[FrankJ]

Unfortunately money is often the issue.
School systems have to balance the funds available with a bunch of competing interest.

FRC is expensive. Funding your team is a never ending job. If you are getting significant dollars from your school you are going to have to be prepared to make a continuing case that is the best use of their (or tax payer) money. Some body else is making the case that the money is better used for their project.

One advantage of doing Chairmans is you have a ready made presentation of how your team effects the community & promotes STEM. Use it.