WILMINGTON, MA — The recent terrorist attacks in Belgium has not deterred a planned Wilmington High School 10-day World War II-themed field trip to Europe during April vacation.
At Wednesday night’s School Committee Meeting, Superintendent Mary DeLai did announce a precautionary change made to the trip.
“One stop on the agenda was in the city of Bastogne in Belgium,” said DeLai. “[Lead Chaperon and WHS Teacher Maura Tucker] spoke with the travel company, which has adjusted the trip’s itinerary. The group will no longer stop and stay over in Belgium, but will, instead, spend an extra night in Germany.”
Stops on the trip include Krakow, Berlin, Normandy and Paris, but the WHS contingency will be “staying clear of Belgium,” stressed the superintendent.
“I appreciate Mrs. Tucker’s attention to the safety and security of our students and staff,” noted DeLai.
According to the field trip’s approval form, students will “explore Western European World War II destinations to gain awareness of global perspectives and connections.” The trip is “custom-designed to be aligned to WHS World War II and Facing History curricula.” The trip will “provide global settings [for students] to sharpen critical thinking, problem solving, communication, collaborating and global competence,” while helping them develop interpersonal and leadership skills.
The trip is being an organized by Explorica, an educational travel company. The cost of the trip is approximately $3,649 per student. A 1:6 chaperone-student ratio will be maintained.
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It’s probably safe to say that “explorica” doesn’t have kids going on this trip and would maybe rather take the money in lieu of our kids saftey….
“I” have a kid going on this trip and I am confident that he will be safe. You have no idea the levels security and planning that are going into this trip. Explorica is already all paid and would lose no $ if the school cancelled the trip at this point. Or, should I build a wall around my kid to make sure he never experiences life? I hope you are not the same kind of person who complains about kids these days being too coddled. On this trip they will visit WWII historical sites and see first-hand the effects of war and what evil can do. They will also witness that when people who are the side of good work together, they can defeat the hate. What better lesson on earth in this day and age is more relevant or important? I’m proud that my son worked to pay for this trip on his own and I’m so thrilled that he will have this opportunity. Of course there will be nerves, but we cannot stop living and learning.