Administration recommends no increases to student fees for 2026–27; waivers and payment plans available
Summary
District administration proposed keeping registration, technology, extracurricular, preschool and facility rental fees unchanged for the 2026–27 school year. The board discussed waiver options and payment plans for families and asked administration to consider more proactive communication about payment options.
District administration presented its annual review of student fees for the 2026–27 school year and recommended keeping the current fee schedule unchanged.
Registration and technology fees: Administration recommended no change to the current registration and technology fees (including the previously adopted technology fee for one-to-one devices). The district offers a $25 early-payment discount if paid by May 31 and a refund policy for students withdrawing prior to Jan. 1.
Extracurricular fees: Administration recommended keeping athletic and activity fees unchanged (examples cited: $175 for major sports, $120 for musical participation). The administration noted prior exploration of alternatives and stressed current recommendations reflect financial realities and a desire to maintain access.
Preschool tuition and transportation: For families not eligible under the Preschool for All grant and without special education IEPs, the recommended tuition remains $250 per month (four days per week); optional transportation additions (if space on a route exists) remain at $52 per month.
Facility rental fees: Administration recommended retaining the current rental fee schedule. The presentation noted existing intergovernmental agreements with the Grayslake Park District and Round Lake Park District that provide reciprocal or no-charge use for certain facilities.
Board members requested clearer, proactive communications about payment-plan options and noted principals have building-level discretion to grant fee waivers for qualifying families. Administration said payment plans and building waivers are available and they will provide more information to families and consider a proactive communication strategy.
