There’s nothing quite like taking school board members on a field trip to witness the magic happening in our classrooms. It’s one thing to hear about all the groundbreaking programs we’re running, but it’s a whole other experience to see them in action. Especially when those “actions” include very lifelike healthcare simulations—think white coats, beeping monitors, and students practicing life-saving skills on eerily realistic mannequins.
Your Adventure Is About To Begin
So, picture this: we’re guiding a group of board members through our state-of-the-art medical simulation lab, where high school students are practicing hands-on care with everything from pediatrics to geriatrics. Our tour was a hit—board members were impressed as they observed the students taking vitals and managing “patient” symptoms with professionalism.
Then we rounded a corner, right into… labor and delivery. Cue the life-sized birthing mannequin. Suddenly, one of the students shouted, “The baby is crowning! I see the head!” And yes, that means exactly what you think it means.
Well, turns out one of our distinguished guests wasn’t exactly prepped for this miracle of life moment. Before we could even say “epidural,” he went down faster than a dropped stethoscope! In a sudden turn of events, our future nurses got an unexpected practical exam, springing into action to assist a real (and very fainted) person.
Nothing like turning a simulated birth scenario into a real medical episode, right? You Can’t Make It Up!
So, if you’re thinking of taking VIPs on a behind-the-scenes school tour, here are a few tips to help keep it fainting-free!
Key Takeaways: Impress, Not Stress
1. Prep Guests on What They’ll See
Whether it’s robotics, culinary arts, or the theater class in the middle of a sword-fighting lesson, give guests an idea of what’s on the agenda. No one wants to walk into a high-energy drumline practice unprepared.
2. Let Visitors Choose Their Own Adventure
Some people want hands-on experience, and others are happy to observe from a distance. Make sure guests know they’re welcome to step in close or hang back. This way, they can engage at their own comfort level without feeling put on the spot.
3. Build in Time for Questions, Breathers, and Bio Breaks
School tours can be a whirlwind. Give visitors a few chances to pause, ask questions, and actually take in what they’re seeing. A quick regroup can help keep everyone on the same page—and avoid overwhelming your guests. Don’t forget bathroom breaks along the way!
4. Have Staff and Students on Standby
Unexpected things happen on tours! Make sure teachers or students are around to jump in with context or help manage surprises. Visitors love a student tour guide, and they’re often the best at keeping things moving smoothly.
5. Keep Emergency Protocols Handy
Sure, tours are usually smooth sailing, but be ready for anything, from someone getting woozy to a surprise fire drill. A well-prepared tour is a memorable tour—for all the right reasons!
School tours are the perfect opportunity to show off your students’ hard work, talent, and creativity. With a bit of prep, your guests will leave not only impressed and inspired—but also fully upright and ready to sing your school’s praises!
Jane