School committee approves Beverly Middle School trip to Puerto Rico for April 2026

The Beverly School Committee voted unanimously Oct. 8 to approve a five‑day educational trip to Puerto Rico for Beverly Middle School students in April 2026.

The committee heard a presentation from Allison Nichols, a seventh‑grade Spanish teacher, who outlined past trips and a proposed itinerary that includes cultural, historical and science activities such as a visit to El Yunque rainforest, guided sightseeing, and a bioluminescent bay visit. Nichols said the district’s tour provider estimated a per‑student base cost of about $2,499, and the group is planning fundraisers and payment plans to help families cover expenses.

Superintendent Kenan McKenzie DeFranza said the district supports immersive educational travel but asked staff to focus on equity and ways to make the trip affordable for students who cannot pay the full cost. Committee members pressed for information on medical coverage and chaperone staffing; the superintendent said staff will pursue options for a medically trained chaperone and report back.

The committee discussed timing and logistics. Organizers proposed using the Wednesday through Sunday immediately before April vacation to lower costs and avoid the heavier travel demand during the vacation week. The motion to approve authorized district staff to finalize logistics and payment plans and to pursue fundraising and scholarship options to increase accessibility.

Committee members raised follow‑up items for staff: a plan for medical/health support for traveling students, a fundraising and scholarship strategy to assist families with financial need, and a review of provider quotes to ensure competitive pricing.

Superintendent DeFranza said he will work with trip leaders to provide updates on fundraising, chaperone qualifications and any scholarship offerings at upcoming meetings.