Some schools are failing when it comes to communicating the law to students and their families, which is leading them to spend money for no reason
As thousands of Southern California seniors are preparing for their public high school graduation ceremonies, many have no idea that it’s against state law for their schools to require them to buy a cap and gown without offering a set to wear for free.
According to the law, school districts must provide graduation attire at no cost to students or their families if required during the commencement ceremony.
The legislation is aimed at ensuring that low-income students have access to the same essential campus activities as their peers.
According to the California Supreme Court, the high school graduation ceremony is “an integral part of the educational process.”
Along with providing free cap and gown for commencement, the California Department of Education requires schools to offer students the option to buy a set “as a keepsake” for $20.
But some schools are failing when it comes to communicating the law to students and their families, which is leading them to spend money for no reason.
If you think your school is not in compliance, you can file a complaint form that can be downloaded here.
Here are other educational activities California public schools are not allowed to charge for, according to state law:
Science lab equipment or supplies
PE uniforms required to take the class
Participating in sports teams
Attending graduation ceremonies
Books used in class
Photography or art class supplies
Attending summer school