Is an activity fee necessary?

Yes, an activity fee has become a necessary component of properly funding extra- curricular programs in our District. It is our belief that the growing costs associated with extra- curricular activities should be offset to some extent by participating students and their families.

Does a family with multiple children participating in multiple activities have to pay an activity fee for each child?

A “Family Cap” is in place, which is a maximum limit on the amount of fees a family has to pay to participate in extracurricular activities. In the WCASD, the maximum family cap is set at $250 per school year. No matter how many students from one family choose to participate, and whatever the number of activities they’re part of, the amount any one family pays in fees cannot exceed $250.

What about students from economically disadvantaged families, or those for whom an activity fee is simply too great a burden?

The WCASD has experience in making sure that all students, regardless of financial status, have access to everything from school materials to daily breakfasts and lunches. The activity fee program has been implemented in a similar way to ensure that any student facing economic hardship will be able to participate, with sensitivity to the respect and dignity each child deserves.

Who determines whether or not a student falls into the category of economically disadvantaged?

The activity fee is automatically waived for all Free and Reduced Lunch students. In addition, activity fee waivers will be offered by the District for families experiencing financial hardship. Parents/Guardians may apply by completing the Waiver Application for Activity Fee in the back of this packet.

My child participates in an extra-curricular activity that does not make use of a paid teacher or advisor so do I have to pay an activity fee for him/her?

No, an activity fee does not apply to extra-curricular programs in which a paid (supplemental contract) position is not involved in advising or coaching students.

How will the activity fee be applied based on the grade level of each student?

Elementary Students: Grades 3-5

Families of elementary students will be assessed a $28.00 activity fee per student, per year which allows the student to participate in one or multiple elementary- funded activities (orchestra, band, chorus, and intramurals).

Middle School Students:

Families of middle school students will be assessed an $84.00 activity fee per student, per year, which allows the student to participate in one or multiple funded activities and/or sports.

High School Students:

Families of high school students will be assessed a $112.00 activity fee per student, per year, which allows the student to participate in one or multiple funded activities and/or sports.

Are there any activities in which students participate that represent exceptions from having to pay a fee?

Yes, service activities – which are those activities that involve students performing a service to the school or student body – will be exempted from activity fees.

Examples of service activities include Bus Safety Patrol (elementary), Yearbook (middle and high school), Student Government (middle and high school), Class Officers 9th through 12th grade, and student members of the National Honor Society.

How will an activity fee be collected?

The activity fee is collected annually and, if you choose to participate in a funded activity, please pay by using the online payment method, PaySchools Central. Additional payment information is available on our Activity Fee website.