Photo Credit: CHEYENNE PINO
BY VIRGINIA PENIAS
Clubs and extracurricular activities are a huge factor when it comes to what colleges look for in students. While academics are a priority, schools yearn for well-rounded students to become a part of their student body. Needless to say, students devote much of their time to participating in different clubs to get more involved in the community. Unfortunately, for clubs to be successful, they have to collect dues (usually ranging from $20 to $25). While this mandatory payment may help the organization financially, it makes it very difficult for those who want to participate but simply cannot afford it.
Club dues usually cover the cost of all supplies and activities for the students participating in the program and commonly a T-shirt. Although this is a fair exchange, it is a constant struggle for those who have financial difficulties. Cooper City High School had 568 students on free/reduced lunch during the 2012-2013 school year. It’s sad to say that the kids who get free or reduced lunch are not entitled to a discount on the club fee. Countless kids who want to participate in clubs are left in the dust every year because they cannot afford it. If someone wants to give back to the community, shouldn’t they be able to without having the pay a price?
Growing up with severe restrictions on spending can definitely put a damper on things involving education. While the public school system offers kids a free education from kindergarten through grade 12, this only covers a fraction of school costs. With college looming, clubs often become an extra “want” rather than a “need”. With that being said, even if an underprivileged has the opportunity to go to college, they often don’t have any extracurricular activities to add to their resume, because they can’t afford it. While the student may get a part time job to cover these extra costs, those who don’t have to work end up having an unfair advantage academically. Although it is necessary for clubs to collect money in order to exist, a compromise should be offered for those on free or reduced lunch, even if it is only a discount.
Clubs are a great way for students to get involved in the community and make friends. In a nation that preaches equal opportunity, no student should be left out of these activities – especially if it’s because of something like money.
