Teachers and parents who want to sponsor year-end trips for students, may find it's a little tougher to get approval from the Hamilton county school district.
It may come down to whether its an "educational" or "leisure" trip.
School trips are a tradition.
Whether it's a couple of hours at the Aquarium...or a trip to Disney World in Orlando.
Almost every school does it.
But Superintendent Rick Smith says its time to re-assess those trips, especially senior trips out of town.
The school district will make its case before the school board in November, and try to tighten-up the policy.
Some board members have already made up their minds.
RHONDA THURMOND, SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER IN:23:02 "we don't have to sanction it. Because when we sanction it...that is just an extension of the classroom..so therefore we are just as responsible just as if they were in a schoolhouse."
JEFFREY WILSON, SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER "If you're going to allow overnight trips..for band, juniors, and even for students as far down as elementary school..you should be equitable.""I don't think you should do away with them altogether."
Sandy Hughes, a teacher for 10 years before she became president of the Hamilton County Education association, says the trips are necessary.
SANDY HUGHES, PRES. HCEA "They are used as motivators, especially with your middle school, high school students. We want them to stay in school , we want them to have events to look forward to."
A final decision may hinge on whether it's described as an educational, or leisure trip.
JONATHAN WELCH, SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER "These kids are going to be 18, their parents are more than welcome to take the trip with or without the system. Not every school has taken them, traditionally."
SANDY HUGHES "To cut them all out because of a recent negative experience, to me is provincial thinking, and a knee-jerk response."
Five high schools are now planning senior trips to Orlando.
CSAS, CCA, Brainerd, HIxson and Red Bank High Schools have asked the school board for permission.
The superintendent's recommendations will be presented to the board on November 15th.
