Swampscott High School teachers and students presented the high‑school French program and an ongoing student exchange with Lyon, France, and the School Committee gave provisional approval for a follow‑up trip.

“We offer ACP classes, honors, and AP classes,” French teacher James Barrett said during a student‑led presentation describing the program’s thematic approach and emphasis on speaking, listening, reading and writing. Barrett and students highlighted field trips, AP coursework and extracurricular activities such as a French club and an annual “Mani Musicale” music event.

Barrett said Swampscott currently hosts 16 exchange students from Lyon and outlined a proposed April trip to return the visit next year. The planned itinerary would depart Boston the evening of April 15, spend several days in Paris and then travel by high‑speed train (TGV) to Lyon for a week of school visits with host families; Barrett said the plan would take 15 students with two chaperones.

The committee discussed timing and administrative details. Committee members asked whether a provisional decision could allow Barrett to secure deadlines for flights and program deposits; the committee agreed to a provisional vote so the teacher could proceed with time‑sensitive arrangements. “Because I know that you’re time sensitive,” a committee member said as the Board moved to a provisional green light.

A School Committee member made the motion to provisionally approve the trip, another seconded it, and the chair called the voice vote; members responded “Aye,” and the chair announced the motion passed unanimously. The committee scheduled a formal vote for its June 12 meeting. Barrett also told the committee there is an organizational deadline of June 18 for parts of the trip’s paperwork.

Students who spoke about the program emphasized immersive classroom practices, a Quebec trip and a French speaking contest (Concours Richelet/Hichelieu) where Swampscott students have competed successfully. Several committee members praised the program’s continuity and student engagement.

Ending: The committee’s provisional approval lets staff begin nonbinding planning and deposits; the district will record a formal vote at its June 12 meeting.