School fees can be a financial burden to some parents, but the district has a policy to help those who can’t afford them.
That’s one provision in policy F-5 that trustees discussed at the Education Committee meeting on May 7.
School District 53 believes that fees charged to students should not impede their educational learning or experiences.
“The fees are fairly minimal, but the board has a hardship policy where fees are waived if the parent can’t afford it or won’t pay it,” said assistant superintendent Jim Insley.
He noted the concern usually arises over “optional curricular” fees, such as ski trip costs.
Every spring the board reviews the student fee schedule, which is approved in June. Each school principal establishes a process to facilitate the participation of students who would not otherwise be able to participate in activities due to financial hardship.
It is noted that fundraising is a component of a school’s efforts to enhance educational experiences for students.
Schools may assess an extra-curricular user fee for activities that are optional, and a commencement fee for Grade 12 students.
In addition, schools may charge a secondary material fee for projects beyond the basic material supplied by the school. Art, woodwork, metalwork, autobody, cooking and sewing are some course examples.
Other fees include:
A secondary refundable deposit fee, subject to loss or damage, for textbooks ($35) and graphing calculators as required ($35)
A student agenda booklet fee (up to $5) for recording homework assignments and school events
A student activity fee (up to $10) for student-determined activities and events
Parents or guardians are responsible for instrument rental or purchase agreements when students are enrolled in a band program.
All travel within the district is free, but students are responsible for food, accommodation and activity expenses.
