Big Walnut board votes to eliminate general student fees and pay-to-participate charges for 2025–26

The Big Walnut Local School District Board of Education voted July 21 to remove the district’s general student fee and general pay-to-participate fees for athletics, band and choir beginning with the 2025–26 school year.

Superintendent Ryan Gooding presented the recommendation, describing the move as part of the district’s efforts to reduce out-of-pocket costs for families and noting the district’s stronger financial position compared with prior years. Gooding and board member Mr. Gooding (referenced in discussion as the board member who brought the topic forward earlier) said the change will not eliminate all fees: tuition for all-day kindergarten, Advanced Placement test fees and specialized travel or optional trip costs will remain.

Board members discussed the history of the fees and the district’s financial picture. The board approved the motion to remove the general student fee and the general pay-to-participate fee; the motion passed during the meeting’s business items.

The board did not specify a new funding source in the motion; the superintendent indicated some fee elimination costs may be addressed through the district’s current financial position and state funding, and he said the district will continue to monitor state reimbursements and budget impacts.

Ending: The district will update the student–parent handbook to remove the listed fees for the 2025–26 school year; other fees tied to tuition, AP exams, travel and optional experiences remain in force.