Meeting Notes

Final Communication before travel!!!

Parents- Please make certain your students read and follow these directions.

Students- Please make certain to read and follow these directions.

First off… Have a great Friday night with your friends and celebrate finishing 8th Grade!

However… Remember that Monday is an early morning and will be an extremely long day, so…

• Make certain to get as much rest as possible Saturday and Sunday nights… Monday is an excessively LONG day.

• Meet at the front of the school at 2:45 AM.  Bus Leaves for the airport at 3:00 AM. Please be prompt so that we don't have to wait.

• When you arrive on Monday morning, please check in with your group chaperone (listed here).

•  You have been given a WorldStrides Lanyard. This MUST be worn at all times including when you arrive Sunday morning! Your nametag will be given to you by your group chaperone when you arrive, put it in the lanyard immediately after receiving it!

• You have been given 2 baggage tags. These MUST be filled in before you arrive on Monday morning with one attached to your carry on and the other to your backpack.

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• Make sure your parents have the Flight and Hotel information.

• Double check your packing to make sure you have everything including the Itinerary you picked up.

• Don't over pack. Remember, carry-on only on the way to DC. We may check bag(s) when we return to MN.

Because we are doing carry-on, please double check that your bags match the flight bag requirements.  We will travel on Southwest.  Also make certain you follow all TSA liquids regulations and  TSA: What Can I Bring.

Parents- pick up on Thursday night will be at baggage claim in Minneapolis. Southwest Terminal 2 at 11:50 pm on June 11.  One Parent/Guardian must check their traveler out from either Mr Bissonette, Mrs. Wegner, Mrs Fogle, or Mrs. Stagg inside the terminal at baggage claim.

Please make certain that you have read all of the information in this email and follow all of the directions for you and for your parents.

And finally, We will be attending Mass at the National Basilica on Sunday.  Though there is no dress code for this, Please make certain your Sunday outfit strictly follows the guidelines provided.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

See you Bright and Early on Monday!

:: Link to the Itinerary::

Hotel and Flight Information: 

Flights:

Monday, June 8:  

Arrive at PA at 2:45 AM

Departure from PA by 3:00 AM

Arrive at MSP airport by 3:30 AM.

Monday, June 8:

Outbound to DC:  

Flight:  Southwest Air #3658     

Depart from MSP Airport 5:25 AM

Arrives DC 8:50 AM

Thursday, June 11: 

Return from DC:  

Flight:  Southwest Air #863  

Departs DC 10:05 PM

Arrives MSP 11:50 PM 

**Parents should plan to meet returning students at Southwest baggage claim (TERMINAL 2).

Hotel Information-

This year we will be staying at the Sheraton Reston in Virginia.

Address: 11810 Sunrise Valley Drive Reston, VA 20191

Phone: 703-620-9000

How to be good tour guests-

The DC Trip (as fun as it is) is an extension of the PA classroom and the tour guides are guest teachers. For students who are disrespectful on the tour, the following steps will happen:

Step 1: students will be asked to please re-focus; 

Step 2: (if that fails) students will be assigned a new seat.

Step 3: (if that fails) students will be seated next to a chaperone; 

Step 4: (if that fails) the parent/guardian will be contacted and the students may have to forfeit the touring and tour guide experience. 

I know you will be excited to see our nation’s capital city, and  I do need to take a moment to address a couple common concerns that have come up in the past:

• - "Stay to the Right” When we are out walking, please trying not to block entire walkways!  DC is a large city and there are many tour groups visiting at the same time we are.  Keeping to the right side of pathways respects the others visiting, working, and living in DC.

• - Move quickly and efficiently from place to place without being disruptive or disrespectful.

• This means watching where you are going, keeping your phones in pockets until we stop,  and following directions.

• - Pay attention to your surroundings.  Know how close you need to stay or how far you can wander away from the group while touring the areas.  Keeping ear buds out of your ears while instructions are being given.  Staying to the side of pathways or moving over to let people by.  Your behavior, how you and and what you say while walking and viewing attractions is important to note too.  

• - Pay Attention: When we are on the bus, walking, or at an exhibit.  Make sure to pay attention to the cues that the chaperones or the tour guide is giving so that you will know when to transition from your private conversations and instead to give full attention to the guide.

• - Pay attention to the time.  You will be given a certain amount of time to wander at exhibits/ tour stops.  Be respectful of that time and know when and where you need to meet back up.  

Phones, tablets, cameras, and computers!

All are acceptable but the students are responsible for their own device.  TSA has guidelines for some devices, please check with TSA: What Can I Bring.

Cameras are great...We see a ton of sites that will want to be remembered.

Tablets and Laptops are fine for the Hotel, but there is very little time while touring to use them.  Our bus rides are often filled with stories and site seeing as we travel from destination to destination so we ask that the students are listening at that time.

