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JFK Middle School trip to Paris approved; student advisory lays out new NHS course options
Summary
The committee approved a proposed six-night JFK Middle School trip to Paris and the Student Advisory Council presented the NHS course catalog changes, highlighting two new AP courses and a new AB half-credit schedule intended to increase course access.
The Northampton School Committee on April 9 approved a proposed six-night Paris field trip for JFK Middle School students and heard a Student Advisory Council presentation on new course offerings at Northampton High School.
Teachers Kate Parrot and Lexi Mannon described plans for a Paris itinerary and fundraising approach, saying the trip would aim to be accessible through staggered payments, community fundraising and targeted scholarships. "We're aiming for 15 to 25 students and will expand chaperone coverage as needed," Parrot said, describing a 1:6 adult-student chaperone ratio used in overseas middle-school travel. Committee members urged organizers to prioritize accessibility for students who cannot afford travel or who have immigration or other constraints that make international travel difficult.
Earlier in the evening the Student Advisory Council, presenting from a bus en route to Williamsburg, reviewed the NHS course catalog and new scheduling changes. SAC presenters highlighted two new AP courses for 2026: AP Music Theory and AP Comparative Government (the latter focusing on non-U.S. government systems), several returning electives including Genocide Studies, and a new AB day schedule where many classes will be half credits to allow students to take a wider variety of courses.
Presenters also noted concern about AP course sequencing (AP Comparative Government will not be offered to sophomores under the rotation plan) and that some dual-enrollment options would not run next year. Committee members and attendees asked about teacher professional development for new AP offerings and scheduling logistics for adjunct college courses.
The Paris trip received committee approval after members discussed funding, chaperone ratios and inclusivity measures. Administrators and trip leaders said they would return with detailed itineraries, accessibility options and fundraising plans as the group moves toward implementation.
