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White Street Elementary trip to Redgate Farm approved after partner highlights donors and program benefits
Summary
After a public presentation from Redgate Farm's founder, the committee approved a May 27-29, 2026 White Street overnight field trip; Redgate staff said the farm has hosted 1,500+ Springfield students since 2013, offers a week-long summer program with $50 tuition and has received more than $350,000 in donor support to offset costs.
The school committee voted Wednesday to approve an overnight field trip for White Street Elementary to Redgate Farm in Asheville, Mass., May 27'May 29, 2026, after a public presentation from the farm's founder.
Ben Murray, who identified himself as founder and executive director of Redgate Farm Education Center, told the committee the farm has partnered with Springfield schools since 2013 and has hosted more than 1,500 students. He described three-day, two-night field trips that immerse students in farming skills (planting, animal care, cooking, trail work), and a week-long summer program that is auto-discounted to $50 per student. Murray said generous donors had contributed "over $350,000" to offset tuition costs and that the farm plans to recruit five additional schools this fall.
"These trips represent a whole lot of firsts," Murray said, describing how the experience builds confidence and classroom engagement. Principal Siobhan K and White Street staff were present to answer operational questions; committee members and parents thanked donors and suggested the district consider an official thank-you or nomination for partner recognition.
The committee approved the trip by roll call. Staff noted the field trip has a long-standing relationship with Springfield Public Schools and that principal and chaperone logistics will be handled by school administration.
Ending: Families and staff will receive trip logistics following standard school procedures; staff also signaled plans to acknowledge donor support publicly.
Speakers quoted (first reference): Ben Murray; Principal Siobhan K.
