The administration of Dale Federwitz Christian Children Home in Paynesville is facing public backlash and calls for investigation by the Ministry of Education over its decision to charge an excessive graduation fee to 6th grade students, far exceeding the amount mandated by Ministry of Education authorities.
According to an official document dated June 5, 2025, the school is requiring parents to pay a total of $70 United States Dollars for their children to participate in the upcoming 14th Thanksgiving graduation program, scheduled for June 28, 2025. This fee includes $60 USD for the graduation package which comprises a medal, graduation fee, certificate, transcript, letter of recommendation, and souvenir and an additional $10 USD as a refundable deposit for the graduation gown.
However, the Ministry of Education has clearly stated that 6th-grade graduation fees should not exceed 5,000 Liberian Dollars (approximately $25 USD at the current exchange rate). The $70 USD fee imposed by the school more than doubles the government-approved ceiling, placing an unexpected financial burden on parents and guardians.
Several parents have expressed outrage, noting that such high fees are discriminatory and limit equal access to educational ceremonies. One parent, who asked to remain anonymous, said, “Education is already hard to afford in this country, and now we are being asked to pay more than three times what the government says is fair. This is wrong.”
The Ministry of Education has previously warned schools against exploiting graduation events as money making ventures. If found in violation, schools could face sanctions, including fines or license reviews.
Local education advocates are calling on the Ministry to investigate Dale Federwitz Christian Children Home and to ensure that no child is denied participation in their graduation ceremony due to inability to pay the inflated fees.
As graduation season continues across Liberia, this incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in ensuring equity, affordability, and compliance within the country’s private education system.
For further information or to report similar cases, concerned parents and guardians are encouraged to contact the Ministry of Education compliance unit or contact our institution.
