Board approves Spanish-department international trip to Costa Rica; cost about $4,000 per student

The Faribault school board approved a proposed eight-day, Spanish-language immersion trip to Costa Rica in 2026 during its April 22 business meeting.

Spanish teachers Caitlin Beaupre and Barb Sorum described the program — organized with EF Travel — as a language-immersion experience combining daily language lessons tied to topics such as sustainability, plus cultural activities and excursions. "The title of the program is language immersion through Costa Rica," Beaupre said. The group would stay in hotels (no homestays) and include activities such as zip-lining and kayaking.

Presenters estimated the current cost at a little over $4,000 per student; organizers said fundraising and departmental scholarships will be offered and EF provides some scholarship opportunities. Chaperone planning follows district practice of one adult for every six students; the presenters said at least one teacher would attend and possibly both depending on enrollment.

Administrators noted an insurance implication: workers' compensation and liability coverage for district employees does not extend outside the U.S., so the district would need to purchase additional coverage for any employee chaperones traveling abroad. The presenters said they do not yet have a specific cost for that additional insurance but would work with district staff to clarify.

The board moved and approved the field trip request; the vote was taken by voice and passed.