Phones (and Earbuds).  Well... 

They are awesome and awful all at the same time!  First, as smartphones now have great cameras, students can snap pix and then share them with their family very easily, sharing their trip and experience.  Second, They are usually small enough to fit in a pocket or small pouch.  They also have the ability to play music, so with earbuds in, the student can zone out on those longer bus rides.  And, most importantly, they are really good for communication if a student were to ever be separated from the group.  

The challenge with the smartphone is when students are constantly Snapping, Tweeting, or Instagramming with their tour-mates or listening to music as we are touring sites.  This problem has been most prevalent when we are touring.  We should be listening to the tour guide's stories and explanations about the sites.  When students are too busy with their devices, they are missing a main part of the experience and the trip. 

We will often ask/ remind students to pop out the earbuds or put the phones away when we the tour guide is talking.  We also remind the students that we will collect phones if the social media/ ear-budding becomes a problem.

While the students are at school and at home, many of our internet providers have parental controls in place.  As we will not be able to monitor every student's activity, you may want to look into setting the device specific parental controls. 

Friday 5/29/26 Communication:

Parents- Please make certain that your students have read this.  I have heard some are not reading their emails

Students- Please make certain you read this and understand what needs to be done the last week of school.

• You will be given 2 baggage tags before Friday June 5th. Please fill them out neatly and clearly in PEN and attach them to your carry-on bags.  The group name is Providence Academy.  These MUST be on your bags when you arrive Monday morning!

• You will be given a WorldStrides Lanyard with your name badge in it. Your name badge MUST be worn at all times, including when you arrive Monday morning!

• We will meet at the front of the school at 2:45 AM with a 3:00 AM departure from PA to get to the airport by 3:30 AM in order to make our 5:25am flight.  I understand it is likely way more time than we need, but I would rather be too early than trying to rush through security. Please be prompt so that we don't have to wait. 

• As of right now, the DC forecast shows Temps in the mid to high 80's with mostly sun.  There is always a chance of rain at some point, so you might consider packing a light raincoat.

• Shipping a box to the Hotel in DC?

  • Yes, this can be done and can be helpful to have plenty of snacks, especially for those with allergies.  

  • Must be sent to WorldStrides, Care of Dominic Bissonette/Student name 

  • That will ensure it gets to our group.

  • Please let me know if you are planning on this so that I can look for it when we arrive.

• Don't over pack! 

  • Remember, carry-on only. We may check bag(s) when we return to MN. 

  • Please double check bag requirements:  Southwest.  

  • Make certain you follow all TSA liquids regulations and  TSA: What Can I Bring.

• Medications-

  • If your student does take or might take a medication during the trip, you must send the medication in its original container in a ziplock bag with the student's name on the bag.  Please also include any special instructions in the bag as well.  

  • I will only have a small amount of Ibuprofen, Acitomeniphine, and Benadryl for emergency needs.  If you student takes these regularly, please include them in a ziplock bag with their name on it.

• Parents- Pick up: 11:50 pm on June 11.  

  • Baggage claim, Southwest Terminal 2

  • One Parent/Guardian must check their traveler out from either Mr Bissonette, Mrs. Wegner, Mrs Fogle, or Mrs. Stagg inside the terminal at baggage claim.

Parents: Please reiterate these Important Reminders to your child:

• Courteousness at the hotel, restaurants, and tour sites.  Please be respectful, kind, and demonstrate appropriate behaviors.

• Buddy System:  Stay in groups of at least two at all times, preferable Four.

• Stay hydrated. Dehydration will happen very easily and is not fun! The best way to battle this is a Refillable water bottle and drinking fluids often.

• Eat! Eat something each meal.  Not eating enough food will cause your body to shut down. An easy way to battle this is to eat breakfast with some protein as well as eating something during each meal.  Loading up on snacks prior to departure in the morning can help too.  There is often fruit and such at breakfast to grab.

• Failing to eat enough or drink enough water will cause you serious issues by the end of the trip. Trust me…

Students: You must meet with Mr Bissonette before you leave school Friday, June 5th to pick up your final trip information.

• Times Mr B will be available:

  • Tuesday through Thursday in the PAC Lobby from 8:30 - 3:30

  • Friday from 12:05 to 12:30  in the PAC Lobby

  • If you can’t make one of these work, you must schedule to meet with him.

Please make certain that you have read all of the information in this email and follow all of the directions.

Please let me know right away if you have any questions.

May 18: Communication #4 Notes:

DC 2026 Trip Info:  Monday, May 18 

Providence Academy & World Strides Tours____________________Group Leader:  Mr. Bissonette

****  Instead of an in-person meeting May 20th, (Banquet night). 

I will be present in the great room from 6:00-845 to collect tip money and answer any questions.

