Events for Teens

Archaeology Field Experience (3 day) - 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. 

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 $205 for 3 days.  Cancellation prior to June 7, 2013 will receive a full refund minus a $100 cancellation fee.  No refunds for cancellations after June 7, 2013. This event is funded in part by a grant from the La Crosse Community Foundation Richard W. Brown Family Fund.

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Archaeology Field School (5 day) - 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. 

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 $315 for 5 days.  Cancellation prior to June 7, 2013 will receive a full refund minus a $100 cancellation fee.  No refunds for cancellations after June 7, 2013. This event is funded in part by a grant from the La Crosse Community Foundation Richard W. Brown Family Fund.

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Youth Activity Information

Activity leaders are MVAC staff members. 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.

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 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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