Calling All Teachers (and Parents too!)

[englanddg]

Ok, bear with me...here's the back story.

After a great cruise experience on the Fantasy in August, I've decided that a Disney Cruise is a must for us again next year. I'm still weighing options, but I'm strongly considering a 15 Night trip on the Disney Wonder through the Panama Canal!

It's a rather long cruise (May 2 through May 17) which I will follow up with a 4 nights at Disneyland I think and then there are days of travel. This makes the whole trip around 22 days long for the kid, going from April 30 until May 23.

The kiddo will be 9, and just finishing the fourth grade. She goes to school in Maryland, and I know based on previous experience that they can be a bit...serious...about missed days of school.

So, here's my question...

How would you go about approaching the school district to get approval for this trip?

Have you ever pulled your kids out of school for this length of time?

Any other general tips / advice?

Thanks!

P.S. There's another option of doing the same trip in September, but she would miss most of the first month of school. So, addendum question, do any of you think that may work better?

 

[Much-Pixie-Dust]

I am a teacher and IMO it's better to miss at the end of school, rather than the beginning, especially since your trip would be a rather long trip. I don't live in your area of the US, so things to consider with a May trip would be: When does your district do standardized testing? What is the policy for missing school due to trips? How would missing around 14 straight days (about 3 weeks) of school have an effect on your child academically (i.e. is she above, on, or below grade level)?

Sorry I can't be of more help. I have taken DD out of school for a trip each year, but it's only involved missing 3 days at a time.

 

[RandomPrincess]

14 days is a long time to be out of school. This is a very tough undertaking. You would have to be basically homeschooling her on the trip so she doesn't fall behind. What are the attendance policies exactly? If 14 days are unexcused I believe MD will make her repeat the grade. So the key is to figure out how to have them be excused days if you really want her to go. I know some places will excuse absences if they are for educational purposes. The truth is this will be a big task if possible at all, but it is a once in a life time trip. You will need to coordinate with the school to make sure all her work is done (if they will let you). How is her school with technology do they email the homework etc already? If so it maybe easier to make sure she is staying on task while on the ship.

 

[englanddg]

I am a teacher and IMO it's better to miss at the end of school, rather than the beginning, especially since your trip would be a rather long trip.

That was my thought exactly. I know at the beginning of the year teachers are ramping up lessons, and I thought an end of the year would be better.

When does your district do standardized testing?

Yikes, I didn't even consider that! Thanks! I will find out.

What is the policy for missing school due to trips?

They are pretty strict about it.

How would missing around 14 straight days (about 3 weeks) of school have an effect on your child academically (i.e. is she above, on, or below grade level)?

She is currently above average for her grade level in reading. Her math, I'm not really sure about. I think it could be a little better, but her grades are all Es (they don't have anything higher)...so...the school system seems to think she's doing fine.

Of course, I would want to communicate with her teacher, but they just started back, so I thought I'd wait for a month or so (around Parent / Teacher conference time) so that she can have a better understanding of my kid, how she learns, and where she's at / needs to be academically.

 

[Much-Pixie-Dust]

That was my thought exactly. I know at the beginning of the year teachers are ramping up lessons, and I thought an end of the year would be better.



Yikes, I didn't even consider that! Thanks! I will find out.



They are pretty strict about it.



She is currently above average for her grade level in reading. Her math, I'm not really sure about. I think it could be a little better, but her grades are all Es (they don't have anything higher)...so...the school system seems to think she's doing fine.

Of course, I would want to communicate with her teacher, but they just started back, so I thought I'd wait for a month or so (around Parent / Teacher conference time) so that she can have a better understanding of my kid, how she learns, and where she's at / needs to be academically.

Totally wait a month before telling the teacher, or even a little more! Not that it's up to the teacher, but some have stronger feelings than others about missing school for a trip. We have Es too. We are on the E,S, U system where I live and teach.
The biggest thing is to find out when they will be standardized testing. Once you do broach the subject with the teacher, offer to keep an educational journal or something from all of the ports of call. Reading and math would be pretty easy to keep up with during a trip. Your teacher will most likely mention the activities such as experiments and things of that nature that can't be replicated out of the classroom. He/She will most likely discuss the difficulties with sending so much work home prior or during the trip, so be prepared for that conversation. So approach the trip from it's educational advantages. You would be going through the Panama Canal! How awesome is that?!! IMO, don't mention the extra 4 Days at Disneyland. Focus on the educational opportunities that abound during the cruise.

