Grade‑Specific Days
Each Field Trip Day is dedicated to a specific grade to ensure age‑appropriate content and smoother scheduling:
- Elementary
- Middle school
- High school
This structure allows City staff to tailor demonstrations and explanations according to student comprehension levels, as outlined in the Field Trip Plan.
Group Assignments
To keep groups balanced and maintain the rotation schedule, students are assigned into four groups.
Groups may include students from multiple schools, depending on how many participants register for that day.
Outdoor Learning Experience
Most of the day’s activities, including department demonstrations and rotations, are planned to take place outdoors around City Hall. Students will see equipment up close, observe demonstrations and engage directly with various City departments.
Rain Plan (Indoor Backup)
If weather conditions make outdoor activities unsafe or uncomfortable, the City will implement its rain plan.
Per your existing communications:
- Teachers will be notified early in the morning via email if the event needs to move indoors.
- All presentations will relocate to the Community Center across the street from City Hall, ensuring students stay dry and the educational experience continues uninterrupted.
- Staff will be on-site to direct arrivals and assist with the transition as needed.
Department Rotations
Students visit several City departments for 20‑minute, hands‑on learning sessions, which could include:
- Communications
- Parks and Recreation
- Solid Waste
- Public Works
- Utility Systems
- Police Department
All presentations include demonstrations, visual aids and Q&A opportunities tailored to the grade level visiting that day.
Age‑Appropriate Learning
City staff adapt each presentation to match student grade:
- Elementary: Simple explanations, visuals, props
- Middle school: Discussions and subject tie‑ins
- High school: Problem‑solving and technical topics
Lunch Option
Groups may use the lunch area if they selected the lunch option during registration. The optional lunch period is available from noon to 1 p.m., and space is reserved in advance to ensure proper accommodation.
Parking & Safety
Teachers will receive a map and instructions on where to park. Staff and volunteers will help with pedestrian crossing and parking assistance throughout the event.