Public School Fees & Charges (K-12)

Free Public Schools
Children have a constitutional right to attend free public schools.

Minimum Reasonable Amount
State law allows districts to charge the smallest reasonable amount for enrollment and minor fees.

Districts must consider students’ ability to pay when they set minimum reasonable amounts.

NO FEES OR CHARGES ARE ALLOWED FOR STUDENTS ELIGIBLE FOR FREE MEALS.

Fees Must be Reduced for Students Eligible for Reduced Priced Meals.

Common School Fees

• Enrollment
• Field Trips
• Mandatory Fundraising Goals

Some schools know they must help pay for some field trips and fees but you need to ask for help.

An extension of the classroom is a part of the free public school system.

But
You will have to pay for extra things like the year book, admission to school dances after school, book fairs, sports, etc.

How to Reduce or Remove Fees

Enrollment Fees:
When enrolling ask for an application for free or reduced priced meals.

Write a note or quietly tell the enrollment clerk.

If you are still having a problem, contact the principal.

Extra Fees:
Write a note to your child’s teacher or homeroom teacher during the beginning of the school year.

If the teacher still requires payment, then contact the Principal.

What Do You Do If You Are Still Having A Problem?
If you are still having a problem, contact the school district and report the problem or apply for legal services.

Resources

To locate your district, find a school in your district and for other parent resources
State of South Carolina

For general questions about education:
South Carolina Department of Education
1429 Senate Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Telephone: 803-734-8500

If you would like to seek assistance of legal counsel:
SC Bar Lawyer Referral Service
Telephone: 803-799-7100
Toll-free: 800-868-2284

Additional information may be found at:
LawHelp.org/SC
South Carolina’s guide to free legal resources

This brochure was prepared by South Carolina Legal Services and is provided as a public service.
Copyright retained by South Carolina Legal Services
Printed December 2014