It's this reason (and others) why I support a 40 days on and 15 days off year-round school schedule. We don't have it where I live, but I sure wish we did!

 

[englanddg]

14 days is a long time to be out of school. This is a very tough undertaking. You would have to be basically homeschooling her on the trip so she doesn't fall behind.

I'd kindof planned on that anyway. There are a lot of days at sea, and I thought we could set aside a few hours a day to have "class".

I did used to teach (though, not public school or children), so I am familiar with how to instruct and follow a lesson plan.

What are the attendance policies exactly? If 14 days are unexcused I believe MD will make her repeat the grade.

I'm having trouble finding the number of "excused" (called lawful) absenses the District allows (It's Montgomery County, MD)...but, reading through the Compulsory Attendance law, it seems that I would need to get this approved by her Principal or County Superintendent. This is what I expected.

That is exactly what they will make you do. So the key is to figure out how to have them be excused days if you really want her to go. I know some places will excuse absences if they are for educational purposes. The truth is this will be a big task if possible at all, but it is a once in a life time trip. You will need to coordinate with the school to make sure all her work is done (if they will let you). How is her school with technology do they email the homework etc already? If so it maybe easier to make sure she is staying on task while on the ship.

Her district is very good with technology. All teachers have computers, they have online lesson plans (not yet posted on her school's website, but they just started back, so...).

I was thinking of crafting an additional "lesson plan" and submitting it as part of my request. This would emphasis the educational activities we would do on the trip, and include tests / reports, etc...projects she can work on that solidify the information gleaned from the experience.

I also have looked through the Port Excursions, and isolated ones that have cultural, scientific or historical advantages (so...no "trips to the beach sort of things).

Here's what I'm thinking right now...

Key West - We would do the Conch Republic Tour and Museum.

• Board your trolley or train transportation for this approximate 60-minute narrated tour through the streets of Key West. Travel back through time as your guide tells stories of characters and customs behind the paradise island of historic Key West.
• There will be a stop at the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museumand the Key West Aquarium where you may explore these fascinating museums at your leisure on self-guided tours.

Cozumel - Highlights, Ruins and Discover Mexico Cultural Park.

• Board an air-conditioned, motor coach and embark on a 35-minute drive inland to your first stop, the recently excavated ruins of San Gervasio.
• Once there, embark on an approximate 60-minute, guided tour of the pre-Columbian Mayan site, where exterior columns and stone walls mingle with short ceilings and mysterious red-colored hand prints. Snap a picture of the century-old structures — such as the Chi Chan Nah, El Arco, and Nohoch Nah — and learn about the early civilization that once called this awe-inspiring place home.
• Discover Ixchel, the goddess of fertility and good health, and find out why ancient Mayan women traveled hundreds of miles to San Gervasio to pay homage to her.
• From the ruins, take a short 15 minute ride to a hacienda tequilera 'CAVA ANTIGUA'. Here you will learn about the process of making tequila, see agave plants as well enjoy a sample of this old, traditional drink. Tequila flavors are from unique tequila produced by their own distillery. All alcoholic drinks will be served only to Guests age 21 and older.
• Next, take the approximate 20-minute drive to the park, Discover Mexico. Celebrating the history of Mexico from the pre-Hispanic age to modern times, Discover Mexico is a cultural park brimming with eye-opening exhibits in sight and sound for the entire family.
• Upon arrival, you will be given access to the many facilities — and then enjoy your 90-minute visit as you so desire. Wander the beautiful landscaped grounds, and snap a picture of the many "miniature" archeological sites and colonial buildings.
• Stroll through the art museum and view age-old artifacts and award-winning handmade items from Mexico's finest artisans.
• Enjoy authentic Mexican cooking at the Mercadito Corona during a private fiesta complete with food, games, piñatas, and other surprises, and then shop for gifts at the souvenir boutique featuring arts and crafts both big and small.

