RSU 73 approves New York City and Europe student trips; Spain noted for 2026

The RSU 73 School Board approved two student travel programs after presentations from a district trip organizer who outlined costs, chaperone plans and safety arrangements.

The board voted to approve a 24-hour New York City humanities trip that includes an evening performance of Wicked, a day for supervised exploration in small groups and a mandatory instructional session about the city and the show. The presenter said the trip seats about 55 per bus (roughly 47 students and seven chaperones), the charge is about $230 per student and 27 students already had deposits. "Students can raise money by selling poinsettias," the presenter said, noting families are responsible for meals and deposits secure spots.

The board also approved an 11-day Europe trip, scheduled April 12–22, that will visit Dublin, Edinburgh and London. The presenter said the group totals about 47 travelers (approximately 27 students and 20 adults), the estimated student cost was about $3,600 per student, and the district is using the EF/Taurus tour company to manage passports, emergency contacts and logistics. "EF Taurus takes control of a lot of that stuff and gives me a very detailed list of everything that I need," the presenter said, describing chaperone groupings and wristband/contact systems for quick communication.

Board members asked about passports and tour management; the presenter said she maintains copies of passports and medical information for emergencies and that board members traveling with students would wear identifying bracelets to connect with the tour guide. The presenter also described longstanding fundraising traditions and a recent large fundraiser that generated several thousand dollars to supplement trip expenses.

The board approved the motions by roll call. (Motion to approve the NYC trip was moved by Phoebe; the Europe trip motion was moved and seconded during the meeting.)

The presenter said Spain is planned as the 2026 international destination. The trips proceed with the expectation that students or families will pay deposits and balances and that fundraising will be used to reduce out-of-pocket costs for participating students.