Two years ago I brought 4 baby corns into my sixth grade class. At first I did the feeding and handling by myself. After about a month and constant demands from the children I sent home a permission slip in regards to handling and feeding. Before I knew it, every kid in my class and almost every sixth grader gave me a permission slip to handle the snakes. The year went quickly without any situations and complaints. Last year everyone knew me as the "snake guy". I didn't even use permission slips. During the year I picked up two more corns, 4 bearded dragons, 2 geckos, and a chamleon. We had a rain forest exhibit in my class and over 1000 people handled the snakes without a problem. I also gave lessons to most of the classes in my school and walked around with a snake at all times.

I never had problems with children not following rules or going into the tanks without permission. The snakes were easier to maintain in regards to temperature. I used an under the tank heater and heat lamp on a timer durung the winter. In the summer the class kept the temperature fine.

This year I switched to another school in my district and into 5th grade. I will send home a permission slip and go slowly. My new school isn't familar with animals.

In regards to permission, I never asked because I was able to relate it with the curriculum. I also brought animals that I wasn't concerned about into the classroom.

Lastly, I can say the whole reptile experience has been wonderful and I would never go to a school that didn't allow my babies. I also know a lot of children that don't have fears anymore and at least 10 families that have new pets as a result of my introduction.

Best of luck and if you have any questions you can email me at soccerdale1234@aol.com

Brian

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