This is a tough situation. I feel for a parent who lost their job. I don't feel so much for a parent who can't (or chooses not to) keep track of their bills. Sounds like this parent didn't believe you that fees were really a requirement. I collect a lot of fees in May from seniors who didn't believe me that I would keep track of it and they wouldn't be allowed to walk. Last week I waived fees for a kid who has worked hard, done every fundraiser, but his parents are broke. Another kid who didn't do any work, only showed up half the time, never did a fundraiser, mom was a thorn in my side, she gave me a sob story but I didn't back down and they ended up paying (I hope the check doesn't bounce).

That said, I know there's a 50/50 chance if a parent goes to admin about band fees the admin will let them graduate anyway. I do my best to convince the parents to pay, but this is the last thing I can hold over their heads and it isn't consistently enforced if it gets past my level.