[vic burg]

I am a student but, I hope this can help. We, Team 108, shared a bus ride up to the Palmetto Regional with Team 1251 both ways. Us students pretty much just completely had fun. A lot of people slept, since it was 13 hours on the way up, and it was basically, an all day thing. And yes, gameboys, iPods, CD Players and the such were technically an essential. I really don't think that same gender seating is necessary because normally, the students are too bored to be thinking of doing anything. Even if anyone did/does, they will hear about it from the other students and teachers/coaches/mentors since the bus is only so big and whatever happens, virtually everyone knows about. Robotics students tend to have high maturity levels so, Andrew, you really needn't worry much. Yes, spread out the chaperone's and you should be set. But, find out, before the trip is 3 hours into it, if the VHS/DVD player works. Otherwise, things may be a bit crazy. (Ours didn't and we all complained but, we got over it, and even bought the supplies to fix it. ) Having gone on multiple school trips via bus, whether only a few or many hours, on the way back, if you are driving overnight, or if either way is overnight, you can basically be guaranteed that all students at any given point (maybe 1 or 2 won't), will be asleep. Hope you have a good, fun, and safe trip!!!!