District 65 2013 School Fees Range From $28-90

August marks the end of summer and back to school shopping, but students and parents can’t forget to factor in school fees.

"The District has been collecting General Student Fees since the 2003-2004 school year,” said District 65 Communications Director Pat Markham. “Since the program was implemented, the fees were increased only one time; in fiscal year 2012-13.”

District 65’s 2013 school fees remain consistent with last year, and students must pay the fees the day before school starts to avoid a $20 late fee, according to District 65’s website.

Most students will end up paying $120-$130 in initial fees with participation and supply costs paid as needed. The average student will pay $90 for the general student fee. Families with two or more students will pay $180. Additionally, the activity fee is $30 for students in grades K- 5, while students in grades 6-8 will pay $40.

For those who qualify for reduced-price lunch, the fees are significantly lower. Families with one student must pay a general fee of $28, while families with two or more students will pay $56. Students must also pay an activity fee of $9-12. These fees, before participation and supplies, add up to $37-$40 for families with one student and $65-$68 for families with two or more students.

Students who qualify for free lunch are exempt from both the general and activity fees.

Families who cannot pay the fee because of special circumstances but are ineligible for free or reduced lunch can apply for a payment plan or ask for an administrative waiver.

Students who live 1.5 or more miles from their school and those who live in neighborhoods where walking or taking public transportation to school is not viable can qualify for free student transportation, according to District 65 Transportation.

Students can receive transportation after paying $422 for the 2013-14 school year.  Fees for students who qualify for free or reduced lunch will be waived. If a student does not qualify for free or reduced lunch but has a special circumstance, the family can apply for a payment plan.

To see a full list of school fees, visit the District 65 website.