Westerville parents raise concerns over EF Tours trip and data privacy violations

In a tense atmosphere at the Westerville City School District Board of Education meeting, parents voiced serious concerns regarding a recent field trip organized by EF Tours, a private travel company. The meeting, held on May 5, 2025, became a platform for parents to express their frustrations over what they described as misleading practices and potential violations of student privacy laws.

One parent, speaking on behalf of her family, recounted how they were drawn into the EF Tours trip under the impression that it would be a small group experience, only to discover that they would be traveling with 85 middle schoolers instead of the promised 15. This revelation came after they had already committed financially to the trip, leading to feelings of regret and disappointment. The parent highlighted that the sales tactics employed by EF Tours, which included cash bonuses for teachers who recruited students, raised ethical questions about the relationship between the school district and the company.

Further complicating matters, the parent raised alarms about potential violations of student data privacy laws, specifically citing unauthorized access to sensitive information, including the photographing of students' passports on unsecured devices. This, they argued, contravened federal regulations and the district's own policies regarding the handling of student information.

Another parent, who also identified as a public educator, echoed these concerns, emphasizing the need for transparency and ethical practices in school-sponsored programs. He expressed dismay at the lack of communication from the district regarding their inquiries and called for a thorough examination of the partnership with EF Tours. Both parents urged the board to advocate for families seeking refunds and to ensure that future trips are conducted with greater integrity and clarity.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that trust between the community and the school district was at stake. Parents left the meeting hoping for accountability and a commitment to uphold the values of public education, particularly in an era where transparency and ethical practices are more crucial than ever. The board's response to these concerns will likely shape the future of school-sponsored travel programs and the relationship between the district and private companies.