School Donations and Balls

The Herald reports:

One of New Zealand’s largest schools has banned from its ball any students whose parents don’t pay annual school fees – a move one father says verges on extortion.

Avondale College says if the donation is not paid, students cannot attend the school ball on June 15 as it is an “extra-curricular activity” and ticket prices do not cover the cost.

Most schools ask for donations, and tens of millions are paid by parents each year. But schools cannot legally force parents to pay.

I don’t see the problem. The fees are used to subsidise the ball, so of course they can restrict eligibility.

It is educational services that must be provided free of charge, not social events.