Dear SMS 8th Grade Students and Families,

We will again lead a group of 8th grade students to our nation's capital. From June 8 - June 11, 2010, the students will get the chance to discover first-hand the sites and history of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Washington, D.C. Departure will be via chartered coach the morning of June 8th and we will travel to Philadelphia to spend the afternoon and then arrive in Washington, D.C. that evening. We will spend the next three days sightseeing and return to South Middle School the evening of June 11th.

Because of the distance and time involved in this trip, the students who travel with us must demonstrate, at all times, a sense of responsibility while at school. This will ensure us that they will act sensibly and responsibly while on the trip, making the trip both safe and enjoyable for every student. In accordance with this idea and to fulfill the assurance given to the Westfield School Committee, the following trip requirements have been established:

1. Students must have a passing average in ALL subjects, including special subjects. These passing grades must be maintained at all times between now and the trip itself.

2. Regular attendance at school (no more than nine unexcused absences for the 2009-2010 school year, exceptions may be made at the principal's discretion).

3. Reasonable adherence to all school rules (NO external suspensions or chronic behavior problems).

Any student failing to meet these requirements will not be allowed to participate. These criteria are in effect until our actual departure. Failure to meet these requirmeents will result in cancellation of your registration.

The cost of this year's trip is $665.00 per student. This includes travel, hotel, all meals except lunch the first day, and admission to all sights and activities. To reserve a spot for your child, a completed registration form must be returned to World Strides (NOT SMS) with a non-refundable registration fee of $99.00. Please refer to the information packet for the cost, additional due dates for payment and cancellation information. A mandatory parent/student meeting will be scheduled in the spring of 2010 with specific information on trip highlights, itinerary, emergency papers, etc.

If you have any questions, please do not hestitate to contact the school or World Strides, our tour company at 1-800-468-5899.

Sincerley,

Ronald Rix , Arlene Speigel, Peter Lurgio

Please note this year's Cancellation Policy