Board members flag DCPS chaperone changes after reported trip cancellations

During the March 1 working session, board members raised concerns from parents and school communities that District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) has changed its field‑trip chaperone practice, requiring DCPS staff rather than parent chaperones for some overnight trips.

Chair (speaker 2) relayed constituent reports that several school trips were disrupted; members said one debate team trip and another band trip were affected. The chair said staff will follow up with DCPS to confirm whether this represents an official policy change or a change in implementation or enforcement.

Members noted that some schools still allow parent chaperones and that the reports might reflect localized interpretation differences. The board asked staff to gather details about which trips were canceled, whether the change applies broadly (overnight trips only) and the precise DCPS guidance, then report back to the board for possible follow‑up or advocacy.

The chair characterized the immediate impact as operational disruption for schools and families and said the board will investigate and report findings at a future meeting.