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Cary board hears proposal to keep registration fees flat; members discuss simplifying structure
Summary
Business office recommended keeping 2026—27 registration fees flat to offset possible federal funding shortfalls; board discussed a simplified flat K—8 fee to improve equity and reduce family cost volatility and asked staff to analyze implications.
Mister Shepherd presented a recommendation to keep registration fees unchanged for 2026—27, saying those fees help offset supplies typically supported by federal Title funds and that continuing uncertainty in federal revenues argues for maintaining current rates.
Board members discussed whether to simplify the tiered fee schedule and move to a flat kindergarten—1st grade fee that spreads higher-grade costs across all years to reduce the yearly burden for families with multiple children. One board member noted simplified, flat fees could improve equity and predictability for families; another member cautioned that older grades incur higher per-student instructional costs and that fee structure often reflects those differences.
Staff said registration fees must be used only for consumables and technology (not staff pay) and that any structural changes could be implemented for the following school year depending on the scope of the change. Shepherd said he favored exploring options and might bring proposals to the board for consideration ahead of next year's budget.
