For at least 12 years, sophomores at Southold High School have packed their bags and headed off on a trip to Europe, — last year’s 10th graders brought home photos of countries including Greece and memories to last a lifetime.
But this year, amidst daily threats of international unrest and terrorism, board of education member Scott Latham said parents should think twice about sending their children to Europe.
“In light of what’s going on in Europe right now, I’m not one to say, ‘Don’t go,’ but I would be remiss to at least not suggest to students that they should at least think about this. There are a lot of bad things going on, and you see on the news, things that are planned to go on.”
Latham said the U.S. Department of State has urged caution to travelers, “saying war acts are going to happen,” Latham said. “I would counsel parents who are thinking about sending their children. I wouldn’t send my children right now, but that’s up to everyone’s individual sensibilities and what they’re comfortable with.”
He added, “I do not feel comfortable with sending 15-year-olds over there as targets, honestly.”
Southold School Superintendent David Gamberg said the district has an obligation to keep parents apprised of what the U.S. Department of State has warned, as well as to be in direct contact with the travel company organizing the trip.
“We are very mindful that the situation is volatile at the moment. It’s extremely sad, to say the least,” Gamberg said, adding that the trip is a well-loved tradition. Gamberg said he’ll keep parents apprised as the shifting situation evolves. So far, the trip remains scheduled to take place as planned.
Latham said if parents do decide to send their kids on the trip, they should register their children with the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, “So if something bad happens our representatives will come find you and assist you. If they don’t know you’re going, they can’t help.”
BOE member Judi Fouchet said the board could make registration mandatory for traveling students. Looking ahead, she said, “Communication is key.”
Former BOE member Scott DeSimone spoke and said, as the parent of a 10th grader, perhaps the board could decide to allow sophomores to go on the Europe trip next year, should this year’s event be cancelled. There could be two groups going next year, he proposed.
“That might take some pressure off parents making this decision, so it won’t be a missed opportunity,” he said.
