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Galena board approves 2028 British Isles tour for juniors and seniors

Galena School Board · December 17, 2025
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Summary

The Galena School Board unanimously approved a proposed 10‑day EF Tours trip to the British Isles for juniors and seniors in 2028, with estimated costs of $4,800 per student and $5,600 per adult and options for payment plans and scholarships.

The Galena School Board on Tuesday approved a proposed EF Tours trip for current juniors and seniors that would visit Dublin, Belfast, Edinburgh and London in 2028.

Teachers and chaperones presented the plan as a 10‑day educational trip that would give students hands‑on exposure to the history and culture discussed in social studies classes. The itinerary described stops at Dublin, the Giant’s Causeway near Belfast, Edinburgh Castle and central London landmarks such as Piccadilly Circus and the changing of the guard. "We want them to experience cultural awareness that we can't get in the classroom," a presenter said during the board meeting.

Officials said the company will provide a tour director who meets the group in the airport and accompanies students throughout the trip. The package includes airfare, accommodations, a tour expert, museum tickets and most meals; students would pay for one meal per touring day plus personal souvenirs. The board heard the cost would be about $4,800 per student and $5,600 per adult; an optional package of three undergraduate credits from Southern New Hampshire University would add $550 for those who choose it. Presenters said EF Tours offers payment plans and early‑bird scholarships to reduce costs for families.

Board members discussed logistics, including minimum group size, the ratio of staff to students (presenters said the plan calls for six students per adult), and fundraising and scholarship options to improve affordability. One presenter noted the district had run a similar domestic Washington, D.C., trip and expected many families to use payment plans and early‑signup discounts.

After questions from members about timing and student recruitment, Board member John moved to approve the 2028 GHS "Capitals of the British Isles" tour as presented; the motion was seconded and passed unanimously. The teacher presenters said they will host a parent meeting by videoconference and begin sign‑ups in May, allowing families time to enroll and use the payment plan.