A Discovery Student Adventure is more than just a trip. Teachers who travel with our students are passionate about education and adventure. Discovery Student Adventures are the ultimate fieldtrip for students and teachers.
Requirements to travel:
- Must be an active or retired K-12 teacher
- Complete an online application
- Agree to terms and conditions
- Complete an interview questionnaire
- Supply two letters of recommendation, one from a supervisor, one from a colleague
- Complete an online health form
- Complete online safety trainings
- Be CPR certified by March 2010
- Pass a background check
Educators are also asked to actively participate with the students in all activities. Depending on itinerary, some of the more adventurous activities may include:
- Hiking 3-5 miles a day over uneven terrain in various weather conditions
- Exciting over-night experiences, including: camping, sleeping on ships, or even staying in a snow cave in New Zealand
- Mountain biking
- Rafting
- Swimming
- Snorkeling
- See detailed physical requirements
Travel Expectations:
Every step of the way, we ask our teachers to participate in the students’ education, preparation and safety.
Before Travel:
- Regularly log into teacher website
- Facilitate the education of students about the destination
- Answer student and parent questions
- Ensure all necessary forms and documents are obtained prior to travel
- Keep students and parents informed about trip preparations
- Serve as a liaison to Discovery Student Adventures
- Learn and exemplify the goals and mission of Discovery
- Host online forums with students to prepare for travel and education
- Ensure students are completing curriculum requirements
- Responsible for the pre-trip lesson plan assessment for students earning high school credit
During Travel:
- Lead students through all trip activities and transportation
- Effectively integrate provided discussion questions and related curriculum content into daily activities when appropriate
- Partner with travel manager and in-country guides to ensure smooth and coordinated travel experiences for all participants
- Ensure the safety and well-being of students by following Discovery Student Adventure guidelines
- Be prepared to stay longer or return early if circumstances require
- Assist students with any medical or health-related issues, including documenting needs and securing in-country medical treatment if needed
- Counsel students through any instances of home sickness, peer disputes or other concerns throughout travel
- Communicate to the Discovery Student Adventures office and parents in the event of illness, injury, or disciplinary incident
- Perform room checks and monitor curfews
After Travel:
- Responsible for checking on the completion of the final project for students earning high school credit