• Money- Everything is included in the cost of the trip except for souvenirs, extra snacks/drinks, tip money.

• Spending- WorldStrides recommends $50-100 ( but less than $250) for souvenirs. Travelers and parents should discuss expectations regarding what is to be considered reasonable spending. Debit/credit/prepaid cards work really well, but can be challenging and very upsetting if lost.  Having some cash ($20 in 1s or 5s) is great for those quick snacks and waters.  

• Tipping- Not for Mr B… For the Tour Guide and Bus Driver

  • $35.00  Again, this is not for MrB.  

  • Tip Money is due to Mr. Bissonette by Wednesday, May 21.

  • Payment Options HERE 

• Meals:  All meals are covered in the trip.  Snacks and drinks outside of meal time are not, so cash/ card will be needed for those.   

  • If you have not filled out the Parent Questionnaire or contacted Mr B or the School Nurse directly about allergies, please do this so that we can make certain we do not have any issues when it comes to eating.

  • World Strides and I will try our best to accommodate students but we can only do so if we know ahead of time.

• Sleep, Meals, Walking and Hydration:

  • Each year we have someone get “Sick” from not getting enough sleep, nutrition or water.

  • The amount of time we spend out in the sun and on very long walks will zap the energy stores! Students do need to remember to eat something for breakfast and lunch as well as drink plenty of water throughout the day.

  • Walking- To say it's a lot of walking is an understatement.  We walk everywhere.  The bus will drop us off at a certain point, but we must walk to the actual sites after being dropped off.  On average, we will walk 8-10 miles per day.  

  • With our super early departure I ask you all to make absolutely certain to prepare for the trip by sleeping during the weekend prior, during out bus rides, and during the flight.

  • In regards to eating, I do understand that some students do not want to eat for many different reasons, however, this is a situation where choosing not to eat could cause a major issue.

• Homework: Your homework for this meeting DUE Friday, 5/22 by Midnight!

  • Parents- Please fill in the Parent Questionnaire if you have not already done so.

  • 1- Fill out THIS student contact form.  This form is collecting your cell number and a parent's cell number so that I have them in the event of an emergency.

  • 2- Visit the TSA Liquids Rule site so you know what you can and can't bring.

  • 3- Visit the Airline websites to make certain your bags fit.

    • Southwest

  • 4- Look over the suggested packing list 

  • 5- Make sure your parents know the flight and hotel information. 

Other Items to consider bellow:

Flight and Hotel info are at the very end:

• Snacks and drinks

  • Extra snacks should be considered for this trip, even if students do not have an allergy or dietary restriction.  We burn off a lot of calories walking and having a quick snack in your back would be very wise.  We have had parents send a box of snacks for their student in their room to the hotel.  That would be fine to do again this year.  You must send the box to the hotel with the student name on it and “ care of WorldStrides/ Dominic Bissonette”.  That way we can make sure it arrives in the right place.

  • Drinks.  Drinks are expensive on the street corners in DC.  Students need to make sure they have a refillable water bottle that they can take with them each day on the bus.  We often have bottled water available for $1 on the bus as well, so having a couple single bills can help when their bottle runs out.  

• Travel Etiquette 

It is important for all travelers to remember there is a very big difference between traveling with your family and traveling with a large group of students. Please make sure to pay attention to the following points:

-Use “inside voices” on the bus and in the exhibits.  Even outside at times. 

-Move over on the sidewalk. 

-When adults or the Tour Guide is talking, stop what you are doing and listen.

-“Please, Thank you, and Excuse me” when necessary. 

-Have consideration for other guests when we are at the hotels (and restaurants). This means respecting the “lights out” time, staying quiet in the hallways, keeping noise to a reasonable and minimal level.

-Sitting/ leaning: In some locations this is a gesture of Protest/ Demonstration or Disrespect. -Please listen and pay attention to the tour guide when they give instructions on when and where you can sit. 

• NO GUM.  Gum is ONLY allowed on the flights to help with ear popping.  No gum is tolerated anywhere else on the trip.

• Night time security-  There will be a security guard posted in the hallway outside your rooms for the duration of the night.  They will start at 10 PM and will end at 6am.  You are expected to be in your rooms and quiet during these times.  If you are not, the security guard will knock on your door and tell you to be quiet.  I will then receive a report in the morning about the overnight behavior. 

• Cell Phone reminders: Yes, bring them… but Remember that I can take your phone away if you are using it unwisely… Distracting others from the tour guide, distracting yourself from the tour guide, bullying, etc…

  • Make certain to have a wall charger and a portable battery charger.  With all the photos and snap chatting, your phone may not last the full day!  

