CHECKWORLD EXPEDITION GUIDELINES
As an educational tourism organization, CheckWorld is committed to fostering global awareness and providing safe, culturally responsible expedition programs. These policies ensure the safety of participants, compliance with local customs and traditions, community standards for all programs, and a rewarding journey for every participant. By joining an expedition, all participants agree to comply with these terms.
DEFINITIONS
* CheckWorld: Refers to all CheckWorld personnel responsible for the direct coordination, supervision, and execution of the Program, including Expedition Navigators.
* Programs: All expedition programs offered by CheckWorld.
* Participants: Refers to the participating Organization (school, kid's club, or youth organization), their participating Questers, and convoying Chaperones.
1. TERMS AND CONDITIONS
A. PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY AND LOGISTICS
* Program Adherence: Participants must adhere to the maximum group count specified on their Expedition Permit.
* Accessibility: CheckWorld programs are currently structured for Questers who are able to fully engage in the itinerary without requiring specialized care or dedicated accessibility facilities.
B. SAFETY AND OBLIGATION
* Safety Commitment: CheckWorld prioritizes the safety and well-being of all participants, ensuring clear instructions and supervision are provided throughout any expedition program.
* Coordination: Participants are expected to remain coordinated and attentive to Expedition Navigators at all times during travel and exploration.
C. MEDIA AND CHANGES
* Promotional Consent: CheckWorld reserves the right to use images, videos, and feedback from the expedition program for promotional purposes. Parents/guardians have an option to decline or limit photo consent during the official registration.
* Program Modifications: CheckWorld reserves the right to modify or adjust a program activity without notice due to unforeseen circumstances, as it prioritizes the well-being and safety of all participants.
2. RULES & RESPONSIBILITIES
A. QUESTERS (Youth Participants)
* Group Adherence: Questers must be advised to stay with the expedition group at all times and are always to use the buddy system.
* Respect & Responsibility: Questers must treat fellow participants, Expedition Navigators, and the communities visited with respect.
* Follow Directions: Questers must adhere to the directions of Expedition Navigators, their chaperones, and cultural guides at all times.
* Engagement: Questers must actively participate in the expedition to maximize their cultural experience.
* Disruptive Behavior: Questers must avoid disruptive actions.
* Health & Well-being: Questers must inform their chaperones immediately of any medical concerns. They are responsible for carrying the necessary medication they need and staying hydrated.
* Screen Time: Questers should stay present in the moment and avoid overuse of electronic devices during activities.
* Shared Spaces: Questers must maintain the order and cleanliness of rooms and tour buses.
* Policy Adherence: Questers must follow the safety policies set by Expedition Navigators.
* Personal Belongings: Questers are responsible for keeping track of their items. CheckWorld is not responsible for lost or stolen belongings.
B. CONVOYING CHAPERONES
* Supervision: Convoying chaperones must maintain a watchful presence over their Questers and ensure they follow all safety guidelines.
* Emergency Preparedness: Convoying chaperones must be familiar with emergency protocols and have essential Quester medical information accessible.
* Facilitation: Convoying chaperones should encourage and support their Questers’ engagement with the cultural experiences.
* Collaboration: Convoying chaperones must work closely with CheckWorld to ensure a seamless and rewarding experience for their Questers.
C. PARTICIPATING ORGANIZATION MANAGEMENT
* Trip Logistics: Administrators of participating organizations must coordinate with CheckWorld to confirm the program schedule.
* Contact: Administrators of participating organizations must ensure updated contact details (emails, phone numbers) are provided during registration.
* Registration and Consent: Administrators of participating organizations must ensure proper documentation of their Convoying chaperones and Questers, including their parents'/guardians' consent form.
D. PARENTS AND GUARDIANS
* Medical Disclosure and Documentation: Parents/guardians must provide accurate and comprehensive medical details of their Quester, including all known allergies and pre-existing conditions. For international programs, this also requires ensuring the Quester possesses any necessary prescriptions, signed medical consent forms, and proof of required vaccinations for the destination.
* Travel Documentation: For all international expeditions, parents/guardians are responsible for ensuring their Quester holds a valid passport, any required visas, and all other necessary travel documentation.
* Packing and Equipment: Parents/guardians must ensure their Quester is equipped with appropriate clothing, supplies, and any required medications as detailed in the official Packing Guidelines.
3. CONDUCT AND SECURITY POLICIES
A. REQUIRED CONDUCT
* Punctuality: Participants must arrive promptly on the designated departure day.
* Appropriate Dress: Participants must adhere to the program's dress code and ensure their attire is suitable for the destination's climate, cultural norms, and planned activities.
* CheckWorld Gear: When provided, participants must always wear CheckWorld's branded clothing and identification for security and easy group recognition.
* Footwear: Participants must wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking (sneakers are recommended).
* Respect Local Laws: Participants must strictly adhere to the laws and cultural customs of the countries and communities visited.
* Remain with Group: Participants must always remain with the expedition group.
* Electronic Use: Participants must use phones and cameras responsibly. Electronic devices must not disrupt the group or distract from learning experiences.
* Social Media: Participants must respect the privacy of others and must not post photos or videos of fellow participants or community members without permission.
B. PROHIBITED CONDUCT
The following activities are strictly prohibited for all participants:
* Bullying, harassment, discrimination, disruptive behavior, or inappropriate actions.
* Possession or use of alcohol, drugs, or smoking materials.
* Theft or Vandalism (intentional damage to property).
* Any form of disrespectful behavior toward others.
C. DISCIPLINARY MEASURES
Violation of policies outlined in Section B will result in the following actions toward the offender.
* Immediate Dismissal: The offender and their participating group will be immediately dismissed from the expedition program.
* Future Disqualification: Violation will lead to disqualification of the offender and their group from all future CheckWorld programs.
* Property Compensation: Compensation for intentional or accidental damage to property must be provided by the responsible party's organization.