The Long Walk

If you are participating, READ this!  If not, ignore.

• I need permissions slips signed by your parents as soon as you can get them to me but obviously no later than the day before the walk.
• There will be a homework/teacher signature sheet coming which you will also need filled out and returned by the day before the walk.
• If you want a t-shirt, see Ms. Southall with $10 ASAP--first come, first served
• Below are the FAQ from Ms. Southall/Mr. Barnes/Ms. Brenner.  By the way, THEY will be your escorts/question-answerers/helpers on the day of the walk.  I will still be at school with all of the rest of my students.  I will be asking for your cell phone number in class once you commit so they can contact you in case of emergency.

The Long Walk – FAQ

1.   Is there a winner and if so, what is the prize?  All official finishers will receive a gift card.  The Winner will also receive the Golden Shoe!

2.     What do we eat and/or can we bring food?  Yes, you can bring food.  Lunch is on your own, you do need to carry a water bottle and a cell phone.  Eat things that are easily digestible such as fruits and energy bars.

3.     Will there be water provided at different spots?  Water will be provided at Banner State Park both directions, and in Carlisle.

4.     What shoes/clothing do we wear?  Tennis shoes, comfortable walking shoes with good socks.  Avoid flip-flops, sandals, cowboy boots, Uggs, etc., you will regret it!

5.     Are backpacks, bags, etc., allowed?  Yes, including camel backs or hydration systems.  Don’t overdo it, you don’t want to be carrying ridiculous amounts of excess weight.

6.     Can we listen to music, watch videos, etc.?  Music seems completely appropriate, videos seem distracting and unnecessary.  Of course you can use your phone to tweet, text, etc.

7.     What if the weather is bad?  Keep picking them up and laying them down J.  Staff will provide you helpful hints the day before if the weather looks bad (rain, heat, snow!?).

8.     Can we use the bathroom on the trail like the book?  Plan accordingly to use bathrooms at Banner State Park or Carlisle.

9.     What is the pace?  Is there a specific time limit and/or where are the cutoff points?  The cutoff pace is approximately 3 mph.  All walkers not reaching Banner by 10:15 going to Carlisle, or by 2:00 returning from Carlisle will be transported back to school.

10.  If we can’t finish how do we get a ride back?  All students who drop out of the walk must sign out with a bus driver.  You may only drop out at Banner (either direction) or Carlisle.  In the case of an emergency we have two Gators capable of transporting students.

11.  If we finish early do we have to go back to class?  Students who walk at least as far as Carlisle will not be required to resume their regular schedules upon returning to school.

12.  Do we get deducted points if we don’t finish?  No, provided a legitimate attempt is made.

13.  Can we run/walk?  Yes, but for safety concerns, it’s advisable to stay within striking range of support vehicles. 

14.  Can we be medically excused before/during the Long Walk?  Dropping from the walk after March 8^th with a legitimate school excused emergency approved through the attendance office will require students to complete a project due at 7:55 on March 25^th (for 3^rd quarter grading purposes).

 15.  If we don’t walk, what do we do for the makeup?  Teachers have a list of Project Ideas that are to be completed by March 11^th (this may require reading ahead).

16.  What about breaks?  Can we?  Do we have to? Beware of cutoff times, breaks are up to you.  All students must check in at Carlisle.

17.  How do teachers keep track of attendance?  Start list, Carlisle check point, bus lists.

18.  Do I have to go to practice after the walk?  All coaches have been contacted and have been encouraged to give you the practice off.