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Board caps ACT tutoring fee at $100 after debate over costs and access
Summary
After discussion about cost and equity, the board amended the school fees list so ACT tutoring (external vendor program) will be listed at a maximum of $100 per student; staff had reported a contracted tutoring session cost of $4,200 for up to 50 students.
The Lakeland School Board voted to amend the district fee schedule to cap the ACT tutoring fee at “not to exceed $100” per student, after discussion about program cost, reach and whether the district should subsidize tutoring.
The decision matters because it affects student access to a district‑facilitated ACT preparation program and triggers staff follow-up about other ways to broaden access without passing large one‑time costs to families.
Board member Michelle Childs pressed for a lower fee during discussion: “that is really expensive. I do not feel comfortable with that,” she said. Superintendent Dr. Horrell and staff explained program pricing and alternatives. Dr. Horrell said the contracted “Jane Ross tutoring session” quoted in the discussion had a pricing structure of “$4,200, for up to 50” students, and noted neighboring districts sometimes fund ACT prep from the general fund.
Board members proposed alternatives including bulk or district-paid models, teacher training to embed high-leverage ACT strategies in classroom instruction, and “train‑the‑trainer” options that would empower staff to reach more students without the same vendor fee. Tristan Gately Sweat (CFO) confirmed staff were examining cost and budget options and had placed the topic on the agenda to get board direction.
The board approved the amendment capping the fee at not to exceed $100 and then approved the amended fee list. The superintendent will continue examining options for wider access and potential budget support in future work sessions or budget amendments.
