We have kids bring in cameras. Some are fortunate enough to have parents buy
them, but we really stress to kids that SLRs are usually hanging around in a
closet somewhere at home or at a relative's house.
I know a few districts that have gone the route of buying and repairing
cameras as well. It doesn't seem to work. These cameras are not disposable.
Also, if the kid brings in a camera from home they are more apt to care for it.
We do have several loaner cameras for special circumtances.
Hope this helps.