Board reviews proposed orchestra trip to France and band/orchestra trip to Canada

The finance committee reviewed two proposed student-funded international trips. Administration presented a Council Rock High School South orchestra trip to France (March 18-25, 2027) with an estimated cost of $3,999 per student. Staff said the trip is paid by students and families and that multiple fundraising opportunities are available to offset individual costs. The district carries international trip liability insurance, requires teacher and parent chaperones and conducts itinerary dry runs prior to student travel.

Separately, school officials presented a shorter Council Rock High School North band and orchestra trip to Canada (March 17-22, 2027) with estimated per-student costs ranging from $1,785 to $2,885 depending on group size and occupancy. Administrators explained the cost variance results from tiered pricing tied to the number of students and occupancy rates; again, the trip cost is borne by families and the district provides insurance and chaperone oversight.

Board members asked whether trips include performances and competitions; staff said trips typically involve performance and sometimes competition. Board members also asked about district liability and chaperone requirements and were told the district carries international insurance and schedules teacher and parent chaperones for oversight. The transcript records discussion and clarifying questions but does not include a formal committee vote on these agenda items in the finance committee record.

Next procedural steps noted by administration include continuing itinerary development and bringing any required final agreements and approvals to the full board per regular procurement and travel policies.