The day/night before the program is scheduled to start, Cliff and Pat spend over three hours transforming the school's gymnasium into a colorful, information-packed "New York State". Large panels of original artwork and informative posters create interesting settings for over twenty different activity/information centers.
Usually, the students attend the program according to their normal Physical Education class schedule. Depending on the size of the school, “Welcome to New York!” remains in a school for up to 5 days until each class has had the opportunity to visit "New York State" two times. The physical education teachers also love this program, as it uses so many skills and activities that support their physical education curriculum. It is important to note that both the activities and information provided are modified to meet the needs of different age levels, making the program appropriate, fun, and effective for all grades involved.
When students arrive, they are given the tour of “New York State” with age appropriate information included. Activities are demonstrated and program rules are carefully reviewed. What follows is a time of tremendous fun, activity, and learning. New York State related music fills the gym as the "tourists" (students) are sent out to experience New York and be information-seekers. There are also several fun Q&A sessions integrated into the activity sessions, and some light-hearted competitions are available for those students who desire to participate.
After the students' last visit, each teacher is given a packet of grade appropriate, follow-up activity sheets to use at their discretion.