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Kennewick board approves 2026–27 student fees and athletic funding, pauses middle-school user fee decision
Summary
Boosters, parents and administrators reviewed ASB cards, user fees and gate revenues for district activities; the board approved the district's 2026–27 student fees and athletic funding but set aside the middle-school user fee for additional study and possible elimination.
District staff, including Assistant Superintendent Melissa Johnson, presented an overview of student activity revenue streams (ASB cards, participation user fees and gate fees) and how the funds support coaching stipends, officials, transportation and athletic training. The presentation explained fee waivers for students qualifying for free and reduced-price lunch and described how athletic budgets typically range from about $500 to $8,500 per program depending on needs.
Athletic staff explained conference bylaws for gate pricing and described logistical reasons some gyms do not charge (for example, to avoid multiple paid entry points). Board members discussed family passes and options to avoid gate fees being a barrier; staff noted passes are school-specific and that gate revenues are an important revenue source for activities.
After discussion, the board moved to approve the 2026–27 student fees and athletic funding schedule while directing staff to return with a proposal on whether middle-school user fees should be reduced or eliminated and how the cost would be backfilled. The board did not adopt a final policy change on middle-school fees at this meeting; staff will analyze financial impacts and report back.
