Events for Teens

Archaeology Field Experience - grades 9-12

This multi-day event includes both field and lab experiences and is a well rounded opportunity for those who want to learn about the process of archaeology. Explore what it is like to participate in an actual archaeological excavation, by working alongside professional archaeologists in the field. Participate in small-scale excavations (test units) and survey work. Lab work may include washing ceramics, stone tools, and other remains, and sorting them into basic categories. An experimental archaeology component of the event may explore making stone tools and pottery. Optional lab hours and local field trips will be available after regular field school hours. No previous experience is necessary. The location of this year’s field school is yet to be determined.

This experience is open to high school students through adults.  Fee includes a one year MVAC membership.  Supervised dorm facilities are available for high school students at an additional cost of $155 for 3 days.  Adults (over 18 years of age) may make their own reservations for dorms or camping in the area.  Cancellation prior to June 30, 2008 will receive a full refund minus a $60 cancellation fee.  No refunds for cancellations after June 30, 2008.

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Archaeology Field School - grades 9-12

This multi-day event includes both field and lab experiences and is a well rounded opportunity for those who want to learn about the process of archaeology. Explore what it is like to participate in an actual archaeological excavation, by working alongside professional archaeologists in the field. Participate in small-scale excavations (test units) and survey work. Lab work may include washing ceramics, stone tools, and other remains, and sorting them into basic categories. An experimental archaeology component of the event may explore making stone tools and pottery. Optional lab hours and local field trips will be available after regular field school hours. No previous experience is necessary. The location of this year’s field school is yet to be determined.

This experience is open to high school students through adults.  Fee includes a one year MVAC membership.  Supervised dorm facilities are available for high school students at an additional cost of $255 for 5 days.  Adults (over 18 years of age) may make their own reservations for dorms or camping in the area.  Cancellation prior to June 30, 2008 will receive a full refund minus a $60 cancellation fee.  No refunds for cancellations after June 30, 2008.

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Youth Activity Information

Activity leaders are MVAC staff members who are also certified Wisconsin teachers. Activities are geared to specific age groups. Participates can enroll in one or more of the activities.

Participants should wear comfortable clothing and walking/hiking shoes. Insect repellent and sun screen is recommended for camps with outdoor field trips. Participants should bring a snack and lunch (with beverage) to all activities.

Parents/guardians of youth required by WI law to use booster seats must bring a booster seat to the start of class or the child will not be allowed to participate in the class (registration fee will not be refunded).

Enrollment is limited to 13-25 participants per activity. The Field School and Field Experience registration deadlines are one month in advance.  All other activity deadlines are two weeks before the event.  Early registration is recommended.  Full payment (including travel/supply fees) is required with the completed registration form.  If activities are cancelled in the event of low enrollment, fees will be reimbursed.  See specific classes for individual cancellation policy.

Youth participants are encouraged to have their own health insurance as limited accident insurance is provided by the university.  The University of Wisconsin - La Crosse or Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center are not liable for medical costs incurred that are not covered by this insurance policy.

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Financial Assistance

Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center may be able to offer several students financial assistance to attend our youth programs.   Scholarships will be awarded based on interest in archaeology, financial need and grade point average.  For information about receiving youth financial assistance call 608-785-8454 or e-mail Jean.  

Additional funds are still needed to provide financial assistance to youth participating in this year's youth activities.  Call 608-785-6473 or e-mail Bonnie if you would like to help.  

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