Nipmuc School Committee approves Disney trip for music festival competitions

The Mendon-Upton Regional School District held a School Committee meeting on May 12, 2025, where various topics were discussed, including student achievements, upcoming events, and administrative updates.

The meeting began with a performance by a student band, which received commendations for their initiative and talent. The band members organized themselves, selected their song, and practiced independently, showcasing their dedication and teamwork. The audience was encouraged to applaud their efforts, highlighting the importance of student involvement in school activities.

Following the performance, student representatives shared updates on recent accomplishments. Notably, they celebrated a gold medal win at the Hash Memorial Challenge and discussed their participation in various events, including a jazz ensemble performance at a local restaurant. Upcoming events were also announced, including the EBSCO Pops concert and a senior meeting to plan a special performance.

The meeting then transitioned to administrative reports. Superintendent Jacqueline provided updates on key initiatives, including the approval of a state earmark for key card security access, which has been a priority for the district. She also announced the district's designation for innovative career pathways in environmental science and healthcare, following a recent STEM summit.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on the upcoming music department trip to Disney World, scheduled for June 16-22, 2025. The trip aims to provide students with a festival competition experience and workshops with professional musicians. However, concerns were raised regarding the timing of the trip during the school year and its impact on students' academic responsibilities. After discussion, the committee voted to approve the trip, recognizing its value for student development.

The meeting concluded with reminders about upcoming events, including a multicultural night and the Best Buddies Friendship Walk, emphasizing the district's commitment to community engagement and student participation.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the district's focus on student achievements, the importance of extracurricular activities, and ongoing efforts to enhance educational opportunities within the Mendon-Upton community.