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RSU 73 board approves student travel: Costa Rica international trip set for April 2028; Rangeley and Boston trips also approved
Summary
After a Spain trip recap, the RSU 73 board unanimously approved a proposed nine-day Costa Rica trip for April 2028 and signed off on a Rangeley canoe trip and an eighth-grade Boston day trip; presenters emphasized safety, chaperone ratios and fundraising responsibilities.
The RSU 73 school board unanimously approved a request to hold an international trip to Costa Rica in April 2028, following a presentation that recapped a recent Spain trip and outlined itinerary and safety plans for the Costa Rica proposal.
Jessica Ellingwood, the Spruce Mountain High School trip leader and a math teacher, presented the proposal and highlighted anticipated science and biodiversity learning opportunities. She told the board the proposed trip would be nine days and eight nights, and described activities including a boat ride in Tortuguero, snorkeling, hiking in Arenal and canopy zip‑lining. "I propose that we would go to Costa Rica," she said, adding that the travel vendor would be EF and that chaperone ratios would be roughly one chaperone per six students.
Ellingwood also summarized the recent Spain trip, noting 27 students and 14 adults participated and that the group raised $13,500 in two years of fundraising. She said fundraising offsets costs but does not fully cover family payments; EF offers a zero‑interest payment plan for families who choose it.
In separate agenda items the board approved a fully funded outdoor education canoe trip to Rangeley for 10 students led by Maine Teens to Trails and a no‑cost day trip for eighth graders to the Museum of Science in Boston. Chris Duca, a high school special educator and outdoor club advisor, described the Rangeley itinerary and noted the trip is funded through Maine Teens to Trails and Maine Gear Share for equipment.
Why it matters: These approvals allow planners to finalize logistics and begin student selection and registration. Board members asked about eligibility rules (the international trip is open to juniors and seniors), fundraising limits and safety protocols before voting.
The Costa Rica motion was moved, seconded and approved unanimously. The Rangeley canoe trip and the Boston day trip were also approved without recorded opposition.
