Rising bus costs force Radnor to propose phased increase for Camp Canadensis trip

Radnor Township School District officials told the curriculum committee that rising transportation costs—driven by driver shortages and higher fuel prices—produced a transportation shortfall for the annual fifth-grade Camp Canadensis trip of roughly $21,500 last year (up from about $12,000 in 2022–23).

The district currently contributes an estimated $30,000 to the trip for staff supplemental pay, a rental truck and lodging for staff; families pay registration, overnight lodging and transportation fees. Administration proposed a three-year phase-in to equalize student and adult rates: the draft plan would set a single price of about $165 for this year, rising to approximately $182 the next year and near $200 in the third year, while continuing to work with PTOs to raise funds for families in need.

Administration said they had consulted elementary principals and PTO presidents about targeted fundraisers and class funds as possible revenue offsets. The business office confirmed logistics: last year the trip used six charter buses for round-trip transport and the district will provide a full cost breakdown to the board as part of the overnight-trip approval paperwork.

Board members expressed support for preserving the Camp Canadensis experience and favored a multi-year phase-in and communications to families explaining the drivers of increased cost. Administrators noted there are existing supports for families that cannot afford the trip and that PTOs already help offset costs in many cases.

No final decision was taken; the board will see a detailed overnight-trip approval form with a full breakdown before approving the trip.