Okemos teachers propose summer 2026 Costa Rica trip for eighth-graders; board questions chaperones, costs and fundraising

Anne Onan, an Okemos Public Schools Spanish teacher, asked the board to approve an eighth-grade educational trip to Costa Rica planned for June 2026. The presentation described a WorldStrides itinerary that would include visits to Tortuguero, Arenal and Manuel Antonio; guided cultural and language activities; 3-credit optional coursework available through George Mason University; and lodging in three- to four‑star hotels.

Onan said about 60 students have shown interest, which would allow two groups of about 30 students each. She said the group currently has four confirmed adult chaperones if the board approves: co-leader Tricia Funk, and three staff members who volunteered to go — Elizabeth McNeil and Jose Gutierrez were named during the presentation in addition to Onan and Funk. Onan said families have been able to make interest deposits and that at least 30 students have already paid deposits to reserve places; she told trustees deposits would be refunded if the board did…