Title: CLS3-Independence Middle School's Educational Field Trip to Costa Rica

Recommendation:
The School Board approve an educational trip for a group of science students from Independence Middle School to travel to Costa Rica, Central America, June 6-13, 2006 for a learning experience of culture, witness wildlife in the ecosystems of the rainforest, and geophysical features.

Description:

A group of 15 students will be chaperoned by three school board employees.  The group will depart from the West Palm Beach Tri-Rail station and transfer to Miami International Airport on Tuesday, June 6, 2006 and return Tuesday, June 13, 2006.  This trip is planned after the school year ends so neither students nor teachers will miss any school.  The group will be accompanied at all times by a representative of the tour company, as well as having a driver at our disposal 24/7.

The trip will give students an opportunity to experience first-hand what they have researched in class:  wildlife in their natural habitat, as well as different ecosystems of the country.  The ecotour includes an opportunity to learn about tropical ecology at a private biological station, various nature trails, and adventures along, above, and below the canopy of the rainforest.  Students will learn that they are the key to future conservation and what efforts are being taken to protect our rainforests. 

The cost of the trip is $1450.00 which includes all travel costs, accommodations, entrance fees, and meals.  Fundraisers will assist students who encounter financial hardships for attending the trip.

The benefits to the district include:

• Broaden student/teacher cultural, ecological, and geological awareness.
• Aspire an appreciation of nature and the environment.
• First-hand experience in a variety of geological and ecological settings.

Financial Impact:
All funds will be raised through fundraisers and parent contributions so there is no cost to the District.

For Additional Information, contact:

Ann Killets   akillets@palmbeach.k12.fl.us

Marisol Ferrer

Gwendolyn Johnson

Attachments (list):
IndependenceFTR.pdf
IndependenceItinerary.pdf
IndependenceData2.pdf