Council approves $3,000 contribution for Gaudet Middle School seventh-graders' Broadway trip

The Town Council voted to authorize a $3,000 contribution from the council president’s discretionary fund to support Gaudet Middle School’s seventh-grade trip to a New York City Broadway production tied to their literature curriculum.

What happened
Council members received a short presentation from students and teachers outlining the educational value of seeing the stage adaptation tied to their study of The Outsiders, and the funding need: the class had raised money and had tickets covered but needed roughly $8,000 more to cover bus deposits and reduced family costs. The council initially had a motion for $1,500 from the council president’s discretionary fund, and an amendment increased the contribution to $3,000. The amended motion passed by voice vote.

Why it matters
Council members emphasized the trip’s interdisciplinary value — literature, history and civic learning — and that access should not be limited by families’ ability to pay. Teachers confirmed all students who wish to attend will be included regardless of family resources.

Speakers (from transcript)
Marley Perry — seventh-grade student, Gaudet Middle School.Elena Rodriguez — seventh-grade student, Gaudet Middle School.Sophie Perotti and Amanda Buzena — seventh-grade teachers and trip chaperones.Vice President Wells (mover) and other councilors (movers/seconders during motion and amendment).

Clarifying detail: the bus deposit was due in February; the school had already paid $7,350 for tickets and had about $2,125 in GoFundMe donations; the group expects roughly 40 students plus adults to attend.