By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, May 21: Parents of students at All Saints’ Diocesan Higher Secondary School have voiced strong opposition to the school’s recent directive mandating a payment of Rs 3,000 per student towards the School Development Fund (SDF).
In a letter addressed to the principal and referencing the circular issued on April 28, the parents expressed concern and disapproval over the decision made by the school management.
“We wish to respectfully express our concern over the imposition of the School Development Fund on parents. Given the current financial challenges many of us are facing, this additional expense is becoming increasingly difficult to manage,” the letter stated.
While acknowledging the importance of maintaining and upgrading school facilities, the parents stressed that such financial decisions should be made transparently and only after prior consultation and consent from the parent community.
They further suggested that any contributions toward school development should be voluntary, not mandatory.
“We kindly urge the school authorities to reconsider the current policy on the SDF and to explore more inclusive and considerate ways to achieve development goals without placing unnecessary strain on families,” the letter added.
In a statement to the media, the parents described the demand as unreasonable and unjustified, especially in light of existing school-related expenses.
“In today’s economic climate, where many families are already facing financial hardships, this additional levy is not only unfair but also deeply insensitive,” they said.