  • Group Chats- Don’t create them.  You may keep your friend groups that you have but no new groups without including every person on the trip.  

  • Headphones/ earbuds- Yes, bring them. but use them appropriately.  Take them out when the Tour guide or an adult is talking and when we are at exhibits.

  • Stay off your phone while walking! 

  • Do text/ snap/ send pictures of your trip to your family!

• Contacting parents during the trip… Yes students… You  should contact your parents each day and let them know how the day went, what you did that day....  Trust me, they miss you and would love to hear about your day.  However, If you are having problems with other travelers or the trip itself, Please talk to me first so that I can try to sort out the issues before you call home.  Calling home first will only delay the resolution.

• Medications: Prescription and Over the Counter

  • If your student is taking medication (prescription or over the counter), you will need to send that along with your students.  It should be in the original container and in a ziploc bag with their name on the bag.  Special instructions should be included if necessary. 

  • OTC and prescription meds can only be given if the PA Authorization for administration of Medication. and  PA Authorization for Ibuprofen/ Acetaminophen forms  were filled out.  If you have not filled these out and your student might need something administered, please return these immediately.

  • I will have some ibuprofen, acetaminophen, benadryl, antacid and other first aid supplies however, the previously mentioned forms are required for me to give this out.

• Gift Shops-  Don't stress out about souvenirs, you have opportunities for this.

  • We always have a souvenir stop planned for the trip.  This is a specific stop at a souvenir shop.

  • Each museum usually has a shop as well.  We will have time at the end of the stop to hit the shop. Do the museum, exhibit, experience first... then go to the gift shop.

Next meetings:  

May 20th, 6:15-830PM Banquet night. No official Meeting.  

Instead I will be present to collect tip money and answer any questions.

Friday June 5, 12:02PM- Students must  meet Mr B in the PAC Lobby For last minute updates and such.

Monday, June 8, 2:45 AM-  PA Front Steps- required for all student travelers.  See times below

Flight Information: 

Please be ready to listen and follow directions as we speed through the airports.  You will get your boarding passes when you arrive at PA on Monday morning.  Seats will be assigned and you are not allowed to change seats.  Be prepared to go through TSA security by listening and following their directions.  We will meet at Providence Academy early on Monday morning and will return late on Thursday evening. 

Monday, June 8:  

Arrive at PA at 2:45 AM

Departure from PA by 3:00 AM

Arrive at MSP airport by 3:30 AM.

Monday, June 8:

Outbound to DC:  

Flight:  Southwest Air #3658     

Depart from MSP Airport 5:25 AM

Arrives DC 8:50 AM

Thursday, June 11: 

Return from DC:  

Flight:  Southwest Air #863  

Departs DC 10:05 PM

Arrives MSP 11:50 PM 

**Parents should plan to meet returning students at Southwest baggage claim (TERMINAL 2).

Hotel Information-

This year we will be staying at the Sheraton Reston in Virginia.

Address: 11810 Sunrise Valley Drive Reston, VA 20191

Phone: 703-620-9000

Parent Info Meeting: March 10, 2025

This "meeting" was conducted as an E-Bulletin to all 7th grade parents.  This E-Bulletin basically asked if your student was interested or not.  If parents were interested in sending their student on the trip, they were asked to fill out a google form, were directed to this website and then had the opportunity to have a direct conversation with Mr Bissonette.  You can find the E-bulletin message here.

Parent Info E-Mail UPDATE: March 18, 2025

This Update was to 7th grade parents that filled out the 2026 DC Interest form.  The form basically asked if your student was interested or not for the DC 2026 trip.  This UPDATE email contained the link to register directly form WorldStrides and also re-directed to this website.  Though the registration site states an in person meeting, there was not an in person meeting, so no one has missed anything yet!

Please reach out to me with any questions.

Mr Bissonette

April 3, 2026: Communication #1 Notes:

Providence Academy & WorldStrides Tours

Group Leader:  Mr. Bissonette

This first Informational email to parents and students is to begin collecting the forms for the trip, get room assignments, and then to give a quick overview of other information.

• Chaperones: Mr Bissonette, Mrs Fogle, Mrs Stagg

  • This will be Mr Bissonette’s 11th year traveling on this trip

  • Mrs Stagg, one of PA’s Science teachers, is traveling for her Second year.

  • Mrs Fogle, the 9th and 10 grade Learning Specialist, This will be her first year on the trip.  

• Rooming- Selecting RoomMates. Your requests are due by Midnight, Thursday April 9.