Colombia - Chiva Bus Panoramic Tour

• Meet your guide and board your open-air Chiva bus for the start of your celebration through Cartagena. Chiva buses are a traditional Colombian sign of celebration  brightly painted and full of fun entertainment. Your lively host will provide full city narration intertwined with jokes, stories and sing-along songs with a live band.
• Travel approximately 30 minutes to a photo stop at San Felipe Fortress, the most important work of Spanish Military engineering in South America. Then onto the walled city of Cartagena to view Pie de la Popa, Centro, Boca Grande, Laguito and Castillo Grande.
• During the tour, Guests will have access to complimentary beverages(beer, soft drinks and bottled water) while your tour guide gives narration on the sights and sounds of Cartagena. Traditional Colombia snacks are also included
• Arrive at the old city for an approximate 60-minute stop at the historic Santa Calatina`s Bastion. Here, you can dance to the beat of the band, enjoy the local entertainment or browse the souvenirs and handicrafts at Las Bovedas Artisan Center.
• Before returning to the ship, spend approximately 30 minutes enjoying the panoramic views of Cartagena continuing your Chiva celebration to the pier!

Puerto Vallarta - Mexican Cooking Experience

• Embark on an approximate 50-minute drive across Mexico's picturesque countryside to a tranquil ranch nestled amidst the Sierra Madre Mountains. Along the way, learn about the fascinating history of Puerto Vallarta from your guide, and discover the savory history of traditional Mexican cuisine.
• Upon your arrival, make your way to the onsite kitchen and meet the chef — your instructor for the day's festivity — who will assign you a dish to prepare. Then, learn the secrets of cooking Mexico's most beloved dishes in an exciting "hands-on" cooking experience.
• Learn how to make authentic salsas, guacamole, stuffed peppers and more, and even create your very own special recipes. Savor a sip of wine during your cooking lesson and, after the hour-long class, enjoy the fruits of your labor as you dine on your very own mouthwatering creation.

Cabo San Lucas - Camel and Mexican outback Adventure (I wanted to do the Whale Watching...but that's out of season)

• Meet your guide and embark on air conditioned transportation to the paradise coast ranch .
• Travel through the main plaza and downtown area, before setting off on an approximate 30-minute ride through pristine desert canyons to aparadise coastal ranch overlooking the Pacific.
• After a short journey, take part in an approximate 20-minute nature walk. Receive an explanation of the benefits and healing powers of local plant life, passed down through generations by indigenous people. Breathtaking scenery abounds: Mexico's beautiful desert flora and fauna are a feast for the senses. A variety of birdlife soars overhead as you take an historic and ancient drive through cactus-lined streams and river beds.
• Experience an approximate 15-minute camel ride on a secluded beach, led by experienced and knowledgeable guides. Note: cameras may not be used whilst riding the camels but photos of your experience will be available to purchase afterwards at the ranch area.
• Participate in optional workshops, which will show you how tortillas are handmade and the distillation of tequila — a tasting is included! Experienced and knowledgeable guides are at the helm, providing entertaining narration every step of the way.
• Enjoy a mouthwatering typical Mexican lunch, including dishes such as "Mole" — chicken in chocolate and homemade salsas.
• Savor the fresh air and serene atmosphere; be sure to have your camera with you to capture the beautiful surroundings. Depending on season, enjoy a visit to our turtle preservation area and the sight of humpback whales in the nearby waters.

<shrug>

 

[RandomPrincess]

I'd kindof planned on that anyway. There are a lot of days at sea, and I thought we could set aside a few hours a day to have "class".

I did used to teach (though, not public school or children), so I am familiar with how to instruct and follow a lesson plan.



I'm having trouble finding the number of "excused" (called lawful) absenses the District allows (It's Montgomery County, MD)...but, reading through the Compulsory Attendance law, it seems that I would need to get this approved by her Principal or County Superintendent. This is what I expected.



Her district is very good with technology. All teachers have computers, they have online lesson plans (not yet posted on her school's website, but they just started back, so...).

I was thinking of crafting an additional "lesson plan" and submitting it as part of my request. This would emphasis the educational activities we would do on the trip, and include tests / reports, etc...projects she can work on that solidify the information gleaned from the experience.

I also have looked through the Port Excursions, and isolated ones that have cultural, scientific or historical advantages (so...no "trips to the beach sort of things).

Here's what I'm thinking right now...

Key West - We would do the Conch Republic Tour and Museum.

