Check board policy to determine the role of the board in the authorization process for field trips, school teams and athletic events. Consider the following elements when authorizing field trips:
- A class or school activity that takes place in an adjacent municipal property or a shared facility (e.g. soccer field, library) may not require a formal permission form. It is prudent, however, to inform parents/guardians, obtain permission for student participation, ensure a method to alert the school office if a student is injured and inspect the property at the shared facility for hazards.
- Before a major excursion or high-risk trip, a meeting should be held with the parents, students, staff, volunteers and school administration to review the itinerary, health and safety protocols, criteria for exclusion, standards for behaviour, procedures for handling inappropriate behaviour, administration of medication, contact information and any other matters pertinent to the event. Parents should also receive this information in writing.
- Ensure that there is sufficient information on the form for parents to give “informed consent.” Use board permission forms.
- Ensure that parents understand and consent that if a student is sent home for inappropriate behaviour, it is at their expense.
- Written consent from parents/guardians, or the student if he or she is 18 years of age or older, must be obtained.