Parents Asking for Reduction in Fees for School Facilities

And while access for students has become an ever-present challenge during the COVID-19 pandemic, many parents are struggling to meet schools fees.  The crippling effects of the pandemic on the economy have caused many families to lose their only source of income, while others have had to cut back significantly. Parents are now calling on schools to reduce fees no longer applicable since children are not reporting to the physical building.  President Smith commented on both the parent and schools’ point of view on fees.

Elena Smith

Senator Elena Smith, National President, B.N.T.U.

“As a parent myself, I can understand those parents, cause when you have to find a thousand dollars to pay for your school year, for things your child will not be using. At least, parents are saying, at least give us a discount. We know the schools have bills to pay, but my child isn’t using the lab. My child isn’t using any bathroom facilities. There are certain of the cost included in the fee that parents are saying, listen if you cannot wipe it off completely then give us a discount. And, I can understand that. From a parent’s perspective, I can understand that. From the schools’ perceptive I can understand that yes the students are not here but we have bill. But even though you have bills, there are ways the bills can be reduced. Because the students are not there you don’t have them using the electricity, using the water, you don’t have to pay certain persons to be there. You still have to maintain the grounds yes, but I am sure the cost can be lessened because you don’t have the students there.”