SIOUX FALLS, SD (Dakota News Now) – Since it was announced in late July that cashless sports and fine arts events would be implemented within the Sioux Falls School District, other schools including Tea, Harrisburg and Brandon have followed suit.
One voice speaking out is Susan Lucious, the parent of a junior and a freshman at Lincoln High School, neither of whose children have smartphones or credit cards. She said the new policy singles out her family.
“We understand that not everyone has access to digital devices or credit cards, and we are committed to ensuring equal access for all event attendees,” the Sioux Falls School District said in a statement. But that's not the case for concerned parent Susan.
“This policy is nothing but discrimination against low-income earners and the elderly,” she said.
“Assistance can be received by contacting the participating school's activities office or the district's athletic or fine arts offices,” the Sioux Falls School District statement read in part.
Susan said that when she contacted the athletic director, she was told her only option was to purchase an athletic pass.
“So in that case, you don't need a smartphone, you need to pay with cash, you need to have enough money to buy a full activity pass, and you need to plan about two weeks for that option,” she said.
Susan said these passes are $20 per student and $80 for non-students.
She said after speaking at Sioux Falls and Brandon school board meetings, she heard they might reconsider the policy, which prompted her to change her message.
She explained, “Refuse to show up. If you don't show up to the first few events, they're going to have to look at the numbers and say, wait a minute, this isn't working.”
At a series of upcoming football games, one of many events that will allow cashless admission, Susan said she plans to stand outside and hand an attendant the cash she would have used to pay for the event, all for free and with a message attached.
“Why pay with cash at events? First, because it puts more money in the hands of the schools with no fees. Second, because it supports low-income people, seniors and students who are making the healthy choice of not having credit cards or smartphones. Third, because it ensures that your location cannot be tracked by QR codes. Fourth, cash is legal tender and ensures our financial freedom,” said Susan.
The Sioux Falls School District concluded its statement with, “Our staff will be happy to help families get accustomed to the new system and ensure everyone can participate in all Sioux Falls School District events.”
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