aries2756-
I was a little naive when my oldest started kindergarten and I assumed that the tuition contract included everything. On the first day of school she brought home a letter saying that we had to pay $50 or so for trips throughout the year. When they actually went on the trips we had to send in money for the trips as well.
When it came time for PTA the letter said to bring your checkbook, which I (being naive) assumed was for a bake sale or something. The school had a desk set up right when you walk in where they wanted $50 from us. The person explained that $15 is for a Chanukah present for the teacher and $35 is for PTA dues. When I asked what “PTA dues” are she explained that it’s for when they go on trips so that they don’t have to collect for each individual trip.
Later that night she stopped by our house to have a little talk. She explained that $15 goes towards the teachers gift, but since more than 2/3 of the fees aren’t paid, those who do pay are slapped with the mysterious $35 fee. This clearly shows how a small amount can quickly spiral out of control as the amount gets higher and higher as less and less people pay.
(By the way, I remember from my years as a teacher how important it is for a teacher to feel appreciated and I had no problem paying the extra amount once I found out what it really went for. I’m not getting into what is right and wrong, I’m just saying what happens. We also got the teacher a more expensive gift on our own because we felt she did a great job and wanted to show our appreciation.)