Board hears options to cap or charge for athletics and activities as district seeks savings

Tiffin City Schools staff presented the board with options to reduce district spending on athletics, performing arts and clubs, including introducing or expanding pay-to-participate fees, imposing caps per household or eliminating district-funded transportation for activities.

The presenter said the district currently spends "a little over $400,000 a year on athletics, activities, club events." A fee structure that staff modeled could produce an estimated $318,000 but would not cover the full cost; the presenter warned the district cannot rely on fees as a sustainable, standalone solution because participation would likely drop and some families might not ask for need-based assistance due to pride.

The presenter and commenters raised equity concerns: fees would also apply to homeschooled students and students from neighboring entities who participate in Tiffin teams. Board members asked about capping fees per household; staff said caps would reduce revenue and therefore shift more cuts elsewhere in the budget.

Community members and board representatives said extracurriculars contribute to graduation rates, student engagement and local economic activity. One resident said extracurriculars help students who otherwise would not graduate and noted scholarship opportunities tied to community involvement. Speakers warned that reduced offerings could drive families to enroll in other districts.

Staff said any fee structure or other extracurricular changes would require additional work to estimate impacts, and that the board would consider those options alongside other savings measures when staff returns with a recommendation.