  • Please fill in the selection form with your choices.  I strongly encourage you and your friends to talk to each other and plan it out!  If all four students request each other, it's a lot easier in the end! Yep… There will be four to a room! The more of you that all select each other, the easier it is to assign rooms! If you do not talk to each other and just randomly select people, I will do my best to place you, but it becomes difficult to place people with friends then.   Here is the list of travelers included in the email so you know who you can pick from.  All requests will be finalized by Mr Bissonette and PA administration.  I will do my best to make sure you are placed with as many of the requests as possible.  At minimum you will be placed with at least 1 person you requested.  For safety and security reasons students may not change rooms once finalized…. Plan ahead!

• Forms- These forms are required and need to be filled out and turned in by Thursday April 16. 

**All of these forms are required for the trip.  

** They should be turned in to Ms Taylor or to Mr Bissonette directly.

• Medical Release Form

• Behavior Contract

• PA Authorization for Ibuprofen/ Acetaminophen

  • This form should be on file at the school.  If you are unsure it is on file, please fill it out and turn it in.

• PA Authorization for administration of Medication.

  • This form must be signed by a doctor for anything taken other than Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen.

Overview of the rest of the details to begin thinking about--

• Meals- Travelers receive breakfasts at the hotel or at a local restaurant. Groups eat fast food, food court, or cafeteria-style lunches while touring and are provided with sit-down dinners. If a traveler has special dietary needs, inform Mr. Bissonette prior to departure. In the rare case that specific accommodations cannot be made, those who suffer from complex or extreme food allergies are advised to pack adequate snacks and/or have extra meal money to subsidize uniquely prepared foods, if necessary. It is recommended that all travelers grab snacks from breakfast or pack snacks for the day to keep energized.  Bottled water in DC is around $4.  Having a water bottle that can be filled each day is recommended.  

• Safety- Lanyard wallets or small pouches are recommended to carry money in but not required. Backpacks are great to carry everything on the bus, but at stops, you will not take the back pack off the bus. Sunscreen!  We spend lots of time outside.  Comfortable Shoes and socks (to avoid blisters), NO FLIP FLOPS.  Hotel Keys- someone from your room needs to have one.  Buddies - you are never to be without 1 other person with you!

• Attire: All clothing must be “PA Appropriate”. We are more relaxed on this trip to accommodate comfort, however we still follow the “neat, clean, and modest” guidelines. No political attire at all. Plan appropriately, it is usually very warm in DC in June but can be chilly in the mornings.  Shorts and t-shirts are perfect with a light jacket/ hoodie that can be removed and left on the bus. No bikinis or spaghetti strap tank tops. Ladies, I know it is a challenge to find “PA Appropriate” shorts/ skirts that are comfortable and attractive to wear.  Do your best… If you have questions about if something is appropriate, Mrs Claypool, Ms Taylor, Mrs Wegner, or even Mrs Carron can help “approve'' it for you.  Closed toe comfortable shoes are a must!  You will be walking a lot! A raincoat/ rain poncho is recommended as well, but no umbrellas.  I might have PA gym uniforms along for those breaking these rules. There will not be an opportunity for swimming so no swimwear is needed.

• Cell Phone reminders: Phones are for staying in contact with parents and group leaders if you become lost.  However, they make awesome cameras as well.  As a music/ social media device, be aware that there are appropriate times to be focused on the tour guide and when you can be zoned out on your device.  Group chats are discouraged, however if you create one it MUST include everyone.

• Money- Break down.  All meals and lodging is covered in the trip cost.

• Spending- WorldStrides recommends $50-100 (I say around $250) for souvenirs. Travelers and parents should discuss expectations regarding what is to be considered “reasonable” spending. Debit/ credit card/ Phone apps work well.  

• Tipping- No, you are not tipping me, it is for the WorldStrides tour guide and the bus driver.

  • Tour Guide $5.50/day ($22), Transport $3.25/day ($13), 

    = $8.75 per day ($35). 

• Luggage- We only take carry-on luggage to DC, so be prepared to pack light. We will talk more about this when flights are confirmed.

• Travel Itinerary- Specific details include the flight schedule, hotel and sightseeing information will be sent to us soon. We will forward all information to you as soon as it is available.

Any Questions? Please contact Mr. Bissonette,  dominic.bissonette@providenceacademy.org 

April 17: Communication #2 Notes:

Providence Academy & WorldStrides Tours                                                  Group Leader:  Mr. Bissonette

• Chaperones-  Mr Bissonette, Mrs Fogle, Mrs Stagg, Mrs Wegner

• Forms:  DUE ASAP- These are due back to Mr Bissonette by Thursday April 16).  Many of you have them turned in but I am still waiting on some.  I will be reaching out to students directly if I do not have their forms. Here is the LINK to the folder with the forms

  • Behavior Contract

  •  Medical Form

  • Middle/Upper School  Ibuprofen/Acetaminophen Authorization Form

  • Authorization for Administration of Medication at School

    • Remember that this form is needed for anything taken other than Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen.

