All Things Chicago: ACPA’s 8th Grade Trip

ACPA's 8th Graders leave on Wednesday, April 16th for Chicago! See below for information to ensure you and your student are prepared.

Prior to Trip

  • Make sure all balances are paid and forms are turned in.
  • Drop off any prescription medication your student is required to take the day prior to the trip or the morning of. Medications should be in their original bottles and clearly labeled with your student's name.
  • We will be meeting with students attending the trip next week to discuss final itinerary, address any lingering questions, and have conversations on behavior expectations and consent. Some of this information is below - we encourage all caregivers to start these conversations with their students now to ensure everyone involved is prepared and confident about our trip!

General Reminders

  • Students must arrive at ACPA by 6:15am. You must provide your own transportation to ACPA. We will leave at 6:30am and will leave you if you're late!
  • For emergencies, please call (380) 282-4418. This will connect you to Ms. Blackwell. Please email blackwell@artcollegeprep.org with any non-urgent questions.
  • Students are allowed to bring 1 suitcase or duffle bag that will be stored UNDER the bus and 1 carry on that will be on the bus with them.
  • Do NOT bring any valuables. If you would like to bring a gaming system, make sure it is no bigger or heavier than a Nintendo Switch. You will have to carry it around!

Bus Etiquette

  • Follow all instructions and requests from the driver and staff.
  • Avoid distracting the driver while they are driving. This includes loud talking, music, or electronic devices.
  • Keep your belongings organized and out of the aisle.
  • Use headphones if listening to music or watching a movie.

  • Keep food and drinks in designated areas and dispose of trash properly.

    Students may bring blankets and pillows. Only ONE student is allowed under any blanket.

Money & Food

  • Do not bring large amounts of money.

  • Use a card or Apple/Google Pay whenever possible.

  • Suggested spending money would be $50-$100.

  • You will pay for breakfast at the Love’s Travel Center on the way to Chicago and dinner at the Love’s Travel Center on the way back to ACPA - please plan accordingly.

  • All meals while in Chicago are provided.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How early can I arrive at ACPA in the morning?
A: Please arrive at ACPA between 5:45-6:15am. Caregivers must remain with their student until they're checked in by a staff member.

Q: What if I usually ride the bus to school in the morning?
A: All students attending the trip must be dropped off by an adult. There will not be bus transportation at that time to ACPA.

Q: Can I bring a carry-on?
A: Students are permitted to bring a carry-on, however it must be the size of a book bag or smaller.

Q: How long is the bus ride?
A: The bus ride is roughly 7 hours with stops, however the trip may take slightly longer due to traffic.

Q: Can I use the restroom at ACPA in the morning?
A: Please use the restroom at home before coming to ACPA, as we will not have the capacity to supervise students needing to use the restroom in the building. There is a restroom on the bus, but please keep in mind that it's small and ventilation is limited.

Please email blackwell@artcollegeprep.org with any additional questions.

Visual Itinerary

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Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

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