ARHS BENEFIT PACKAGE:

Assistance Programs Available for Students

YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO PARTICIPATE FULLY IN THE LIFE OF AMHERST REGIONAL HIGH SCHOOL AND BEYOND.

If you qualify for our Nutrition Program (free or reduced breakfast/lunch) you are also eligible for financial support programs that will allow you to have equal access to existing services and activities in ARHS and in our larger community. The ARHS benefit package contains all of the following fee waivers, fee reductions and eligibility for other assistance.

CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Waivers for:

Materials fees for classes (Audio/Video, Photography, Journalism, etc.)
Fees for field trips
Band or orchestra instrument rental fees
Summer School enrollment fees (for MCAS based classes)

Eligibility for:

Work-study program
Paid Internship program
Access to scientific or graphic calculators loan program

SCHOOL-SPONSORED ACTIVITIES

Waivers for:

Athletic Fees to participate in teams.
Admission fees to Athletic Events, Plays, Musical Events, etc.
Costs of Club/Team Mandatory Apparel

Access to:

Sports physicals
Refurbished pre-owned computer (as available)
Holidayfund (as available)

COLLEGE ADMISSION PROCESS

Waivers for:

Registration fees for the PSAT, SAT I, SAT II, and ACT standardized tests (recommended or required for admission to many colleges and universities)
Waivers for application fees to four colleges (often $50 or more per college)
Waivers for filing fees with the NCAA Clearing House (required for recruited athletes in the college admissions process)

Reduction in:

Registration fee for the TOEFL (often taken in the college application process by foreign students whose first language is not English)
Registration fees for Advanced Placement tests (for earning college credits while in high school)

ACTIVITIES FOR SENIORS

Waivers of fees for (Cap/Gown, Yearbook, Prom Tickets)
Assistance with Costs of prom apparel
Assistance with costs of other graduating class activities

OUT-OF-SCHOOL SERVICES AND ACTIVITIES

Assistance with enrollment for Mass Health
Assistance with Mental Health information/services and referrals
PVTA bus passes (as available)
Assistance with waivers for enrollment in Leisure Services Activities (Town of Amherst) such as Sports, Art Classes, etc.
Referrals/Partial Scholarships for summer programs at Leisure Services and other organizations

Additional Services Available to All Students

Homework Clubs
Boys and Girls Club Membership
Parking fee subsidy for students on WorkStudy/Internships/College classes
Translation Services for school meetings
Mentoring Program

All families are encouraged to complete the free/reduced breakfast/lunch form at the start of school each year. Our school is committed to provide a nutritional program for all of our students who qualify; therefore, we urge you to take advantage of this program. Students will receive the application form during their first day of school each year, but families can complete them at any time during the school year if changes occur in their financial status. Forms are available in the Main Office of our school.

QUESTIONS

If you have questions about how to access these services, or need assistance with the application for free and reduced lunch, please contact Maureen Fleming, Outreach Counselor in Room 311A or at 362-1756.