• Board your trolley or train transportation for this approximate 60-minute narrated tour through the streets of Key West. Travel back through time as your guide tells stories of characters and customs behind the paradise island of historic Key West.
• There will be a stop at the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museumand the Key West Aquarium where you may explore these fascinating museums at your leisure on self-guided tours.

Cozumel - Highlights, Ruins and Discover Mexico Cultural Park.

• Board an air-conditioned, motor coach and embark on a 35-minute drive inland to your first stop, the recently excavated ruins of San Gervasio.
• Once there, embark on an approximate 60-minute, guided tour of the pre-Columbian Mayan site, where exterior columns and stone walls mingle with short ceilings and mysterious red-colored hand prints. Snap a picture of the century-old structures — such as the Chi Chan Nah, El Arco, and Nohoch Nah — and learn about the early civilization that once called this awe-inspiring place home.
• Discover Ixchel, the goddess of fertility and good health, and find out why ancient Mayan women traveled hundreds of miles to San Gervasio to pay homage to her.
• From the ruins, take a short 15 minute ride to a hacienda tequilera 'CAVA ANTIGUA'. Here you will learn about the process of making tequila, see agave plants as well enjoy a sample of this old, traditional drink. Tequila flavors are from unique tequila produced by their own distillery. All alcoholic drinks will be served only to Guests age 21 and older.
• Next, take the approximate 20-minute drive to the park, Discover Mexico. Celebrating the history of Mexico from the pre-Hispanic age to modern times, Discover Mexico is a cultural park brimming with eye-opening exhibits in sight and sound for the entire family.
• Upon arrival, you will be given access to the many facilities — and then enjoy your 90-minute visit as you so desire. Wander the beautiful landscaped grounds, and snap a picture of the many "miniature" archeological sites and colonial buildings.
• Stroll through the art museum and view age-old artifacts and award-winning handmade items from Mexico's finest artisans.
• Enjoy authentic Mexican cooking at the Mercadito Corona during a private fiesta complete with food, games, piñatas, and other surprises, and then shop for gifts at the souvenir boutique featuring arts and crafts both big and small.

Colombia - Chiva Bus Panoramic Tour

• Meet your guide and board your open-air Chiva bus for the start of your celebration through Cartagena. Chiva buses are a traditional Colombian sign of celebration  brightly painted and full of fun entertainment. Your lively host will provide full city narration intertwined with jokes, stories and sing-along songs with a live band.
• Travel approximately 30 minutes to a photo stop at San Felipe Fortress, the most important work of Spanish Military engineering in South America. Then onto the walled city of Cartagena to view Pie de la Popa, Centro, Boca Grande, Laguito and Castillo Grande.
• During the tour, Guests will have access to complimentary beverages(beer, soft drinks and bottled water) while your tour guide gives narration on the sights and sounds of Cartagena. Traditional Colombia snacks are also included
• Arrive at the old city for an approximate 60-minute stop at the historic Santa Calatina`s Bastion. Here, you can dance to the beat of the band, enjoy the local entertainment or browse the souvenirs and handicrafts at Las Bovedas Artisan Center.
• Before returning to the ship, spend approximately 30 minutes enjoying the panoramic views of Cartagena continuing your Chiva celebration to the pier!

Puerto Vallarta - Mexican Cooking Experience

• Embark on an approximate 50-minute drive across Mexico's picturesque countryside to a tranquil ranch nestled amidst the Sierra Madre Mountains. Along the way, learn about the fascinating history of Puerto Vallarta from your guide, and discover the savory history of traditional Mexican cuisine.
• Upon your arrival, make your way to the onsite kitchen and meet the chef — your instructor for the day's festivity — who will assign you a dish to prepare. Then, learn the secrets of cooking Mexico's most beloved dishes in an exciting "hands-on" cooking experience.
• Learn how to make authentic salsas, guacamole, stuffed peppers and more, and even create your very own special recipes. Savor a sip of wine during your cooking lesson and, after the hour-long class, enjoy the fruits of your labor as you dine on your very own mouthwatering creation.

