The Impact of Fee Waivers on Economically Disadvantaged Students in Virginia Public Schools

As an expert in the field of education, I have witnessed firsthand the significant impact that fees and charges can have on students and their families. In Virginia, it is strictly prohibited for any school board to impose fees or charges on students unless they are authorized by the Board of Education or the General Assembly. This policy is in place to ensure that all students, regardless of their financial situation, have equal access to education. One of the most crucial components of this policy is the provision for fee waivers for economically disadvantaged students and families who are facing financial difficulties. This includes families who receive unemployment benefits or public assistance, such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or Medicaid.

It also encompasses foster families and homeless families. These fee waivers play a vital role in ensuring that these students are not deprived of education due to financial constraints. It is the responsibility of school divisions to inform families about the availability of fee waivers and provide them with instructions on how to apply for them. This must be done every time a fee is charged, to ensure that families are aware of their options. School divisions are also not allowed to charge any fees that have not been approved by the local school board.

This ensures consistency throughout the division, although different rates may apply at different levels. However, it is important to note that this policy does not prohibit school boards from making supplies, services, or materials available to students at a reasonable price. This means that schools can still offer these items for purchase, but they must be reasonably priced and not mandatory for students to buy. Another crucial aspect of this policy is that local school boards are not authorized to charge fees for teaching materials, textbooks, or other materials that are not directly used by public school students. This ensures that families are not burdened with additional costs for materials that are not essential to their child's education. As a condition of school enrollment, all students are required to pay fees, with the exception of those who are not of school age or do not reside within the jurisdiction. This is in accordance with Articles 22.1-1 and 22.1-3 of the Virginia Code, as well as § 22.1-5 of the Virginia Code.