Part 1: Permissions

1. How to read permission slips and disclaimers. What if a permission slip isn’t required?

   1. Fine print

      1. The story here – there was a permission slip to sign, but the  leader changed course because of the weather and neither the parents nor the school were told or asked or consulted

   2. Waivers

      1. The story here. You’d have to see a typical permission slip. Had they had been offered one for the change in plans.

   3. What do you do? Say no to your child who’s so excited about going?

      1. (You had to sign something about brain damage for your kid’s rugby and that was public school. I certainly didn’t think to research the leaders – I just assumed. He even took bus trips to away games. Who’s even driving the bus? Things you may think are givens are not. Ever.

      2. The bus driver conviction. Child was fine.

   4. Is a bus driver’s license enough? You assume background check. There is no such thing for outdoor industry.

   5. How to request evidence from the school admins. If they don't willingly provide, don't sign anything.

      1. Who do you ask?

      2. Get it in writing.

      3. Talk to the person who has the information.

*Although none of this matters when a guide changes course with no parental or school consent. Any waiver from the trip plan (that must be submitted in writing and approved by all school admin involved and some sort of expert?) is prohibited. The leader must carry some legal responsibility as a consequence. (Criminal negligence, for example.)

HAVE TO CHECK ALL DISCLAIMERS. Have an attorney look at it before signing? Sounds over the top. This is part of the conversation (link) I would like to have.

Georgia Rec Event 2009 article (about any level of experience - what permissions do they have to sign, what happens if there’s an accident?)