Board reviews draft student fee schedules and fee-waiver procedures; staff emphasizes flexibility for families

District staff presented draft 2026–27 fee schedules and the annual review of fee-waiver policy and procedures on Feb. 17 and solicited board feedback ahead of public comment periods in March.

Presenters noted that last year the district eliminated most curricular and co‑curricular fees and that the schedules being reviewed mostly adjust athletics and a few other items. Staff said the posted fees are maximums and that not all schools charge the maximum. They reiterated that families who do not qualify for automatic waivers may still seek situational waivers through principals and that schools are required to designate a fee‑waiver administrator annually and to provide translated forms and one‑on‑one assistance as needed.

When asked about the process for changing fee amounts, staff said fee adjustments normally flow through school site councils (SCCs) and then the district’s administrative process, with opportunities for public comment at board hearings. Board members urged clearer communications to families about waiver availability and recommended that the district ensure principals and school staff are trained and that fee‑waiver information be included at registration.

What’s next: staff said the draft will be posted for the two required public comment periods in March, and the board will consider final approval before April 1. Trustees were reminded that reinstating curricular/co‑curricular fees is an option the board could revisit but is not included in the current draft.

Ending: The board signaled general support for the posted schedule with a request that the district improve outreach and ensure waiver processes are widely known.