AGRI-ENVIRONMENTAL WILDERNESS EXPEDITION (AEWE) 2016
VOLUNTEER LEADER APPLICATION
We encourage leaders to apply from all disciplines including science, communication,
mathematics, history and art.
(Expanding science/math, journaling, creative writing,
photography and fine art experiences are components of the expedition).
WHO CAN APPLY?
Adults of all ranges of hiking experience interested in
exploring the natural environment with students 8th – 12th grade.
EXPEDITION DETAILS
Big Horn Mountains – Cloud Peak
July 9 - 17, 2016
DESCRIPTION
Cloud Peak Wilderness – Big Horn Mountains - WY
Cloud Peak wilderness is long recognized as having
some of the most majestic alpine scenery in America.
This region preserves many sharp summits and
towering sheer rock faces standing above glaciercarved, U-shaped valleys.
Named for the tallest
mountain in the Bighorn National Forest - Cloud Peak at
13,167 feet - the area is blanketed in snow for a large
part of the year, and most of the higher ground doesn't
show bare ground until July. Several hundred beautiful
lakes cover the landscape and drain into miles of
streams.
No region in Wyoming is provided with a
more diverse and beautiful landscape. Join us for this
exciting adventure in 2016.
Application Deadline: January 21, 2016
Mail or drop off to
Cristy Nagle, Talent Development Program
Branch Intermediate School District  370 Morse Street  Coldwater, MI 49036
2015-16 Contact Persons:
Sharon DeMeester – BISD/Coldwater
Carrie Preston/Alison Harwell –BACC
Ron Ford – BISD/Coldwater
Jeff Gallup/Sang Park – Bronson HS
Mark DeMeester – Coldwater (CHS)
Walt Mills – The Kellogg Company
Jim Crabbs – Quincy High School
Leaders will pay a trip cost fee of $200
LEADERS MUST ATTEND LEADER/STUDENT/PARENT ORIENTATION MEETING
FEBRUARY 8, 2016 – 5:30 PM in the BACC mall, as well as mandatory student
training sessions.
Agri-Environmental Wilderness Expedition (AEWE) Leader Guidelines
Education through expedition is a stimulating way for students to experience
meaningful real life learning situations encountered in wilderness settings.
The goal is to expose young people to the opportunities and wonder of being
outside. This non-profit educational opportunity is provided by the AgriEnvironmental Wilderness Expedition (AEWE) program to Branch County
students in 8th – 12th grades.
There are two leaders, one male and one female for each group of 5-7 students
when appropriate. Each group leader will be paired with one experienced
AEWE leader.
Group Leaders will be responsible for:\

attending & assisting with students during training sessions

assisting Experienced Leader with the management of gear

assisting Experienced Leader with student journals and activities

supervising students in designated groups and monitoring safety during the experience
including the travel portion of the trip

monitoring daily hiking activities such as cooking, campsite selection, camp set up and
tear down and water purification

working to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience by all the participants
Experienced AEWE Leaders are additionally responsible for:

leading student and leader training sessions

selecting gear, monitoring its condition and assisting in the inventory and the storage of
equipment upon return.

coordinating emergency safety plans prior to departure

monitoring physical and mental condition of assigned hiking team

navigating assigned hiking team on designated trails

facilitating with group leader student journals and activities

making judgment calls during hiking or travel (i.e., trail difficulty or unsafe conditions)

implementing first aid action and carrying student medical release forms
2016
Agri-Environmental Wilderness Expedition (AEWE) Leader
Application
Name
Phone
_________________________
Address
Email
__________________________
City
District
____________________________
Bronson
Other (describe)
Prior Participation in AEWE:
1.
State
Zip
Coldwater
Quincy
Pansophia
I am a school district employee (check, if yes)
No
Yes,
number of times
What interests you in participating as a leader in the AEWE?
2.
Please describe any previous experience you may have had in
backpacking, hiking or camping.
3.
Describe any first aid or CPR training you have had.
____
4.
Describe any experience you have with navigation, orienteering and
using a compass or GPS meter.
5.
Describe your physical and mental readiness level to lead an AEWE
group. AEWE requires participants to carry up to 30 pound backpacks
and navigate and hike distances on various terrains.
6.
Describe strengths you would bring as a leader to an AEWE
group.
7.
In what talent and interest areas would you be able to assist?
(Science background? Specialty? Green? Hobby—Photography, wildlife, GPS, or
other study area to leading a group of students?)
__________________________________
Applicant Signature
Please sign, date and return completed application to:
By: January 21, 2016
_________________________________
Date
Cristy Nagle, Talent Development Program
Branch Intermediate School District
370 Morse Street
Coldwater, MI 49036
Applications will be screened and selections made after January 21, 2016
You will be notified of your status by the end of January.