Board reviews school activity‑trip rules; clarifies sponsor responsibilities and bus supervision

District administrators reviewed proposed language in the school activity‑trip policy, citing alignment with NMAC 6.41.4 and existing transportation policy. Cindy Theodore summarized the policy sections that define local, extended and unique trips, the superintendent’s approval process, required itineraries and budget disclosures, parent permission and the supervision standard for overnight or extended trips. Board members asked for clarification about who is the responsible sponsor and who must remain on the bus. Theodore and other staff said the sponsor (teacher, coach or principal‑designated employee) is responsible for supervision and that the driver is not to serve as a chaperone. The policy language requires at least one school employee in addition to the driver on each bus while students are present and sets an athletic/school‑activity supervision guideline of one adult per 10 students for trips other than intra‑school events. Board members requested assurance that sponsors sign trip packets and that chaperones satisfy background checks; staff confirmed that post‑trip evaluations and trip tickets are used and that volunteers must complete background clearance and be badged before serving as chaperones. No formal policy vote was taken; staff will incorporate the clarified language into the finalized administrative procedure and continue routine sponsor training.