Skip to main content
Main Menu Toggle

Pay Student Fees

LETTER REGARDING FEES
Dear Parents and Guardians,
 
As you embark on this educational journey with us, we would like to inform you about the Annual Student Activity Fee. A school fee is a nominal charge assessed to students enrolled at Amundsen High School to help cover certain specific school-related expenses not funded by regular school district revenue. This includes, but is not limited to, materials, extracurricular activities, and other student-oriented resources.  
 
A comprehensive list of student fees can be found on our school website at amundsenhs.org. It's important to note that, under the laws of the State of Illinois, public schools have the authority to implement such fees to ensure the provision of a comprehensive educational experience. These fees directly contribute to enriching our students' academic and extracurricular experiences, and we sincerely appreciate your understanding and support. Your cooperation in this matter is instrumental in providing the best for our student community. 
 
Families facing financial difficulties, who find themselves unable to afford school fees, have the option to submit a fee waiver application. Fee waivers can be accessed on the Amundsen High School website or from the main office. Your child's education is our priority, and we're here to support you in every way we can.
 
Warm Regards,
Kristi Eilers
Principal
 
 

PAY STUDENT FEES (Traducción al Español a Continuación):

 

Preferred Payment Method: Aspen Parent Portal

Amundsen High School requires families to pay mandatory school fees through the ASPEN Parent Portal as it offers real-time account information synced directly to your student's account. 

 

ASPEN Parent Portal Instructions:

  1. Log into your Aspen Parent Portal account 
  2. Click the 3-line navigation bar "Navigation Menu" (top, left side) on the HOME screen
  3. Click "Fees"
  4. Click on the item(s) you wish to pay to activate the "Pay Online" button
  5. Click "Pay Online"
  6. Submit Payment Information 

ASPEN Parent Portal support: 

If you are a parent or guardian having difficulty accessing the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) Aspen Parent Portal or need to create an account, you have three main options for support:

 
1. Complete our ASPEN Parent Portal Support form (preferred)
2. Contact Ms. Highfill ([email protected]) or Mr. Rodriguez ([email protected])
 
In your email be sure to include the following information:
 
  • Student's Full Name 
  • Parent/Guardian's Full Name 
  • Student ID Number
 
3. Visit the CPS Parent Portal support page: This page offers self-service options, including a password reset link and FAQs for account creation and troubleshooting.

 

Alternate Payment Method: ePay 

ePay can be used to pay optional school fees such as:

 

  • Ventra Cards
  • PE Uniforms
  • Special Events: Haunted House, Theater Tickets, Fundraisers, etc...

 

 Accepted Payment Methods:

  • Valid Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express credit and debit cards.
  • E-checks (direct debit from your checking account by entering your bank routing and account number)
 

Note: For security and efficiency, we do not accept cash payments. Personal checks are accepted exclusively as e-checks submitted via the Aspen Parent Portal.

 

Fees and Affordability: 

  • Alternative Payment Arrangements: If a student cannot pay at registration, they can request a payment installment plan or a deferment through the business office with Mrs. Chinchilla or via email at [email protected]. 
  • Installment Plans: These plans allow students/families to spread out fee payments over time. 
  • Payment Deadlines: All incurred fees must be paid by the end of the school year. Specific monthly payments apply for those on installment plans.
  • Consequences of Non-Payment: Accumulation of outstanding fees is a hurdle that can arise from unpaid school fees over time. Especially as students prepare to graduate. Resolving these outstanding amounts in a timely manner is crucial for maintaining good financial standing with the school and avoiding any disruptions from one school year to the next. 
  • Seeking Assistance: Students facing difficulties in paying fees are encouraged to contact their school's Business Office to explore available options.
 
Fee Waiver Updates: 

Chicago Public Schools (CPS) has updated its fee waiver process to make applying for financial support easier for families.

 

Step 1: Submit the Family Income Information Form First (also known as the school lunch form)

Before taking any other steps or filling out additional paperwork, complete and submit the Family Income Information Form (FIIF). CPS uses this initial form to determine your household's baseline eligibility.

 

Step 2: Next Steps Based on Eligibility

  • If Eligible: No further action is required. The school will review your form and adjust eligible student account charges accordingly.

  • If Denied: If your household is not approved based on the FIIF, you will need to complete and submit the official Fee Waiver Application for further review and consideration.

 

Submit a waiver application: 

If your Family Income Information Form was denied, you can still apply for a CPS fee waiver. Complete the application and submit your income documentation using these steps:

  1. Obtain the waiver application: This form can be obtained from the main office or online at amundsen.org/fees. Click the "Fee Waiver Application" tab on the landing page.
  2. Complete the application form: Fill out the waiver application accurately.
  3. Gather required income documentation: You must provide documents that verify your household's current income for all household members aged 18 or older. Acceptable documents include pay stubs, unemployment/disability statements, W-2 forms, tax returns, and evidence of participation in programs like Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF. If providing monthly income proof, submit two months of documentation.
  4. How to Submit Applications & Documentation:
    In Person: Main Office (Attention: Mrs. Chinchilla)

Questions or Concerns:

For any questions or concerns about school fees, please feel free to contact Mrs. Chinchilla via email at [email protected] for assistance.