Hello All,
 
Thank you for all the responses and suggestions -- both on- and off-line.  Several of you expressed interest in the responses; here's an unscientific synopsis:
 
Most institutions request a 1:10 ratio for school groups.  1:5 and 1:15 were tied as the second most popular ratios.  Ratios ranged from 1:5 to 1:25.  Seven of the responding museums reported changing the requested ratio under certain circumstances; i.e. more chaperones for a tour of pre-schoolers or children with special needs, and less chaperones for a tour of high school students. About 90% do not charge chaperones admission.
 
When presented with a tour with an inadequate number of chaperones, 70% of us grin and bear it.  30% reported refusing the group completely and/or limiting the nature of the tour because of insufficient supervision (not going into certain spaces/buildings or not doing certain activities).  
 
Thanks again; this was quite helpful.
 
Christy

Christine Dwyer
Stanly County Museum

 
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