Cabo San Lucas - Camel and Mexican outback Adventure (I wanted to do the Whale Watching...but that's out of season)

• Meet your guide and embark on air conditioned transportation to the paradise coast ranch .
• Travel through the main plaza and downtown area, before setting off on an approximate 30-minute ride through pristine desert canyons to aparadise coastal ranch overlooking the Pacific.
• After a short journey, take part in an approximate 20-minute nature walk. Receive an explanation of the benefits and healing powers of local plant life, passed down through generations by indigenous people. Breathtaking scenery abounds: Mexico's beautiful desert flora and fauna are a feast for the senses. A variety of birdlife soars overhead as you take an historic and ancient drive through cactus-lined streams and river beds.
• Experience an approximate 15-minute camel ride on a secluded beach, led by experienced and knowledgeable guides. Note: cameras may not be used whilst riding the camels but photos of your experience will be available to purchase afterwards at the ranch area.
• Participate in optional workshops, which will show you how tortillas are handmade and the distillation of tequila — a tasting is included! Experienced and knowledgeable guides are at the helm, providing entertaining narration every step of the way.
• Enjoy a mouthwatering typical Mexican lunch, including dishes such as "Mole" — chicken in chocolate and homemade salsas.
• Savor the fresh air and serene atmosphere; be sure to have your camera with you to capture the beautiful surroundings. Depending on season, enjoy a visit to our turtle preservation area and the sight of humpback whales in the nearby waters.

<shrug>

I think that is a great tactic. That way they can see you are serious about her education and using the trip as a learning experience. Not just lounging on the beach.

 

[englanddg]

Totally wait a month before telling the teacher, or even a little more! Not that it's up to the teacher, but some have stronger feelings than others about missing school for a trip. We have Es too. We are on the E,S, U system where I live and teach.
The biggest thing is to find out when they will be standardized testing. Once you do broach the subject with the teacher, offer to keep an educational journal or something from all of the ports of call. Reading and math would be pretty easy to keep up with during a trip. Your teacher will most likely mention the activities such as experiments and things of that nature that can't be replicated out of the classroom. He/She will most likely discuss the difficulties with sending so much work home prior or during the trip, so be prepared for that conversation. So approach the trip from it's educational advantages. You would be going through the Panama Canal! How awesome is that?!! IMO, don't mention the extra 4 Days at Disneyland. Focus on the educational opportunities that abound during the cruise.

It's this reason (and others) why I support a 40 days on and 15 days off year-round school schedule. We don't have it where I live, but I sure wish we did!

I like the journal idea. We almost did something like that for the 2011 trip in the form of a short video report from the kid...we even made a theme song together (of course, the tune and editing was all me, but she did help with the lyrics)...



But, she only recorded a few video journals and there really aren't enough to turn it into a full "report"...so, I never finished it or posted them.

Anyhow, I'd want her to do a written report anyway.

My point is, I love the idea of the trip journal!

With respect to classroom tied events and activities, I'm hoping the teacher is willing to work with me. I'm certainly willing to utilize what I can to keep her on track with the classroom activities, even if it requires some investment in materials / books / science kits on my part.

As I said before, I also think it's worth taking a few hours and constructing a lesson plan of my own for the trip that would include supplemental materials, tests, and projects she could complete on the ship.

Also, I am fine paying for internet, so we can submit items to the teacher during the trip if they are ok with that.

Anyhow, that's the angle I think I'm gonna take.

 

[englanddg]

I don't know if this would have any impact, but she would be coming back to another 3 weeks of school after the trip.

 

[EOD K9]

My wife is a teacher in MD. I'll get her opinion.

 

[englanddg]

My wife is a teacher in MD. I'll get her opinion.

Oh, that's fantastic!

Thanks!

 

[englanddg]

With respect to Disneyland, they have a horticultural tour of the Park...so that could add some educational value to that part of the trip...

There are also the "historical" tours, but I'm not sure how much value would be placed on knowing Disney trivia/history! <grin>

Though, I guess I could build out from that a small lesson plan involving the history of animation or film...with a report tied to it.

But, I think @Much-Pixie-Dust is right, I'm gonna sort of gloss over that part of the trip. It's really just because...I can't be that close to LA and not take her! <grin>

Oh, and I don't think I mentioned this earlier. The cruise goes from Miami to San Diego.

 

[Much-Pixie-Dust]

It sounds like you have got a great plan and are incorporating many educational experiences into the trip. I hope all goes well with the school district and you have a wonderful trip! Keep us posted on the outcome.

