The DeKalb County Board of Education provides funds for the operation of schools in the DeKalb County District, and no fees shall be collected as a prerequisite for registration for school attendance or courses.
Basic materials required to complete each course of study in which students are enrolled will be provided. Students have the option of utilizing basic materials provided by the District or providing equivalent approved materials at their own expense. All textbooks, library books, media materials, musical instruments, band uniforms or any other equipment or property purchased by the District shall remain the property of the District.
All students are expected to supply basic supplies such as paper, pencils, crayons, pens, and notebooks, but no specific types or brands of materials may be required. The District shall provide all instructional materials required in the course guides as well as all materials required for study by an entire class of students.
Students are required to wear appropriate attire. Students are required to wear athletic shoes in physical education classes. Uniforms may be deemed to be appropriate at certain schools.
The District shall provide limited inventories of certain musical instruments to students enrolled in the instrumental music program when available.
It is permissible to charge fees for extracurricular activities as long as such charges are not made a condition of attendance or credit within the regular day academic program. Examples of such legitimate charges include activity fees, gate admissions, graduation fees (if participation is not required), replacement/repair costs for loss or abuse of school district property, and student publications.
Fees shall not be charged to students for field trips or activities to a state-funded course as a condition of full participation or credit in the course.
Students may be charged for replacement/repair costs due to loss or abuse of school system property including, but not limited to textbooks, library books, media materials, musical instrument, technology, or athletic equipment.
The school district shall not withhold any student record because of nonpayment of fees. However, the school district may withhold diplomas, or certificates of progress, and other awards until all fees, fines and charges are paid.
The Board retains the right to charge students replacement/repair costs for lost, damaged, or abused property as specified in this policy. Students shall be notified in writing of any charges assigned to them and that failure to pay the fee may result in sanctions until payment is made. Opportunity shall be given for the student and/or parent to meet with the appropriate school official to discuss any fines or fees levied against the student.
If a student or parent is unable to pay the levied fee due to hardship, the parent must notify the Superintendent or designee who will review and may make arrangements for the student and/or parent to satisfy the obligation.
The Superintendent is authorized to develop regulations to implement this policy.
Legal References
- Ga. Const. Art. VIII, ยง I, Para. I — Public education; free public education prior to college or post-secondary level;support by taxation (Lexis)
- O.C.G.A. 20-02-0133 — Free public instruction; exceptions; eligibility; procedure and requirements when child in custody of or in a placement or facility of a state agency (Lexis)
- O.C.G.A. 20-02-0168 — Distribution of federal funds; combined purchase of supplies and equipment; minimum school year; summer school programs; year-round operation (Lexis)
- Rule 160-5-1-.12 — Student Fees and Charges/Required Student Equipment and Material