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 (OR HOMELESS STUDENTS). SOME FEES MUST BE REDUCED FOR STUDENTS ELIGIBLE FOR REDUCED-PRICE MEALS.
Common School Fees
- Enrollment
- Field Trips
- Mandatory Fundraising Goals
Schools must reduce or cannot charge students on reduced or free meals for field trips that are an extension of the classroom. Ask for help.
You can get help with the cost of instruments for band and special calculators.
You will have to pay for extra things like the yearbook, 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 in writing.
Extra Fees - Write a note to your child's teacher or homeroom teacher at the beginning of the school year. If the teacher still requires payment, 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.
Mission
South Carolina Legal Services is a statewide law firm that provides civil legal services to protect the rights and represent the interests of low-income South Carolinians.
Vision
All low-income South Carolinians will have full and fair access to justice.
Contact Us
1-888-346-5592
Apply Online
www.sclegal.org
www.lawhelp.org/sc
