Middle School Field Trip FAQ

1.  How and when should I book my trips?

Sarasota County School 7th grade teachers can book in mid-August. If you have not already received the booking link, email megan.ehlers@sarasotacountyschools.net.

2. Where is the CFL?

The boat is docked at Marina Jack, downtown Sarasota.  Slip A31 is north of Le Barge on the south end of the marina.

3. Are there restrooms and a place for a quick picnic near-by?

The slip adjacent to Bayfront Park which has public restrooms.  Many teachers arrive early so that their students can have a picnic lunch prior to to the field trip.  

4. Can the students bring food and drink?

Students may bring water bottle on the trip, but lunches and backpacks must stowed.

5. What material or concepts should I cover with my students before the trip?

The students should be familiar with photosynthesis, producers & consumers, estuaries, vertebrates, invertebrates, predators, and seagrass beds. 

6. What will they see?

Sarasota Bay’s seagrass beds are a nursery area and habitat for a number of bay and gulf species.

7.  Are camera phones OK?

Camera phones are allowed as long as they’re used for pictures and not texting.  Please assist me by reminding your students proper use.

8. What should my students wear?

it depends on the weather of that day, but sun protection is recommended. Please keep in mind it is cooler on the water than on the shore during the winter.  Students should wear closed toe shoes as there is a possibility of a spiny fish dropping on their foot.

9. How many students may I bring?

The maximum number of students is 25.

10. May I bring a volunteer parent?

Volunteers (Level 2) are welcome if they come prepared to help.  

11. Does the CFL go out in bad weather?

No.  Fiedl trips are canceled if there is lightning or a Small Craft Advisory.

12. Does my school pay for this trip?

Sarasota County public school students in 7th grade do not pay for transportation or the trip. 

13. What is expected of me while we are on the boat?

It goes without saying that even though she floats, the CFL is still a classroom.  You will be expected to assist with classroom management.  

14. What is done with a disruptive or uncooperative student?

There is a bench at the back of the boat next to the captain.  However, depending on the disruptions we may need to return to the dock. 

15. Are the students allowed to stand up or walk around while the boat is underway?

There are parts of the trip where the kids need to stand up, but for safety reasons, walking around on the boat is prohibited.  They will be instructed when they need to be seated.

16.  How do I make arrangements for travel to Marina Jack?

The Transportation Department is very familiar with our program.  Call (941) 486-2141 to request a bus and driver.