The short answer is that districts, including IUSD, will be much more dependent on voluntary donations to preserve valuable programs and activities for Irvine students. Here’s the backstory on this case: In September, the American Civil Liberties Union filed a lawsuit against the state over charges and deposits imposed on public school students. In the suit, the ACLU cited examples from 35 districts, including IUSD. Both sides have since agreed on a tentative settlement with broad ramifications that will require school districts to review and modify their practices. Though terms of the settlement will be spelled out in subsequent legislation, it’s clear that students and parents cannot be required to pay money to gain access to educational activities, nor can they be charged for materials and supplies necessary to participate in educational activities. “Educational activities” include those considered extracurricular, including music, sports and some clubs. That said, the law does not