Czech Student Visa application for US student - advice/help?

I have been in the process of applying for a student visa for my semester abroad in Prague, but it has proved very difficult, as accurate information seems hard to come by. I now need to have my application expedited, and the Czech website offers a 155 dollar fee for "faster processing", but I am wondering exactly what this means, because I need the visa within two weeks. Lastly, I was wondering whether my application can be submitted by proxy; i.e. a family member shows up at the consulate and submits my application for me. I think that I have all the necessary materials though, finally. Thanks in advance