Sharon Middle School Eighth Grade Trip Proposal We, the undersigned, support an end of year eighth grade trip that promotes team building and enhances the middle school curriculum. Compared to the value of the sixth grade Outdoor Education Program at Camp Bournedale, the Philadelphia option should be reconsidered to control costs and better reflect Middle School values of learning and inclusion. The trip to Philadelphia is not necessarily the best choice. • It is a financial burden on families in the current economy (around $650 for a three day trip). • There is a lot of wasted time and fuel on the 10 hr plus bus ride (not very green, think local). • There are aspects of the trip that do not support Sharon Middle School's efforts of a culture of inclusion (roommate choosing). Some less costly local options would be: • Thompson Island http://www.thompsonisland.org/events-and-conferences/packages • Camp Burges http://www.ssymca.org/camp/ • Six Flags New England instead of Hershey Park. • Dinner Cruise in Boston rather than in Philadelphia. The City of Boston is right at our doorstep and exploring local options might be a better value for our Middle School Families. Thank you for your consideration of our feedback.