Board discusses renaming preschool to 'Little Falcons' and hears plans for international student trips

Dr. Jay asked the board to consider renaming McDowell Mountain Preschool to "Little Falcons Preschool" as consolidation proceeds, saying the name would prevent confusion with McDowell Mountain Elementary and help brand an early-childhood pipeline into K–5. "Once you come into our preschool, you're a falcon for life," he said while describing a possible nest-logo concept; the item was presented for discussion with a future vote expected.

Board members then heard a detailed proposal from staff and EF Tours organizers for a student trip to Scotland, England and France in March 2024. Presenters said the trip is highly organized, offers curricular connections for English and history classes and typically uses tax-credit donations and direct payments to cover student costs. Board questions focused on whether non-district students may participate (organizers said trips are limited to district students), chaperone rules, how many students have signed up (estimates based on past participation), the tax-credit mechanism (tax credits must come to the district and be attached to student accounts), and refund risk for tax-credit-funded payments if a trip is canceled.

Board members also asked about vaccine requirements (presenters said guidance can change and will be confirmed closer to travel), behavioral eligibility and how alternative itineraries are handled for students who cannot meet foreign-entry vaccine rules. The group also briefly discussed a separate German exchange program coordinated with the Sister Cities organization; German students will visit Fountain Hills in fall and reciprocal hosting will occur in 2024. The Germany exchange will appear as an action item at the next business meeting.