District presents first reading of 2026–27 school fees, reiterates $7,500 per‑student cap and overnight-travel rules

District staff presented a first reading of proposed school fees for the 2026–27 school year and explained statutory and district controls on fees.

Staff stated the district is proposing a total maximum fee of $7,500 per student per year (a statutory requirement) and explained the distinction between fee courses (where districts may charge fees) and core non-fee courses (math, English, science and social studies). Staff also said AP and concurrent-enrollment courses have a specific carve-out and that the district will provide an alternative path to meet graduation requirements for students who choose not to pay fees.

On overnight educational travel, staff said requests are tied to curricular objectives and that, under the new law, a student may receive a fee waiver for overnight travel only when the trip is defined as two or more nights. Staff reminded coaches and advisers that required parent-travel forms must be completed when parents will drive other students.

Why it matters: the fee cap and waiver definitions shape students’ ability to participate in fee-based activities and overnight trips; the board received the first reading and staff will return with updates for a second reading in May.