• Rooming:   This year's room assignments can be found HERE.

  • All requests have been finalized by Mr Bissonette and PA administration.  For safety and security reasons students may not change rooms now that they are finalized. Room preferences were based on your selections and the advice of Mrs Claypool and Mr Goetz.  All efforts were made to pair you with your roommate choices and all have been paired with at least one person they requested.. 

  • Hotel rooms are for rest and preparation for the next day.  You should use the time in the room to calmly unwind, shower, and sleep.  The most important word here is sleep, Lack of sleep has caused many issues on past trips.

  • As a reminder, you will be sharing rooms at the hotel with 3 other students.  Please respect the needs of each other while in your room.

  • Remember that when we are at the hotels and restaurants, Please have consideration for other guests. This means respecting the “lights out” time, staying out of the hallways, keeping room noise to a reasonable and minimal level.

  • There will be a Night Security guard outside your rooms from 9pm to 6am to help ensure that you are staying in your rooms and quiet during the night time hours.

• DC Parent Questionnaire:  

  • Students… Please make sure to share this with your parents so that they can be in the loop!

  • Parents- Please make sure to fill out the form as it will help me understand any unique situations about your student as well.

• DC Website- Parents this website will be updated after each email so that you have an easy place to find everything.

• Hotel information:  Hotel information has not been provided yet.  

  • It is typical that the hotel is located on the outskirts of DC, usually about 25 minutes from DC proper.

  • Examples of past hotels: Crowne Plaza College Park, Sheraton Reston,  The Westin Tysons Corner, 

• Flight Information: Flights have not been finalized yet, but I wanted to make sure you know what it will look like.

  • On the morning of departure:  Please be ready to listen and follow directions as we speed through the airports.  You will get your boarding passes when you arrive at PA on Monday morning.  Seats will be assigned and you are not allowed to change seats.  Be prepared to go through TSA security by listening and following my instructions and the TSA’s directions.  

  • We will meet at Providence Academy early on Monday morning and will return late on Thursday evening.  Below is a very rough estimate of how departure and return times will go: 

    • Monday, June 8:  Arrive at PA at 5:10 AM

    • Departure from PA At 5:30 AM to arrive at MSP airport by 6:30 AM.

    • Airlines #TBD:     

    • Depart from MSP Airport 7:47 AM

    • Arrive in DC 11:11 AM

    • Thursday, June 11: 

    • Airlines #TBD:   

    • Departs DC 8:10 PM

    • Arrives MSP 9:50 PM    ***  Parents should plan to meet returning students at baggage claim.  

Please note!!!   The times are in flux.  This means that they will likely adjust a bit before we travel. However, they will be close to the time listed… so be prepared for a very early Monday morning!

Now it's your turn:  Students, You will need to reply to the email I sent you for this “meeting” by 4/23. --Parents, Please make sure that your student emails me.  

• Please use “DC Meeting 2 Reply” as the subject line of the email.  DO NOT reply all…

•  In that email, students, please tell me these 3 things: 

  •  Did you remind your parents to fill out the “Parent Questionnaire” from above?

  • Does your parent know how to access the DC website so they can see these notes?

  • What is your favorite emoji… Don't just tell me share it with me!

Upcoming topics for our next communication:

What follows here is information we will be looking at in the next couple information emails.

• Packing:  We attempt to only do carry-on on the flight out.  Though we are not sure exactly what flight we are on yet, they all do share the 1 carry on and 1 backpack rule.  So… Please plan on a carry on bag and a backpack.  Once flights are finalized, I will share the carry-on guidelines for the specific airlines.

  • I will go over a full packing list in our next communication.  However it would be wise to leave all valuables or irreplaceable items at home. WorldStrides, Program Leader, and chaperone can not be responsible for lost or stolen items.

  • I will also be going over Allergies, medicines and prescriptions in our next communication.  As you begin to plan though, remember to keep prescription medicine in a container from the pharmacy. 

• Cell Phone reminders:

  • Cell Phones are fantastic tools to stay in contact with parents and keep them updated on the trip.  They are also great for taking pictures.  They can also keep you occupied on those long bus rides while we are traveling between sights.  However, the device MUST be set aside when the chaperone or tour guide is talking.  Failure to do so can result in confiscation of the device for the day.

• Contacting parents during the trip… Yes students should contact parents each day and let them know how the day went, what you did that day....  This can be through email, txt, chat, voice call, etc.  Trust me, they miss you and would love to hear about your day.  However, If you are having problems with other travelers or the trip itself, Please talk to me first so that I can try to sort out the issues before you call home.  Calling home first will only delay the resolution.

