[mdituri]

Having mentored two teams with significant socio-economic differences, the original team didn't have "registration" fees, however, they paid for 100% of their trip costs. They did a "fundraiser" which was more about team building and typically the parents would just cut a check for $600 - $800 to travel to the local regional (overnight/hotel), a travel regional (airfare/hotel), and champs (airfare/hotel). We had scholarships available and didn't really have to ask which students could or could not afford it, I would just speak privately to their parents, they would give me a small amount (maybe $50/$100 per trip) and we would cover the rest.

Moving to my new team, we ask for $10 for their team shirt in October. Veterans don't need a new shirt since it is last years shirt in the fall. Then, I found out quickly that this particular group was not able to cut me a check for $200 (or even $100), so we sold about 5,000 bags of veggie chips and other various snacks to raise the money for their trip. I am going into this school year knowing that they each need to raise $500 and giving them ample opportunity to raise the money. I will always find money for the robot and the adults going on the trip, even if I just pay for it myself. I tried having parent meetings, but found out that their parents are working their 2nd job, so that was a bust. Basically, I am assuming that we have to raise everything on our own and if they can cut a check great, if not, its already paid for.

I am certain that no one is denied the opportunity to be on a FIRST team based on finances. I do think that it shouldn't cost your team anything to recruit the students in the fall, which typically means the cost of the t-shirts. You can ask them for the cost of a t-shirt and if your school charges for field trips typically, you can ask them for that fee.