OKEECHOBEE — In accordance with changes made on May 22 to Section 1006.15, Florida Statutes, as a result of Senate Bill 538, school districts may 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 has to be made and put into effect by July 1, 2026.

At the regular meeting of the Okeechobee County School Board on Tuesday, June 16, the board voted on the policy, and it was passed with a 3-2 vote after much debate.

Several members of the community came to the meeting to share their thoughts on the matter before the board voted.

Billy McCullers asked that the board take more time to think about it before voting, stressing that it was a choice for the districts to enact this policy and not a requirement.

Danielle Stevens spoke against it, worrying that it may reduce the involvement of private school students in athletic programs.

When it came time for the board to discuss the policy Malissa Morgan reminded fellow board members that they didn’t need to rush into a decision just yet, despite the decision needing to be made before July 1.

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 members of the community that if such fees were ever instated, she was certain help would be available to families that were unable to come up with the fee.

The board voted, and the policy was passed with a vote of 3 to 2.