Board approves 9‑day Costa Rica field trip for high school English/media arts; student cost about $4,100

The board reviewed and approved an out-of-state, overnight field trip proposal for high school English/media arts students to travel to Costa Rica during the February 2027 school vacation. Teacher Tiff Shaw presented the itinerary—Tortuguero National Park, zipline and rafting activities, Arenal, kayaking, snorkeling and other educational and cultural stops—and outlined logistics and safety support provided by an established tour company.

"The quote for us right now would be, 4,100 for students and 5,000 for adults," Shaw said, describing the per‑participant price and the chaperone arrangement (one free chaperone per six paying students). The board moved and the motion carried; the transcript records the vote as carried.

Shaw said she will hold a parent and student information night and offer a $200 discount to families who attend that session and sign up; she also said fundraisers will be used to help some students. The board confirmed the trip is open to all high‑school students and approved the out‑of‑state overnight travel.