I don't think that I would have a problem paying for my kids to be out of school if it was truly a financial hardship for the school system. BUT if that school system is in such dire straights, I would also be expecting that all other extracurriculars are being paid for by parents as well. $36.xx is a bargain to me for everything that my kids get in return for quality family time in a place that offers all kinds of educational opportunities. I would hope that the parents of school athletes, musicians, dancers, and other activities would feel the same and offer to fork over the same funds required to provide the transportation, uniforms, and equipment. I know that in most school systems those things are part of the budget. If the school districts can work that into the yearly financials, perhaps they should look at the value of time with families and budget for that as well. JMO.