• Punctuality for all trip participants - BE ON TIME.  We will be waking up early, having breakfast, and on the bus by 7am each day.  There will likely be a “wakeup call” to each room at 6 am at the latest.  Please make sure you get up when and ready to go when your alarm goes off and head down to breakfast right away.  Also, when we are out and about on tours, make sure you are paying attention to the time.  often you will be broken into small groups to explore the site on your own and are expected to return at a specific time.  Please do so.

• Walking and general fitness…

  • Remember that we will be walking a lot.  When I say a lot, I mean each day is a minimum of 10000 steps!  You will be tired and your feet will hurt.  Make certain to bring comfortable shoes!  Remember that Flip Flops are NOT allowed.  Sandals are also discouraged as well.  Another great clothing item to think about is weather appropriate clothes.  It will be a good idea to check the weather forecast before departure, but in general, it is very warm in DC.  We often do encounter some rain so a rain poncho or collapsible rain coat is recommended.

  • The Buddy system:  You will always need to be with a group of friends on this trip.  DO NOT wander off alone, always make sure to have a “buddy” with you at all times.

• Meals- Travelers receive breakfasts at the hotel or at a local restaurant. Groups eat fast food, food court, or cafeteria-style lunches while touring and are provided with sit-down dinners. We will try to accommodate as best as possible all food allergies and restrictions.  In order to do this most effectively,  travelers that have special dietary needs will need to inform Mr Bissonette..  The sooner the better so that we can work out plans to accommodate as best as possible.  In the rare case that specific accommodations cannot be made, those who suffer from complex or extreme food allergies are advised to pack adequate snacks and/or have extra meal money to subsidize uniquely prepared foods, if necessary. 

• Attire: PA Appropriate - Closed toe shoes (no flipflops), No bikinis or spaghetti strap tank tops. No political attire at all. We will have PA gym uniforms for those breaking these rules.

• Money- Break down

  • All of the expenses are covered except for Souvenirs, some tips, and snack money

  • Spending- WorldStrides recommends $50-100 (<$250) for souvenirs. Travelers and parents should discuss expectations regarding what is to be considered reasonable spending. 

  • Tipping- We will give the Tour Guide and Bus driver a tip at the end of the trip.  This amounts to $35/Person.  For the week: Tour Guide $20, Bus Driver $15. 

    • Tip Money is due to Mr. Bissonette by Wednesday, May 20. 

• Travel Itinerary- Specific details include the flight schedule, hotel and sightseeing information will be sent to us soon. We will forward all information to you as soon as it is available.

Any Questions? Please contact Mr. Bissonette,  dominic.bissonette@providenceacademy.org 

May 8: Communication #3 Notes:

Providence Academy & WorldStrides Tours____________________Group Leader:  Mr. Bissonette

• Forms- I am still missing 9 of these forms.  I will be contacting parents/ students directly for those that are missing.  I am also missing 21 Doctor permission forms.  This form allows me to give anything other than Tylenol or Advil, including prescriptions, Claritin, Benydryl, Tums, etc…

  • Medical Release Form, Behavior Contract, PA Authorization for Ibuprofen/ Acetaminophen

  • PA Authorization for administration of Medication.

• DC Parent Questionnaire:  I am still missing about 20 responses for this form.  Please complete this as soon as possible.

  • Parents- Please make sure to fill this form out as it will help me understand any unique situations about your student traveler.

• Pre-Ordered Meal Order: A few of the places we stop require a pre-ordered meal.  

  • Please take a moment to fill in the meal request forms is here.  Due Monday, May 11 by 5PM.

• DC Website- Parents this website will be updated after each email so that you have an easy place to find everything.

__________________________________________________________________________________________

NEW STUFF!!!

• A few of the places we stop require a pre-ordered meal.  I will be sending out a followup Emails specifically to secure your meal requests. However, The first of these meal request forms is here.  This is due ASAP!

• Hotel information:

This year we will be staying at the Sheraton Reston in Virginia.

Address: 11810 Sunrise Valley Drive Reston, VA 20191

Phone: 703-620-9000

• It is typical that the hotel is located on the outskirts of DC, usually about 35 minutes from DC Proper.

• Examples of Past Hotels: Crowne Plaza College Park, Sheraton Reston,  The Westin Tysons Corner, 

• Flight Information: 

Monday, June 8:  

Arrive at PA at 2:45 AM

Departure from PA by 3:00 AM

Arrive at MSP airport by 3:30 AM.

Monday, June 8:

Outbound to DC:  

Flight:  Southwest Air #3658     

Depart from MSP Airport 5:25 AM

Arrives DC 8:50 AM

Thursday, June 11: 

Return from DC:  

Flight:  Southwest Air #863  

Departs DC 10:05 PM

Arrives MSP 11:50 PM   

• 
  On the morning of departure:  Please be ready to listen and follow directions as we speed through the airports.  You will get your boarding passes when you arrive at PA on Monday morning or at the airport.  Seats will likely be assigned and you are not allowed to change seats… Don’t Ask!.  Be prepared to go through TSA security by listening and following my instructions and the TSA’s directions.  

