By Jon Gulliver
Staff writer
CARIBOU — Upper level and advanced placement French students are hoping for a “bon voyage” now that the Eastern Aroostook RSU 39 school board has given approval for a spring trip to Quebec.
At its monthly meeting last Wednesday the board gave unanimous approval to the proposed trip, which will cost the district roughly $1,000 in bus related expenses and the cost of two substitute teachers to fill-in for the two who will chaperone the trip, tentatively scheduled for Sunday, April 29 through Tuesday, May 2.
The purpose of the trip according to French teacher Dan Fishman is two-fold.
“We felt that a limited group accompanied by the French teachers in a total immersion situation would provide students with a necessary and valuable experience,” he said. “One that would surely give them an advantage as they prepare for the advanced placement test.”
He added the AP curriculum requires the students use genuine resources to gain proficiency in the language.
Caribou High School senior Caleb Chapman, before the board voted, explained why he thought the trip will be a benefit.
“You learn a lot more by listening to other people speak,” said Chapman. “That is one thing we need to work on is listening to other people speak French. This would be a great experience for all of us.”
The other costs associated with the trip, about $200, will be paid by the students. Fishman, responding to a question from board member Kent Forbes, said if a student has financial difficulty paying for the trip arrangements can be made.
The school board also unanimously approved a job description for a debate club adviser for LCS/MSSM. This will be a non-stipend position, filled by Matt McGreevy.
The goals are to promote competitive debate, improve research skills and student relationships between LCS and MSSM students and most of all to have fun. The long-term goal is to prepare the LCS/MSSM team for membership in the Maine Forensics League.
The Eastern Aroostook RSU 39 school board’s next meeting is Dec. 21 at 7 p.m. at the office of the Superintendent of Schools.
