No, there is no need for nonstandard vaccinations.

In the event a participant were to contract COVID-19, SOC and our host site arrange for isolation quarters, medical assistance, and open communication and shared decision making with family back home.

SOC leaves the decision to require up-to-date COVID-19 vaccination up to each group leader/school. Prior to travel, SOC requires all participants to test negative on a 3rd-party-proctored COVID-19 antigen test administered 24-72 hours before travel. In addition, SOC provides all participants with N95 masks that they must use during airline and van/bus transportation on travel days to and from our host site in Costa Rica.

The primary host site eating, and classroom areas have at least one open wall and cross ventilation to the outside. The sleeping quarters are screened (windows in sleeping quarters do not have glass, a feature designed to ensure all are listening to the natural rainforest sounds!).

You will fill in and sign a medical form and waiver that requires disclosure of any medical conditions your child is being treated for or requires special emergency procedures, e.g. allergies, diabetes, mental health, or seizure issue.

We have five pre-trip classes and usually hold them every 3-4 weeks.

You can register directly. If you have questions before being ready to register, you can message us and we can answer them by email or phone.

Part of the immersion experience is to unplug from minute by minute cell phone connectedness; therefore, students communicate with parents through a daily blog that two different students author each day. We do this to encourage student group bonding during down-time with old-fashioned games (cards, spot-it, set, boggle - are good, easy to bring group game options) and to avoid interruptions that disrupt the program.

Additionally, the trip chaperones create a WhatsApp chat group for the parents and will upload photos, videos, and updates throughout the day.

It is best to share potentially upsetting news with a teacher/chaperone first, so they can advise when to deliver the news. News is best delivered in an appropriate and private moment and/or arrange for a private call home.

SOC on-site coordinators and teacher chaperones always have access to WIFI locations for internet calling services, use walkie talkies, and use email when cell service is poor. In addition, our hosts have 24/7 phone service for emergency situations.