Bill addressing field trip funding held for further study

By: Ellie Romano

Email: ERomano@ABC6.com

Twitter: @ERomanoABC6

RHODE ISLAND (WLNE) – Several school districts in Rhode Island were forced to cancel field trips this past year because of state policy.

In September 2018, the former education commissioner was asked to clarify how schools could fund field trips. In April 2019, he announced schools cannot require parents to pay for field trips or extracurricular activities, which is what many districts were doing.

As a result, a handful of schools canceled upcoming trips to take the time to figure out how to pay for them.

“The RIDE advisory was not as clear as it could have been,” said Anne Musella, a member of the East Greenwich School Committee.

Local businesses have been impacted as a result of the canceled trips.

“Trinity Rep’s ‘A Christmas Carol’ had 2,000 less students that visited and had a chance to see the play this past year,” said Rep. Joe McNamara (D-Cranston, Warwick). “It’s been devastating to the education community.”

Rep. McNamara wants to help clarify how schools can pay for trips with a new bill he’s introduced. The bill would allow schools to ask parents for voluntary donations. Each donation would be kept confidential to protect a student’s identity.

“I believe time is of the essence. These extracurricular activities and field trips are essential for a proper education,” said McNamara. 

Despite his intention to improve the situation, some school committees are worried the bill might create a pay to play environment.

“Families who contribute to one sport can get their sport in play. But perhaps at the expense of others,” said Musella.

The bill would also allow a district to create a funding goal. If it is not met the school can cancel the trip.

“For example, if we needed $300 for a school bus, they could say to parents and community members that the goal is to raise $200 and the booster club will supply the balance,” said McNamara.

That part of the bill has raised more concerns for those who would have to implement it. 

“It creates real difficulties in creating consistency of programming. If we don’t make this $5,000 fundraising goal we say ‘oh, can’t do it!’ And two months before we have to cancel [the trip],” said Musella. 

Many members of the public who spoke at the bill’s hearing say the legislation is a step in the right direction, but want to see a few parts modified.

McNamara decided to hold the bill for further study so he can revise it.

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