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Board approves 8th-grade London trip after student presentation and fundraising plan
Summary
After a student presentation and discussion of fundraising and scholarship plans, the Exeter coop board unanimously approved an 8th-grade trip to London in June. Parents and staff described current fundraising progress and scholarship options to reduce cost barriers.
The Exeter Regional Cooperative School Board on April 15 approved an 8th-grade educational trip to London after hearing from teacher Colin Burke and student speaker Ella about learning goals and fundraising efforts.
Teacher Colin Burke described trip logistics and vendor research, saying the group compared options including EF and smaller companies; he recommended an established vendor he trusts for the itinerary and cost-effectiveness. Student Ella told the board the trip provides "a unique and enriching educational experience" and described student-led fundraising activities, including a calendar raffle, gift-card drive and the 7th-grade dance.
Burke reported the trip has seven confirmed students and noted scholarship planning: "We're in the middle of doing that gift card fundraiser, hoping for at least another $500," he said, and the group has raised roughly $1,700 so far with a target that could reach $3,000 for scholarships. Board members discussed how the scholarship funds might be distributed and asked about checks and tax-deduction considerations; administrators said checks were being turned in to Cooperative Middle School financial custodians and that tax-deductibility would require further inquiry.
After questions about fundraising and logistics, the chair called for a show-of-hands approval; members signaled their support and the board approved the trip to proceed.
Why it matters: Board approval allows planning and fundraising to continue; presenters emphasized student leadership, skill-building and international exposure as educational benefits. Administrators noted scholarship plans to help make the trip accessible.
Next steps: Staff said they will continue scholarship-application planning, finalize vendor contracts and share logistics with families.
