FE. Travel by Student Groups

South Plains College recognizes and supports the benefit to the educational goals of the student population through organized student travel. Benefits include social development, organizational leadership, diversity enrichment, and a broadened educational perspective.

Travel Procedure

1. A South Plains College "Travel Request Form" should be completed at least seven (7) days in advance of departure.
2. The faculty/staff member who will be organizing and sponsoring the trip should complete the form.
3. The completed form is submitted to the Department Chair/Director for approval.
4. The approved form is submitted to the appropriate Vice President for final approval.
5. A duplicate form listing all students on the trip should be submitted to the Dean of Students.
6. The Dean of Student’s office will issue a "Faculty Notice Form" to each student.
7. The trip sponsor is responsible for the accuracy and distribution of all forms and notices.
8. Students are responsible to have all faculty members initial the "Faculty Notice Form" in order to provide validation that the college has approved the trip.
9. Students are responsible to make all arrangements with each faculty member for makeup work and to discuss each faculty member’s attendance policy.
10. College vehicles may be reserved with a duplicate copy of the form submitted to the Director of the Physical Plant.
11. Keys, mileage log, and safety/fatigue warning sheet will be available in the Physical Plant at the time of checkout.

Modes of Transportation

Students may at times travel in personal cars, college owned vehicles, or commercial modes of transportation.

Safety Issues

1. The use of seat belts is required at all times and in all modes of transportation while underway.
2. The manufacturer recommended passenger capacity and weight limits should not be exceeded at any time.
3. Operators of college owned vehicles must possess proper license, credentials and/or certifications for operating that particular mode of transportation.
4. Operators of college owned vehicles should be familiar with the signs of fatigue and take reasonable precautions to stay alert while operating a motor vehicle.

    Some tips for avoiding driving fatigue include:

      • Take frequent breaks at least every two hours.
      • Get a good night’s sleep prior to departure.
      • Share the driving responsibilities with a qualified and rested driver.
      • Pull over and stop when drowsiness occurs.
      • Plan to stay overnight when and where possible.
      • Avoid medications that make you sleepy.

    Warning signs include

      • Yawning.
      • Slowed reactions.
      • Stiffness and eyes feel heavy.
      • Day dreaming.
      • Trouble staying in your lane and on the road

     

Amendment: Revision
Authorized by: Executive Council
Nature of Revision: Content & Clarification
Date Issued: 11/01