30+ years ago I got into photography when I joined the school newspaper and yearbook staff. They had the good old Pentax K1000 with a 50mm f2.0 lens that they would check out to the photographers. Good film camera for a beginner. But my folks saw that I enjoyed it and it was part of school, even if I wasn't getting a grade for it. My birthday showed up and so did a really nice USED Nikon F2. I was in heaven. (And I still have that good old Nikon)

If you are interested in photography (since is sounds like you are in high school) take a look at joining the yearbook staff. I lived with my camera around my neck in school and used it daily. Besides, parent are more likely to come up with money if it is for "school". I know, my lovely wife and I raised three that made it through school and out to the real world. Good luck.