Field Trips

Field trips are an important part of the school program and serve as an extension of the curriculum. They are planned in conjunction with something that is being studied in the classroom and can serve as an introductory-type activity, as a resource during a unit of study, or sometimes as a culminating activity. Each grade level will have a maximum of three paid field trips a year. Fifth grade will also go to Hard Bargain/Nanjemoy Creek and College of Southern Maryland (swimming) as part of fifth grade curriculum. (This is the only exception to the policy.)

Parents should reinforce Matula’s expectations for student’s behavior during the field trip and on the bus.

In order to go on a scheduled field trip, the student MUST bring a permission slip signed by a parent or legal guardian. In addition, there is usually a charge for the bus and sometimes an admission fee. Before each field trip, teachers will send home a letter giving details as to what each child needs to bring as well as any special information about the trip.

If for some reason a student does not go on a class field trip, he/she should still come to school. Appropriate assignments and a supervised place to work will be provided.

Interested parents are sometimes needed to assist the classroom teachers on field trips, depending on the number of other adult staff members available to chaperone. The number of adults needed depends on the age of the children and/or the place to be visited. Because of limited space on the buses and limited group size at some museums, it is not always possible to include all parents who wish to participate. Please be understanding since every effort will be made to be fair and give all those who wish to participate an opportunity some time during the school year to attend. Also, please keep in mind that only children who are students of Matula will be permitted to go on the trips.