Student fee proposal gains support
But it generates testy moment in meeting
Greenfield — The Whitnall School Board last year put a moratorium on student fees but now is considering lifting it to generate more revenue.
In a discussion that was partly an outflow of the decision not to pursue cost savings through restructured elementary schools, School Board member T.J. Anderson, who had been a main advocate against fees, reversed his position on Monday night.
Anderson, who said he heard "loud and clear" from those who feel the fees are necessary, proposed a sweeping set of fees.
"I've been opposed to student fees since I got on this board. I'm still not happy with student fees, but I've heard your call," he said.
Many of his proposed fees were much higher than those administrators proposed. The cost to join a club, for example, would be $100 compared to administrators' proposed $25 fee.
Still, Anderson noted, his proposed fees would still not come close to covering the cost of certain programs and extra-curricular activities.
But board member Suzette Larson criticized Anderson in a heated exchange for changing his position and not giving board members enough time to mull his proposal.
"You're coming in now way on the other end," she said. "To have this pushed in our face at this point is absolutely ridiculous and it feels like you are trying to get back at somebody because your fee (moratorium) didn't work."
Anderson denied that insinuation, again noting his proposal was the result of much feedback from parents.
The board will continue the student fees discussion into March while considering other budget cuts brought to the table Monday.
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