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Board approves Hellgate High School cultural-exchange trip to Kumamoto, Japan
Summary
Trustees unanimously approved Hellgate teachers’ request to take 20 students to Kumamoto Prefecture in October 2026 for a 9-day cultural exchange with homestays; trustees probed fundraising plans (estimated under $3,000 per student), student-selection criteria (minimum 2.0 GPA and no disciplinary record), vendor vetting, and safety planning.
The board unanimously approved Hellgate High School’s request to take 20 students on a cultural-exchange trip to Kuma Moto Kita, Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan, Oct. 9–17, 2026.
Three Hellgate teachers explained the itinerary: travel to Tokyo, a day of vetted sightseeing with an English-speaking guide, a visit to the Hiroshima Peace Museum, and travel to Kumamoto for homestays, school visits and participation in a local cultural festival. The teachers said the trip would build on a long-standing sister-state relationship between Montana and Kumamoto Prefecture and recent reciprocal visits.
Funding and selection: presenters said the trip should cost less than $3,000 per student (homestay included). Families are expected to fundraise; the group has received at least a club grant from Hellgate student government and is exploring additional grants and local fundraising (T-shirt sales and community events). Selection standards include a minimum 2.0 GPA, no disciplinary actions and regular attendance; 20 students have committed.
Safety and vendor vetting: trustees asked about vendor experience and safety protocols; presenters selected a local vendor with frequent travel to Japan and a demonstrated commitment to supporting U.S. school groups. Trustees asked for clearer packet materials on educational objectives and safety and suggested outreach to include students who might not otherwise self-select into the trip.
Outcome: Trustees moved and seconded approval; vote was unanimous for all present. The motion authorizes out-of-country travel as presented and asks staff to proceed with standard approvals and family outreach.
