School Fees – Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What fees are schools allowed to charge parents?
  2. The list my child brought home includes brand name products (e.g., Crayola, Elmer’s Glue). Do I have to purchase these more expensive brand names?
  3. It seems the schools are asking for excessive supplies (e.g., placemats, tennis balls, baby wipes). Why is this necessary and am I required to supply these?
  4. Who should I speak with if I have concerns regarding a school supply list?

 

1. What fees are schools allowed to charge parents?

  • Basic schools supplies parents have always been expected to provide their children, such as pencils, pens, paper, exercise books, folders, markers, crayons, glue, scissors, geometry sets, calculators, book bags, pencil cases, and gym clothing;
  • Costs associated with enrichment programs and materials required for local courses which are not prescribed by the Department of Education (e.g., local courses in aquaculture, musical theatre, photography, web design, or Workplace Health and Safety);
  • Travel associated with co-curricular/extra-curricular activities, field trips;
  • Pizza days, book fairs, etc. (The nature and frequency of these activities is determined at the school level.)
  • School clothing, graduation ceremonies, school rings, school photos, etc.,
  • Rental of musical instruments; and,
  • Voluntary fundraising activities for a specific purpose – such as student travel, sports uniforms, playground equipment, etc.

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2. The list my child brought home includes brand name products (e.g., Crayola, Elmer’s Glue). Do I have to purchase these more expensive brand names?

No, the expectation is that parents purchase basic school supplies; the brand name is at the parents’ discretion.

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3. It seems the schools are asking for excessive supplies (e.g., placemats, tennis balls, baby wipes). Why is this necessary and am I required to supply these?

The list of school supplies is at the discretion of the school. If you feel that a supply is unnecessary, please contact the school principal.

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4. Who should I speak with if I have concerns regarding a school supply list?

If you have concerns regarding the school supply list, please contact the school principal.

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