• We will meet at Providence Academy early on Monday morning and will return late on Thursday evening.  

• Parents must meet returning students inside at Terminal 2 baggage claim.  

• Meals- Travelers will receive breakfast at the hotel and meals at local restaurants in DC. The hotel food is usually bacon or sausage, potato cubes, scrambled eggs, pancakes or waffles, yogurt, cereal, fresh fruit,and some bread products like Muffins or danishes and bagels.  The local restaurants are sometimes fast food, but usually food courts or cafeteria-style lunches with a few sit-down meals. We will try to accommodate as best as possible all food allergies and restrictions.  In order to do this most effectively,  travelers that have special dietary needs will need to inform Mr Bissonette and the school Nurse.  The sooner the better so that we can work out plans to accommodate as best as possible.  In the rare case that specific accommodations cannot be made, those who suffer from complex or extreme food allergies are advised to pack adequate snacks and/or have extra meal money to subsidize uniquely prepared foods, if necessary. 

• Packing:  We attempt to only do carry-on on the flight out.  Please plan on a carry on bag and a backpack. Southwest's baggage guidelines can be found here.  It would be wise to leave all valuables or irreplaceable items at home. WorldStrides, Program Leader, and chaperone can not be responsible for lost or stolen items.

  • Please look at Mr Bissonette’s Suggested Packing List! for guidance on what to bring…If you are not sure please ask!

  • Weather appropriate clothes?  It will be a good idea to check the weather forecast before departure.  In general, it is very warm in DC when we travel.  We have encountered some rain in the past, so a rain poncho or collapsible rain coat is recommended. I do not recommend an umbrella though..

  • Any Allergies, medicines and prescriptions should be communicated to the school nurse right away so we can begin to plan.  As you begin to plan, remember to keep prescription medicine in a container from the pharmacy. 

• Attire: As you plan your “look” for the trip… Please remember:

  • We do still follow the PA Appropriate dress code. 

  • Neat, clean, and modest, and free from rips/ tears.  

  • No political slogans or attire.  

  • Closed toe shoes only, no sandals or flip flops are allowed 

  • No bikinis or spaghetti strap tank tops. 

  • I often bring a few PA gym uniforms for those breaking these rules

  • Here is my DC Dress Code document to help you plan your look

• Travel Itinerary- Specific details about sightseeing information will be sent to us soon.

• Money- Break down

  • Spending- WorldStrides recommends $50-150 (<$250) for souvenirs. Travelers and parents should discuss expectations regarding what is to be considered reasonable spending. 

  • Tipping- We will give the Tour Guide and Bus driver a tip at the end of the trip.  This amounts to $35/Person.  For the week: Tour Guide $20, Bus Driver $15. 

    • Tip Money is due to Mr. Bissonette by Wednesday, May 20. 

• Cell Phone reminders:

  • Cell Phones are fantastic tools to stay in contact with parents and keep them updated on the trip.  They are also great for taking pictures.  And they can also keep you occupied on those long bus rides while we are traveling between sights.  However, the device MUST be set aside when any chaperone or tour guide is talking.  Failure to do so can result in confiscation of the device for the day.

• Contacting parents during the trip… Yes students should contact parents each day and let them know how the day went, what you did that day....  This can be through email, text, chat, voice call, etc.  Trust me, they miss you and would love to hear about your day.  However, If you are having problems with other travelers or the trip itself, Please talk to me first so that I can try to sort out the issues before you call home.  Calling home first will only delay the resolution.

• Walking and general fitness…

  • Remember that we will be walking a lot.  When I say a lot, I mean each day is a minimum of 10000 steps!  You will be tired and your feet will hurt.  I’ll say it again… You will be tired and your feet will hurt!  Make certain to bring comfortable shoes!  Remember that Flip Flops are NOT allowed.  Sandals are also discouraged as well.  

  • The Buddy system:  You will always need to be with a group of friends on this trip.  DO NOT wander off alone, always make sure to have a “buddy” with you at all times.

Punctuality for all trip participants - BE ON TIME.  We will be waking up early, having breakfast, and on the bus by 7am each day.  There will likely be a “wakeup call” to each room at 6 am at the latest.  Please make sure you get up when and ready to go when your alarm goes off and head down to breakfast right away.  Also, when we are out and about on tours, make sure you are paying attention to the time.  often you will be broken into small groups to explore the site on your own and are expected to return at a specific time.  Please do so. 

June 5: Final Notes before Departure 2026