Board reverses $15,000 activity‑fee increase for NBIS/NBHS, tables late‑bus decision pending cost study

The North Branford Board of Education voted on Sept. 17 to reverse a recently instituted $15,000 increase in athletic activity (pay‑to‑play) fees that had affected NBIS and NBHS families. Board member Kim moved to reconsider the increase, and after debate the board amended the motion to have the $15,000 come from the general fund this year, with staff able to reconcile or transfer funds to Fund 25 at year‑end if needed.

"I can make a motion to reconsider the activity and pay delayed fees," Kim said when proposing the motion. The board discussed whether the motion sought to eliminate fees entirely or only reverse the $15,000 increase; members clarified the intention was to rescind the increase for the current year and to address caps and refunds for families who already paid.

The proposal also triggered a broader conversation about restoring a district late bus, which some board members argued supports equitable access to extracurricular activities. Administrators warned that offering a late bus generally could trigger special‑education transportation obligations (requiring the district to provide comparable service to students with IEP‑specified transportation), potentially increasing costs above the base late‑bus estimate.

After amending the motion to specify general‑fund sourcing, the board recorded 'Yes' votes from Vice Chair Dawson, Secretary S., Judy Bannon, Carolyn Delora, Victoria Laza and Marcenio; the amendment passed and the $15,000 reduction was approved as amended. Staff will implement refund/credit mechanics for fall athletes and will provide a cost analysis on a late bus (including special‑education implications) before any final decision.

The board tabled the separate late‑bus decision pending a transportation meeting and additional cost information.