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Parents urge hybrid cash-and-digital ticketing; board to form committee
Summary
Parents told the board that exclusive cashless ticketing (GoFan) creates access problems for elderly and cash-reliant fans; the district's Parent Advisory Council asked the board to explore a hybrid option and consistent student-ticket policies, and board members agreed to have a committee develop recommendations for next school year.
The Natchitoches Parish Parent Advisory Council urged the school board April 21 to reconsider exclusive cashless ticketing at athletic events and to pursue a hybrid model that preserves access for people who rely on cash.
Gwen Fontnau, chair of the district parent advisory council, said volunteers working gates have seen visitors unable or unwilling to use online vendors and QR codes. "In lieu of GoFan is that the board look at options, a hybrid option, hopefully offering maybe a cash system in addition to an online payment system," Fontnau said, describing problems with internet connectivity, QR scanning, and visiting fans buying the wrong event ticket.
Parents and some board members said a hybrid approach could reduce vendor fees applied to individual purchasers and make attendance easier for older patrons who do not use smartphones. Board members noted that some schools have had smooth experiences with cashless vendors, while others have not.
Board members agreed to form a committee—the parent advisory group will present recommendations—to study options and deliver recommendations for implementation before the next school year.
No final policy change was voted on at the meeting; the board asked the committee to return with specific proposals on hybrid operations, advertising/communication for visiting fans, and consistent student-ticket rules.
