HANDOUT # 2 (November 16, 1999)

NEW TRIER TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL
Office of the Principal

TOUR EXPECTATIONS FOR
CHAMBER ORCHESTRA/ JAZZ ENSEMBLE TOUR OF CHINA

Philosophy 

The New Trier High School faculty and administration are committed to ensuring cultural understanding through a variety of educational experiences. One such opportunity is via international travel. The purpose of international travel is to: expose students to cultures different from home, expand awareness of the concept of the global metropolis, increase world understanding through homestays and other indigenous experiences, enhance language skills, promote world peace through an appreciation of differences, and facilitate curricula concepts and generalizations. In addition, it is the intention of the professional staff to coordinate activities emphasizing our responsibilities as ambassadors for U.S. and New Trier beliefs, values, and expectations. To that end, the following guidelines are designed. 

Rationale 

Life in a touring group requires an understanding and blending of personal as well as group needs. Group travel embraces personal benefits as well as limitations. Respect for the rights of others is fundamental to group harmony and establishing esprit de corps for chaperones and students. Participation in a group may require subordinating personal wishes for the good of the order. The following expectations are offered to ensure a positive living and learning climate for all participants. The tour leader has been empowered and directed to enforce the guidelines. 

Guidelines


1) All New Trier tours shall be a balance of experiences. Academic, sightseeing, group entertainment, unscheduled time, meals, and pre and post excursion meetings will require full participation by each group member. 

2) Group courtesies include arriving on time and departing on time. Punctuality shall be expected by everyone in order to facilitate the complete itinerary.

2) Curfews are designed for the health, safety, and management of the group. Curfews, "lights out," and quiet time must be communicated and respected to facilitate needs for privacy and sleep. 

3) Unless stated, all students shall be expected to attend all planned events.


5) Unscheduled time shall be organized by individuals with the chaperones. Under no circumstances will any individual be permitted to explore or tour alone.  Safety and security are paramount concerns and responsibilities of the chaperones and group members.

6) Students will not be allowed to consume alcoholic beverages at any time during this trip.

7) Possession or use of any drug is prohibited. The Chinese have the ultimate "no tolerance" policy, meaning immediate imprisonment for illegal drug use. Any student using any prescribed or unprescribed drug not listed on the student’s medical information card may be sent home at parental expense prior to the scheduled conclusion of the trip. Such situational decisions shall be the right, responsibility, and authority of the tour directors. 

8) Smoking is considered an infringement on the health of non-smokers and as such, smoking must be restricted. For that reason, there will be numerous restrictions. Students may present a note from a parent granting permission for their son or daughter to smoke during the tour. Smoking will not be permitted during regularly scheduled group activities. Smoking will only be permitted in designated areas as deemed appropriate by the chaperone. No smoking will be permitted on public transportation, in restaurants, on touring excursions, or in any hotel room or home stay. 

9) Dress must be culturally appropriate and compatible with the activities of the group as well as the standards of the nation being visited. A detailed expectation list will be shared with each tour group. Good taste and respect will be the ultimate guidelines. 

10) No driving of any motor vehicles shall occur. It is necessary due to insurance restrictions and the dangers of traveling strange roads under unfamiliar driving conditions and regulations. 

11) Violations of any rules may be cause for restricted participation or dismissal from the tour group at the expense of the parents. Students are always under the guidelines of the Student Guide Book and will be referred to the appropriate school officials upon return to New Trier. Since the entire tour is a school activity, all school rules and regulations apply.

12) The use or purchase of fireworks or any illegal weapons is strictly prohibited. Fireworks may not be transported on an airplane.