Board approves nine-day Costa Rica trip for high-school students; cost and chaperone arrangements detailed

The Winthrop School Board approved a proposed nine-day out-of-state and overnight field trip to Costa Rica for high-school students during the February 2027 school vacation, following a presentation by high-school teacher Tiff Shaw.

Tiff Shaw described the itinerary—flying into Alajuela, boat travel to Tortuguero National Park, ziplining in the Sarapiquí/Arenal region, kayaking on Lake Arenal, and time in Guanacaste with snorkeling and national-park visits. Shaw said the quoted cost at present is "$4,100 for students and $5,000 for adults," and explained the trip operator provides one free chaperone spot for every six paying students and additional free chaperone slots for larger groups. Shaw said she already has interest from at least one other teacher as an additional chaperone and plans a parent-student information night to explain details and a $200 attendance discount for attendees who sign up at that meeting.

Board members asked whether multiple board members would need to attend; Shaw responded that any chaperone slots are handled through the operator’s rules and that the trip is open to any high-school student who signs up. The presentation noted fundraising would be used to lower individual costs but that families may still need to cover much of the cost themselves.

The board approved the trip by voice vote; the transcript records the motion carrying. No special funding was approved by the board at the meeting; Shaw said additional parent information and fundraising plans will follow.