About half of Ohio schools now charge a fee for students to participate in sports and other extracurricular activities. The number is only expected to increase as many districts struggle to find the right balance between academics and sports, and enough money to fund both.

The issue has not been lost on lawmakers who formed a committee last fall to determine how much impact fees have on participation.

Ohio Sen. Cliff Hite, R-Findlay, and other legislators held four forums to collect public comments. Their report suggests no decision has been made whether legislative action will be needed.

There is still much to consider. Banning fees could hurt schools which rely on them to support their programs. Allowing fees, but capping them at a certain level, may not work because districts vary widely in size and wealth …

The goal, of course, should be to allow every student the opportunity to participate in sports and other activities. That opportunity shouldn’t be based on money.

The OHSAA should get more involved in the search for a solution. If not, the Legislature may have no choice but to intervene further.

 

The (Findlay) Courier