Masconomet committee approves Spain immersion and China exchange trips for 2027

The Masconomet Regional School Committee on Monday approved two international student trips for 2027: an eight-day, seven-night Spanish immersion trip to Peru and a two-week exchange visit to China.

"Everybody, my name is Beatrice San Pietro," said Beatrice San Pietro, a high school Spanish teacher, as she presented the Peru itinerary, saying 18 students had expressed interest and that the trip would target students who will be seniors in 2027. A co-presenter said the district solicited quotes from three travel companies and selected Promotor; the estimated per-student cost is $3,171, covering airfare, hotels, most meals, transportation, excursions, insurance and a bilingual tour manager.

"We think that's a great opportunity for the students to practice their language in real life," Beatrice San Pietro said.

A second presenter, who identified herself as Ivy, described the China trip as a two-week program in April 2027 that would include Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu and Shanghai, visits to cultural sites and time spent at a sister school in Shanghai. Ivy said she sought four quotes and selected Harvest Global Education with a quoted cost of about $4,700 per student for a 12-student group; the quote covers four-star hotels, local transportation, entrance fees and travel insurance but not visa fees or personal spending.

Committee members asked about grade eligibility, whether airfare was included, and whether the quotes were current. Ivy said the China quote was generated last month and that airfare is the primary driver of price volatility. A member noted the district had negotiated the Peru cost down from about $4,000 per student to the currently estimated $3,171.

After brief discussion, a committee member moved to approve each trip. Both motions were approved on roll call.

The trips are scheduled for April 2027; organizers said final numbers and exact travel arrangements will be confirmed closer to departure.