District Provides Guidance on Student Fees - 7/27/11

Dear Parent and/or Guardian,

Many California school districts are modifying their practices concerning student fees, changing traditions that go back many years. This letter is to bring you up to date on this important topic.

This matter stems from a settlement that was reached in December 2010, between the State of California and the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), in a lawsuit regarding fees charged to students in violation of the free school guarantee in the state's constitution. The constitutional provision prohibits charging students fees for curriculum and extracurricular educational activities.

The ACLU settlement reinforced the prohibition on student fees by stressing that "pupils may not be charged fees or be required to purchase equipment or materials, to participate in a class or an extracurricular activity," even if the activity is voluntary and not for credit. All supplies, athletic equipment, musical instruments, materials and uniforms, for curricular and extracurricular activities, must be provided to pupils free of charge. This will have a major impact on practices in most California school districts.

The Sweetwater Union High School District is committed to providing all students with a free and exceptional education. All students shall have equal opportunities to achieve at every level. Our booster clubs offer tremendous support to the district, especially in these very tough economic times. For this, we are grateful.

Over the last several months, parents and community members have asked for some clarity on this issue.

Students and parents are not required to purchase PE clothes or locks from the school Associated Student Body store. These items may be purchased anywhere.
Students and parents are not required to purchase an ASB card to receive discounts.
Parent participation in a booster club is not mandatory. Moreover, no student shall ever be required to raise money in order to participate in an activity or program sponsored by a school-connected organization (including booster organizations.) Nor does the district intend for any student to feel as if they cannot participate in such activities because they do not have the resources to participate.

As a public school district, our goal is to educate all of Sweetwater's students at no cost. As always, we welcome your valuable input on how to meet our vital objectives.

Sincerely,

Edward M. Brand, Ed.D.
Acting Superintendent