Field Trip Contributions

Field trips at Ann Arbor Open are viewed as integral to our students’ education, and a continuation of the classroom curriculum. They are largely planned by the classroom teacher, in collaboration with parents and students, although some are standard across the school or district.  Students might sample local produce at the Farmer’s Market, attend a University Musical Society production, or take a canoe trip on the Huron River. Beginning in the first grade, many classes go on an overnight field trip late in the spring semester. Parents must sign permission slips as needed for their child, and they are often invited to come along as chaperones.

Sadly, field trips cost money. At Ann Arbor Open, we believe that every child should get to go on every class trip, regardless of whether his or her family is able to pay for them. So, rather than ask parents to pay for their child for each field trip, the AAOCC asks you to make a single tax-deductible contribution to the Field Trip Fund at the beginning of the year.  There is a suggested contribution listed for each grade on the back of the Field Trip Contribution Form; this is the amount that the AAOCC guarantees each classroom per student. The suggested donation increases for the older grades, as they take longer field trips. (Parents of 7/8 grade students will hear more about separate fundraising for the year-end “big trip” on Curriculum Night.)

We understand that not all families may be able to contribute the full amount each year, or make a contribution at all; we just ask that you give what you can.  If you are able to give more than what is suggested, please consider doing so, as it will allow us to provide field trips for all students.  Your child’s teacher will not know how much your family contributed; the only person who does know is the Field Trip Contributions Coordinator.  However much you are able to contribute, please return your Field Trip Contribution Form as soon as possible; once we have received your form, we’ll stop pestering you with further reminders.
 
Please note that some classes may choose to take additional or longer field trips, and may spend more than the AAOCC guarantees.  Those classes will need to do additional fundraising to make up the difference.  Please talk to your child’s classroom teacher if you have any questions about their field trip ideas for the year.  

Questions?

Please contact our Field Trip Contributions Coordinator, Paul Siersma, siersma@flash.net