Tri Creek board reinstates student fees for 2025–26; fees vary by grade and course

The Tri Creek School Board voted to reintroduce supplemental student fees for the 2025–26 school year after a two‑year statewide pause in district charging for curricular materials. Dana, the district staff member presenting the proposal, reviewed the background: state legislation had provided a statewide appropriation for curricular materials that led districts to suspend fees; however, the statutory appropriation did not fully cover districts’ contractual and curricular costs. Dana said the district had trimmed curricular purchases and renegotiated some contracts, but a shortfall remained. The board approved a fee schedule that distinguishes between K–8 supplemental fees and high‑school course fees. Dana presented sample amounts from the packet: K–8 fees of about $45–$68 by grade or course selection; high‑school grade‑level base fees (for ninth through twelfth) ranging from about $12 to $90 where items such as the SAT/PSAT are included for certain grades; and course‑specific fees for career and technical education (CTE) and elective courses ranging up to $269 for a full year of welding (the higher CTE fees reflect consumables, safety gear and tools). Dana said the district expects the fees to generate between $150,000 and $200,000 to partially cover curricular shortfalls. She also noted that students who qualify for free and reduced lunch will be exempt from fees. Board members discussed the burden on families with multiple children and noted existing booster fundraising and limits on fundraisers. Several members cautioned staff to communicate clearly to families why fees are returning and how amounts were calculated. The motion to approve student fees passed by voice vote; the transcript records the board saying “Aye” and “Motion passes.” Staff said online registration and course coding will require several days of work and asked for time to implement fee coding before registration opens. Next steps: staff will finalize registration system coding and implement districtwide communication explaining changes and exemptions.