OKEECHOBEE — Despite pleas from private school parents, the Okeechobee County School Board has elected to charge fees for private school students desiring to play sports with the public schools.

In June, the school board discussed this topic during a public meeting. A ruling by Governor Ron Desantis made it possible for individual school boards to institute fees for private school students wishing to join public school sports teams.  In accordance with changes made on May 22 to Section 1006.15, Florida Statutes, as a result of Senate Bill 538, school districts could assess an activity fee for students enrolled in private schools to participate in athletics programs. This fee can be up to, but not exceed, $400, and the decision to use this policy had to be made and put into effect by July 1, 2026. After much debate, the board voted 3-2 to pass the measure. 

During the meeting, board chair Jill Holcomb reminded everyone that if they passed the policy, it doesn’t have to be used at all, but if they don’t pass it, then it can’t be used in the future. She also stressed to everyone present that even if the policy passed, it would not mean that every private school student would have to pay $400 to participate in athletic programs. The number given is the maximum amount that can be charged. She and other board members also assured community members that, if such fees were ever instituted, she was certain help would be available to families unable to come up with the fee.

Lake Okeechobee News Staff Reporter Annie Wills contributed to this story.

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