School committee approves 2027 Europe trip for high‑school students

The Maynard School Committee voted to approve a proposed high‑school international trip to Berlin, Prague, Krakow and Budapest, planned for roughly June 20–29, 2027.

William Sodto, who presented the proposal, said the early‑enrollment cost is $4,590 per student (rising to $4,719 after an early period) and described included services: full‑time tour director, hotels, most meals, sightseeing, basic travel insurance and 24‑hour emergency support from the vendor (Education First, or EF). Sodto said the trip will follow a 6:1 student‑to‑chaperone target and that chaperones and any adult over 20 must pass a criminal background check required by EF.

Sodto also described payment flexibility and scholarship options: EF offers payment plans and some scholarships, the group can pursue fundraising, and families may apply for district travel scholarships. He said EF has procedures for refunds or alternate itineraries if international travel is disrupted and that he will seek written contingency language from EF before enrolling students.

Committee members questioned how excused absences would be handled, whether contractual language from EF can assure refunds if a trip is canceled, and how the district will communicate cancellations. Brian, the superintendent, said such decisions and family communications would be managed by district staff and that he would follow up with EF and report back to the committee.

After discussion, the committee moved and approved the trip motion. Clerk minutes recorded affirmative votes by the members present.

Next steps: staff will circulate trip details and enrollment timelines to families and provide any written contingency or refund language obtained from EF prior to final sign‑ups.