The EVIT Governing Board voted unanimously recently to cut program fees in half for high school students who enroll at the East Valley Institute of Technology for the 2021-22 school year.

“Our board members recognize that the COVID-19 pandemic has caused financial hardship for many of our families, and they do not want any student to lose the opportunity to attend EVIT because of program fees they cannot afford,” EVIT Superintendent Dr. Chad Wilson said in a release.

EVIT programs are tuition-free to high school students who live in 11 East Valley school districts — Mesa, Apache Junction, Queen Creek, J.O. Combs, Scottsdale, Fountain Hills, Tempe, Chandler, Gilbert, Higley and Cave Creek.

“EVIT is fortunate to have an elected governing board that puts the interests of students and families first,” Dr. Wilson said. “We appreciate their support in helping us to fulfill our mission of changing lives by loving our students and serving our community.”

The board made the decision at a Feb. 25 meeting. A listing of fees by program is at bit.ly/evitfees21.

The EVIT Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) organization, provides financial assistance to students who need help paying program fees. More information on how to apply for foundation assistance will be made available to students before school starts in August.

To start the enrollment process, go to evit.com/enroll.