Getting MORE than what you pay for?

I understand that under the shadow of SB 165, families have a right to opt out of making any kind of financial contribution to a public school program. I get that. What irritates me is people who want 'premium service' without having to pay a dime for it. And by 'premium service' - I don't mean just doing my job as best I can - every single one of my students deserves that no matter what they contribute monetarily. I'm not even talking about people who can afford to pay but choose not to - I've already accepted that as an inevitable outcome. I'm talking about people who want to be pampered for free - people who feel they have the right to make special requests, especially ones that cater more to the students preference, than any kind of real need.

For example - let's say you are a school basketball coach. Under state law, you have to allow students to play, and supply them with anything they might need (except maybe athletic shoes and socks) free of charge. Now imagine that a parent sends you an e-mail saying.

Dear Mr. Coach

We are writing to request that you reassign Bobby a new basketball jersey. The one you gave him is used, and he says it has an unpleasant smell. Also, it seems that none of the standard sizes fit his unique frame - he just looks kind of funny in the one he's wearing. Can you have one made that will fit him better? Thank you for your concern in this matter.

Sincerely, Nancy Needy

That's the kind of craziness that I'm talking about, and yes I have students/families like that. In fact, it was an e-mail like that one that prompted me to write this post.

I haven't responded yet. I think I'll wait until tomorrow - when I've had a chance to cool off a bit.