The Ashland School Committee on Wednesday approved two student travel proposals: a music and history tour of Germany and Austria for spring break 2027 and an overnight leadership retreat for the varsity boys basketball team in Cape Cod.

Music teachers Mary Namath and Mike Wertzel presented a custom education itinerary that would take students to Berlin, Munich, Salzburg and Vienna. The proposed schedule includes museum visits in Berlin, a Sound of Music tour and Mozart’s birthplace in Salzburg, a classical concert in Vienna, and a visit to Mauthausen concentration camp; presenters said the routing includes travel time buffers to allow students to process difficult sites.

Mary Namath (Music teacher, Ashland High School) said the trip is designed to pair history and music instruction: “We will give information during x blocks and while we journey together about Beethoven and Mozart” and teach students how to listen to and enjoy a classical concert. Presenters said the vendor, EF (Education First), offers an online fundraising tool for families and a global citizen scholarship program; they also described local fundraising and the district’s Helping Our Own fund as supports for students who cannot afford the full cost. Presenters emphasized the trip’s 18‑month planning window as a way to increase affordability for families.

Coach Mike Norman (Boys basketball coach) presented the Cape Cod leadership retreat proposal. Norman said the one‑night, out‑of‑state trip to Craigville Beach and Centerville will combine a basketball scrimmage with leadership activities drawn from the Jeff Janssen Leadership Training Manual. Norman told the committee the program focuses on team building and character development and that cost per player is targeted in the $50–$75 range; fundraising covers most of the trip, and coaches will ensure players for whom cost is prohibitive are assisted.

Committee members asked about equity and accessibility for both trips. Presenters described fundraising links, EF scholarship opportunities, local philanthropic support and staff efforts to advertise the trips in school X‑block sessions so interested students can register even if they are concerned about price.

Both travel proposals were approved by voice vote; presenters were encouraged to continue outreach to ensure broad participation and to provide families information about deposits and payment timelines.