flu-like illness and an expanding bulls-eye like rash at the site of the bite often appears during the first 31 days. Call your doctor. Early treatment is necessary to prevent serious and sometimes prolonged illness.

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Sunset, Twilight and Sunrise Chart

grade 6 residential program handbook and … 6 residential program handbook and planning information...

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