you might want to look at ZACT, or TING...
Both are sprint resellers- You buy the service that you want.

I am not currently using, reselling, or making money from them.
I am looking at them for my kids, when they get a year or 3 older (oldest is 9, NOT buying a cell plan for a 9 year old.)

You would be limited on phones, but could shape rates to your needs.

***going sideways for moment***
I bought a CHEAP CHEAP android phone- ZTE AWE- for 9 year old.
On Black Friday I picked it up for 19.00, no rebate.
Santa gave it to him as a game player/music player/camera.

With no plan, only place it can call is 911.

For $19.00, it was 200 cheaper than an IPOD.

***sideways done***