Board approves RHS student trip to the Dominican Republic amid fundraising plans

The Richmond Community Schools board voted to approve an overnight student trip for Richmond High School to the Dominican Republic in June 2027.

Member Stevens moved and Member Brands seconded the travel authorization (agenda item 5.06). Several board members, including a former Spanish teacher, praised the trip as an important opportunity to apply language study and cultural learning. A chaperone named Trey Ronnie was present in the audience and was thanked for organizing and leading the trip.

Board discussion noted that the district has processes to help students raise funds to afford trips and that chaperones and teacher volunteers play a key role. The board recorded the vote as 7 in favor and 2 opposed.

The trip authorization includes standard oversight and chaperone arrangements; the board did not discuss a specific per-student cost in the public record during the meeting. Board members asked staff to ensure equity and fundraising support for students who need financial assistance.