School committee approves student trips to Paris, Panama and Washington D.C.

The Easton Public Schools School Committee voted Dec. 4 to approve three student foreign-travel proposals covering Paris, Panama and an overnight trip to Washington, D.C., and Maryland.

World-language chair Maria Palma introduced a French-department cultural and historical trip to Paris planned for April 2027 for French 4–5 students. French teacher Patrick Sharkey, the proposed lead chaperone, described the trip as a repeat of a successful April 2025 Explorica program and said the cost is roughly $4,100 per student with payment-plan options. The committee discussed chaperone ratios, past participation (about 10 students last time) and fundraising/financial-aid options; Palma and Sharkey said families typically cover costs through payment plans and fundraising.

Spanish teacher Megan Sharkey presented a proposed February 2027 trip to Panama (itinerary includes Panama City and Chitré) using EF Education First; cost was described in the same range and the committee emphasized the trip’s cultural and educational programming. Both the Paris and Panama motions were moved, seconded and approved unanimously.

Separately, committee members reviewed an annual four‑day CADCA leadership conference trip to Washington D.C./Maryland supported by Eastern Wings of Hope and the drug‑free communities grant. Victoria Hunt and Chelsea described the selection process (applications and interviews) and budgeted capacity for up to 10 students (expecting 5–8); the district and partner fund all student costs. The committee moved and approved the overnight trip unanimously.

Each proposal included arrangements for chaperones, vendor oversight (Explorica/EF) and options for family-funded payment plans. Committee members thanked staff for organizing the trips and noted the educational value and workload involved in planning out-of-state and international travel.