[RSCT] field trips and test scores

[Sylvia McGauley]

Our new superintendent has just imposed a very highly restrictive field
trip policy on the district on the grounds that our standardized test
scores are too low, and that increased in-class instructional time leads
to more learning and higher test scores.  (He says, "the research is
clear.")  The district will no longer pay for any part of any field trip,
including substitute costs, and we are not permitted to ask students or
families to donate anything towards field trips.  We can fundraise, but
not in the presence of students.  Field trips are limited to one trip per
semester per grade level -- except for sports and music departments. 

Has anyone else had such an experience?  
How did you deal with it?  
Does anyone know of any resources which might be helpful in addressing
this issue?

Thank you,
Sylvia McGauley