School is a place which allows students to unleash their creativity and flourish. It can be through academics, sports, music, clubs, etc. 

But what if it’s school itself that creates a barrier for students? Is it the expenses of schools that stop students from achieving beyond their potential?

Oftentimes for lower income families, school expenses create a significant barrier for       high school students by limiting access to essential, non-tuition costs. 

The financial pressure leads to decrease in participation and higher dropout rates.

I asked students, teachers, and counselors about their opinions on if the cost of various school activities (Sports, AP Tests, other extra curricular activities) affect students, how it affects them, and if it creates a barrier for further achievements.

Arts and Theatre instructor Erin Allen shares her opinions on how the cost of school affects students. 

“Students and their families are affected by costs due to drastic inflation beginning in 2020 where family budgets continue to be stretched to cover costs of necessities: housing, utilities, groceries and gas,” Allen said. 

Furthermore, she added why it is different for low income families.

 “For some families where income is less flexible, additional costs can become a deterrent from opportunities. In high school, many students are able to hold jobs to create more income to afford their budget needs,” Allen said. 

Senior Isabella Fitch also agreed that cost can be a barrier for some students. 

“It can discourage students from being active in school and taking harder and more challenging courses.” Fitch said. 

On the other hand, Ashlee Payne, AP and DE English teacher, had something a bit more  different to say. 

“I would say that the cost can vary, but here it is more important to consider stress and          time. 

The cost of an AP test is about $100; however, the “cost” in terms of time and stress is much more. An AP course is much more rigorous and involved than a standard course,” Payne said.

“AP courses have to follow the College Board syllabus and units, which means there are certain skills and content I have to cover. With 9 units for the AP Lang and Comp course, there is only so much time in the classroom, which means that students have to complete homework,” said Payne.

Additionally, she stated that if students wanted to do other extra curricular activities then they have a limited amount of time to do so. 

It can be true for many cases where associated stress from rigorous courses can lead to forcing students to work extra hours, burnouts, self isolation, and engaging less in other activities. 

Factors mentioned above make it hard for many students to keep up with day-to-day activities.