Music department trip to Croatia, Slovenia and Bosnia approved for April 2027

The Rockport School Committee voted to approve a proposed international music performance tour to Croatia and Slovenia, with a day trip to Bosnia, for April 2027 after a presentation from the music department.

Nathan, the music department presenter, described the itinerary — performances in Dubrovnik, Split and Ljubljana and visits to Mostar, Zadar, Plitvice National Park and Lake Bled — and emphasized curricular connections to Balkan folk and classical music. "I am presenting a proposed music performance tour to Croatia, Slovenia and with a day trip to Bosnia for April 2027," Nathan said, describing three contracted performances and local promotion handled by Encore Tours, the performance branch of the tour company the district is working with.

The presenter outlined cost and fundraising options, saying price per student depends on group size and that the department plans multiple fundraising tiers and scholarship support so "any student who would like to attend the trip can do that." He described insurance and protection tiers offered by the tour operator, including basic medical coverage and optional advanced protection that allows withdrawal without forfeiting the full payment closer to departure.

Committee members asked about eligibility, accessibility and chaperone ratios. The presenter said ensembles (band, orchestra, chorus) are open to any student and that the tour company accommodates mobility needs on a site-by-site basis. The trip is currently priced on different tiers depending on participation; the committee was told fundraising and scholarship plans are intended to reduce cost barriers.

Amy Oakes moved to approve the trip as presented; Mark Lorenz seconded the motion. The committee voted in favor.

The committee did not set final travel vendor contracts or a final price in public session; the approval was for the trip as presented and includes continued fundraising and scholarship efforts before final sign-ups.