Board reviews first draft of student fees policy; proposes replacement fee for lost phone pouches

Miss Amy Watkins, the division’s director of finance, presented a first‑reading review of Policy JN, the student fees, fines and charges policy, explaining that the annual review reorganizes fee lists across the division and removes outdated items.

"For the most part, the updates were minimal. Each school fee list had been reorganized or reworded just kind of consistency across all of the four schools," Watkins said, noting the only proposed new change was a replacement/repair fee for lost or damaged cell phone pouch storage at the high school, charged at actual replacement cost.

Board members sought detail on how activity charges are applied across programs. A trustee noted that band and chorus fees appear on the list while athletics replacement fees for equipment (helmets, uniforms) may be handled under broader language; Watkins said the policy contains general language about replacement of damaged or stolen school property but staff would review whether additional specificity is needed.

Members raised concerns about fee equity and waiver practices. Watkins confirmed that principals often work with parents to set up payment plans and that the policy provides notice that fee waivers may be requested; she also reiterated that existing law and board policy prevent withholding report cards or diplomas for nonpayment of certain school charges.

The board discussed logistics for technology repairs and warranties. Watkins said the division has evaluated vendor repair and warranty options and will try two external repair vendors so devices can be shipped out and returned while a lender device is issued to students in the interim.

Watkins said the revised Policy JN is expected to be presented for inclusion on the June 22 board consent agenda; no formal vote was taken at the meeting.