I feel like i am wasting my parents' money by going to boarding school.?

first my grandparents split tuition with my mom so its 10000 for her. but that is only for one semester. i didnt think that was too bad even tho its still alot of money. but then i find out im gonna have to get 2 more snowboards (snowboard academy) plus all my gear and such. is there a cheaper way to purchase gear not used? how much should my mom be making a year so i know she can afford this?