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School Committee Approves Duggan Academy Trip to Tokyo; Members Press for Fundraising and Safety Details
Summary
The Springfield School Committee voted to approve Duggan Academy's proposed out-of-country student trip to Tokyo (April 17'''April 25, 2027), allowing fundraising to begin. Committee members asked how students will be selected, whether families who cannot pay will be included, and what liability and chaperone-clearance measures will apply.
The Springfield School Committee on a unanimous vote approved Duggan Academy's request to pursue an out-of-country field trip to Tokyo, Japan, slated for April 17'''April 25, 2027, and authorized the school to begin fundraising and planning.
Superintendent Dr. Dunell told the committee the vote would allow fundraising to begin while the district and school provide additional information on safety and other requirements. Principal April Robinson described Duggan's previous experience with EF Educational Tours, noting a recent trip to Spain "was nothing short of transformational," and said students chose Japan as the next destination because "many have shared their dreams of experiencing the history, innovation, and traditions, firsthand." (Principal April Robinson.)
Committee members asked how students will be selected and who will cover costs. Robinson and Viviana Gomez said capacity is planned for 10'to'15 students but they expect fewer ("maybe 6") because of cost; there is no school-funded scholarship pool, and participation is driven by families' ability to pay and by student fundraising using EF Tours'fundraising links. As Principal Robinson put it, selection will not be based on grades but on family willingness and ability to pay; "we will be coaching the students on budgeting" and fundraising strategies. (Principal April Robinson; Viviana Gomez.)
Legal and safety questions drew a series of clarifications. Attorney Saint Laurent said the district uses standard permission slips with liability waivers and that the tour operator provides refunds, global-protection coverage and medical insurance for participants; district counsel noted that the Spain trip had been approved previously and that the tour company typically performs background checks for adult participants. Committee members also discussed chaperone clearance. District staff said adults named as chaperones will need required clearances, and that parents who sign up to travel with students are screened by the tour company.
The committee did not direct staff to withhold approval pending additional documentation; rather, members approved the trip request to allow the school to present details publicly and begin the fundraising process. Vice Chair Ron Veil moved the motion and it was seconded; the roll call vote was recorded as all members voting yes. (Roll-call record.)
The school and district said they will return with additional materials to address outstanding items, including a finalized itinerary, chaperone clearance status and detailed insurance/liability information. Principal Robinson emphasized the educational goals of the trip and said the school plans to incorporate budgeting and financial-literacy instruction into preparations.
