Frequently Asked Questions

The field trip costs $700 per group of 30 students.

The day lasts between 3.5 and 4 hours, depending on each school’s transportation needs.

• 8:55 – 9:00 a.m.
  Buses arrive at the Challenger Learning Center.
  One of our staff members will meet you on the bus for directions.
• 9:00 a.m.
  Class #1 walks to the briefing room to begin the Expedition Mars Space Simulation
  Class #2 walks to the STEM lab for ancillary activities
• 10:30 – 10:55 a.m.
  Class #2 eats lunch
• 10:55 a.m. – 12:50 p.m.
  Class #2 in the briefing room to begin the Expedition Mars Space Simulation
• 10:55 – 11:20 a.m.
  Class #1 eats lunch
• 11:20 a.m. – 12:50 p.m.
  Class #1 in the STEM lab for ancillary activities
• 1:00 p.m.
  Schools depart from the center

We can serve 2 groups each day. Each group can have a maximum of 30 students, so a total of 60 students per day.

We can flex times by shortening lunch and moving transition times along. We also have methods to shorten the activities that will still ensure a rigorous fun-filled day for your students.

There is a Crew Manifest included in the Teacher Resources section on each mission page.

All materials for teachers are included in the Teacher Resources section of the mission pages.

At this time, we do not provide off-site programs.

Parent chaperones are not required. If you choose to bring them, please bring no more than 2 parents per group of 30 students.

There is no limit to the number of school staff for each group.

At this time we do not offer souvenirs or items for purchase.

Students and teachers bring sack lunches. We have a refrigerator available.

You need to bring two things:

1. Completed crew manifests for each group
    
2. Final payment if you have not already sent it. We accept checks, and MasterCard and Visa payments made via our online portal.
   D200 Online Payment System

You can email challenger@wcusd200.org or call (815) 338-7722. Book as early as possible as our space is limited (there is an astronomy joke there somewhere!).

Our Challenger Learning Center Commanders and Flight Directors are all experienced educators who are committed to STEM education.

Teacher training sessions are not required but these sessions do provide valuable insights into our program and facility. A tour and exploration of our missions will enhance your field trip experience.

Teacher training is available to any teacher who plans to attend the Challenger Learning Center with their students. If you have not attended the Challenger before, we strongly encourage this training. Please plan to schedule a session at least two weeks prior to your field trip date(s). The session will include an overview of the Challenger program and what to expect during your time with us. Training is included in your registration fee.

To schedule a virtual or in person meeting, please email challenger@wcusd200.org or call (815) 338-7722.

We are not open on the weekends or weekdays to the general public. Our Family Science Nights, summer camps and field trips are all by reservation only.

Our only opportunities for the public to visit are during our Family Science Nights.

They are scheduled throughout each school year. When available, details and registration information will be posted on our Community & Families page.

Communities & Families

In order to focus on our STEM mission, we do not host birthday parties.

We are always looking for great volunteers!  Email us at challenger@wcusd200.org for information.

We do not have merit badge programs.

All scout events are pre-scheduled with local councils. Contact Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois, Blackhawk Council or your local Scouting organization to find out if they are planning a Challenger Learning Center program.

Yes, and many do. The price is the same as for families: $20/person and children must be supervised by adults/ leaders using the ratios set by your organization.