Safety – Scholastica Field Studies

Safety is Always Our Top Priority

Safety and peace of mind are our highest priorities in field study operation and development. Field study locations, activities, and staff are all selected very carefully. Our focus is on immersing participants in an engaging learning environment, not high-risk adventure.

Staffing

At least one staff member of every field study is certified as an EMT (Emergency Medical Technician). This is not only first-aid, but 150+ hours of medical training. All staff members have received first aid training and CPR certification. Prior to each field study, staff participate in a Risk Management training program focused specifically on their field study locations and activities.

Program Design

Safety is built into the design of Scholastica Field Studies. Each field study maintains small groups, qualified staff, and reliable equipment and resources.

An Emergency Action Plan has been developed for each site visited during the field study. This plan has assessed the available medical, evacuation, and logistic resources available, has laid out concrete plans of action in case of an emergency, and has determined the best methods of keeping parents and guardians informed.

Insurance Information

All Field Study participants are required to be covered by medical insurance for the duration of the program. Scholastica does not endorse any specific insurance agency or company. If your child is without coverage, we can refer you to an insurance agent in Greensburg, PA who can work with you to secure a short-term policy. Rates will depend upon your choice of deductible and state of residence.
All Field Study participants will be enrolled in Travel Guard MedEvac Plan. This is included in the course cost. Travel Guard MedEvac may cover emergency medical expenses which are often not fully covered by your health plan, such as air evacuation services. Learn more about the Travel Guard MedEvac Plan coverage.

Vaccination Information

Scholastica Field Studies does not require participants to receive additional vaccinations other than those that may be outlined in the medical form that is provided upon field study enrollment. Since this field study takes place in an international location, Scholastica highly recommends that students and parents consult their family physician or a travel clinic about specific healthcare recommendations they might have regarding travel to Costa Rica. In addition, we strongly suggest that students and parents review the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) web site for more information regarding travel to Costa Rica.

STEP Enrollment

All students participating in this program can opt for enrollment in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP is a free service offered by the U.S. Government to U.S. citizens who are traveling to, or living in, a foreign country. STEP registers information about an upcoming trip abroad so that the Department of State can better assist you in an emergency. Additionally, STEP will notify registered participants about Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts and other information for a particular country.

U.S. Department of State Information

The U.S. Department of State site is updated daily with country specific information including safety details, entry/exit requirements, medical facilities, and more. Scholastica Field Studies consistently monitors this site for the most up-to-date information. We recommend travelers and parents to bookmark the site for their regular reference.