Even if you’re the new teacher on the block, you can get your educational tours approved with a little preparation before going into the administrative lion’s den. With the right preparation, even those who are less than generous about educational tours will find it difficult to say “no” to your plan.
These are Junior Tours’ top tips for getting your educational tours approved.
Clarity and focus.
As an educator, it’s your job to present your educational tour concept to administrative decision-makers clearly, with laser focus as to the goals you have in mind. There’s no administrator living who’s going to respond to vagueness where learning objectives are concerned.
Remember, they’re the guardians of the curriculum, so you need to overcome their objections. Think of your presentation as a sales pitch.
Your “pitch” should include information about how your educational tour is going to satisfy goals for learning outcomes. It should also be precise in its explanation about how it satisfies local standards for subject matter.
Itinerary and budget per student.
Your itinerary, precisely delineated and presented with an eye to convincing administrators of your tour’s value should be presented with administrative objectives in mind. Every bullet point should knock off an item on your list of educator goals and administration’s list of required learning.
Presenting a budget for students which includes all necessary elements (food, accommodations, museum visits, transportation and contingencies) demonstrates your due diligence and there’s nothing administrators love more than that.
Don’t forget to include items like insurance and any information you have about security provided by your tour operator. Explain your provider’s payment plan in detail and how you intend to raise funds to support the educational tour.
Don’t forget to include information about your tour operator and their track record. This is important information that can compel a decision in your favor.
Presentation package.
Your presentation should be founded on a written document outlining all the points discussed above, with a detailed description of how the tour will satisfy both your goals as an educator and administration’s goals for area standards, as well as budget concerns.
Ensure that you print copies of your presentation for every administrator who will be present, plus a copy for yourself to work from during your presentation. Be prepared for questions. Anticipating the types of questions administrators are likely to ask will make you effective and confident.
Tell them you’re working with Junior Tours.
Junior Tours has been taking students on rich learning adventures for 50 years. Since 1967, we’ve been opening the door to enhanced educational experiences, working with educators in all 50 states. Founded by a teacher, we’re a personalized, boutique student travel resource that supports you with the best in educational tours.
Of our top tips for getting your educational tour approved, telling administration that you’re working with Junior Tours is the secret weapon every educator needs to gain that approval. We’ve been taking students places for a half century.
Ready to go? Contact us for a free sample itinerary.