 

[Nero the dog]

Even a beach day can be educational. A walk along the beach to look at the environmental impact of pollution, rubbish washed up or left on shore, the impact on wildlife etc. it doesn't have to be hours spent, just talking about it will give your child a new insight.

 

[MaryJaneP]

I hope you can do it with the current district, but plan B or C or D or whatever could be finding out what would need to be done to homeschool/cyber charter school your child during the time away, and if that would comport with state/district educational requirements. If you can afford and can schedule the trip, I think the "permanent record" your child will remember is much more valuable than any grief the system may "threaten".

 

[sweetpee_1993]

Haven't read they this thread yet but a different angle worth mentioning. In Texas its become kinda common to "skirt" strict attendance by withdrawing students altogether and stating that you are going to homeschool. ((They make you sign a form that says you will ensure your child learns reading, math, social studies, and citizenship. Not science, surprisingly.)) The parents take their kids on the long trips then re-enroll their kids when they're finished. Do I agree with this? I think its drastic and prob'ly a shame parents feel this is what they need to do to take their children on these types of trips. Personally, I think showing a child the world has its advantages and value. Its a sad day when this is what a parent has to do because of the necessity of strict truancy laws.

For this route you would need to know what the state's homeschool requirements are. What testing has to be completed if she's going to miss. That sort of stuff. Texas is one of the most homeschool friendly states (we won't be leaving the state until our sons both finish high school via homeschool). We are required to report nothing. We have no standardized testing requirements. We do what we do, keep careful records, write our transcripts, issue a diploma when we think its time, and make sure our SAT scores are noteworthy. Not all states are this easy. Others have much more detailed requirements. Be sure you know what they are. I'll recommend the HSLDA as a first stop to know your rights.

 

[englanddg]

Found the curriculum for her school...

http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/...entary/parent-guide-traditional-grade4-en.pdf

Hrm, I can easily work many of these topics into the cruise!

 

[mickeysbrother]

But honestly it comes down to YOU are the parents not the school... If you wanted to pull her for a month consecutive or she has 22 sick days in the whole year who really cares. If you know they are doing well in school then its worth it because you know they wont have trouble keeping up their grades when the come back to school. Just my 2 sense on my kids issues with school. Let me be the parent and all you have to do is teach my child. I went to school and don't have to be taught again. Well maybe my spelling but that's why there is spell check lol...

 

[englanddg]

Haven't read they this thread yet but a different angle worth mentioning. In Texas its become kinda common to "skirt" strict attendance by withdrawing students altogether and stating that you are going to homeschool. ((They make you sign a form that says you will ensure your child learns reading, math, social studies, and citizenship. Not science, surprisingly.)) The parents take their kids on the long trips then re-enroll their kids when they're finished. Do I agree with this? I think its drastic and prob'ly a shame parents feel this is what they need to do to take their children on these types of trips. Personally, I think showing a child the world has its advantages and value. Its a sad day when this is what a parent has to do because of the necessity of strict truancy laws.

For this route you would need to know what the state's homeschool requirements are. What testing has to be completed if she's going to miss. That sort of stuff. Texas is one of the most homeschool friendly states (we won't be leaving the state until our sons both finish high school via homeschool). We are required to report nothing. We have no standardized testing requirements. We do what we do, keep careful records, write our transcripts, issue a diploma when we think its time, and make sure our SAT scores are noteworthy. Not all states are this easy. Others have much more detailed requirements. Be sure you know what they are. I'll recommend the HSLDA as a first stop to know your rights.

My state is rather friendly about it as well...but Maryland, while it allows it...is not quite as open to it.

I just checked the requirements, and it would involve quite a few hoops to jump through, especially since after the trip we'd want to return her to her school.

So...while I like the idea, I don't think it will work out for this.

Rather, I'm hoping that the Principal of the school will work with me on this...and, for that, I think the first thing is to try and get the Teacher on board that this is an amazing experience that offers a variety of educational worth.

 

[Lucky]

Found the curriculum for her school...

http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/...entary/parent-guide-traditional-grade4-en.pdf

Hrm, I can easily work many of these topics into the cruise!

I actually live in Montgomery County MD but my kids don't go to their public schools. People here tend to be totally rabid about formal education. Good luck!