GROVE CITY, Ohio -- Pay to play in sports and other extra-curricular activities are hot issues in the South-Western City School District -- especially since the operating levy was defeated, and the activities are canceled.
But there might be new hope for students because Pay to Play is in the discussion again.
At a special school board meeting Wednesday evening, the decision to put Pay to Play back on the table didn't have everyone convinced, but there were signs of hope.
"If they can find a way to do it to keep it at an affordable rate, give opportunities to those kids, I can compromise with it," said Denise Diaz, a voter.
Diaz wants to make sure students at Franklin Heights and Westland aren't excluded.
Parents and students who spoke with NBC 4 at the Grove City YMCA said they think the boosters can make a difference.
"I think the boosters will help. They already do help, but I think that there's other ways for them to step it up," said Paulie Davis, a parent and booster.
Grove City High School students said they remain optimistic that families will find a way to pay.
"I think definitely here. I think sports are a big part of Grove City High School and I think without a problem, I think kids will definitely pay," said Michael Mayers, a Grove City High School senior.
"I definitely think it has a chance, like, if we compromise with the no voters, then hopefully we get some of them on our side," said Paige Myers, a Grove City High School student.
Both sides agree they have to come together to make any plan work. Parents said they want their kids to have something to do with their downtime and student athletes want to get back on the field.
Sports and other extra-curricular activities cost approximately $2.5 million.
School board members said they philosophically disagree with Pay to Play, but it appears to be what the community wants.
The school board was scheduled to meet again Thursday at 7 p.m. for a second vote.
Calls to the district on Thursday were not returned.
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