Buses may not roll for all next year

Some students who ride the bus in the Jackson County school district might have to find a different way to get to class, if the school board approves a transportation policy change.
The board meets today at 4 p.m. in the district office on Green Street in Marianna.
The state doesn’t fund bus transportation for students who live within two miles of their schools. But for many years, the Jackson County school district has provided the service as a courtesy.
With money getting tight for the district,  that courtesy could change by a mile.
“We’ve been sort of a transportation express for anybody who needs transportation. Now we’re just trying to make it as economical as possible, and continue to serve those who are actually funded for it,” Superintendent Lee Miller said.
The proposed policy change would make the district’s acceptable walking distance one mile from school to the student’s home, and four-tenths of a mile from the student’s home to their assigned bus stop.
Officials don’t have a dollar amount on how much in savings the policy change would create. But they believe those savings will become more clear over time.
“On aspect of saving is wear and tear on the buses. People don’t really think about how expensive it is to keep buses up,” transportation director John Hamilton said. “Every time you stop a bus, you’re applying those brakes. And not only will this save on repairs but down the line, we might be able to reduce some bus routes.”
Not counting the cost of gas and drivers, the cost of purchasing a bus itself is about $100,000 each.
Miller said exceptions to the proposed new policy may be made for various situations, such as heavily trafficked roadways.
“If it’s an emergency situation or a very dangerous situation, we’ll work with the families. But with all the shortfall, we’re trying to do the best we can,” Miller said.
Hamilton said the change will involve a lot of trial and error at first.
“Along the wa,y we’re going to look at the situations and see how to best serve our students and save the district some money,” Hamilton said.
Hamilton will work with schools and area churches in getting the word out about the change.
He said those who have concerns may call Hamilton at the transportation department at 482-1323.
Bust stop locations will be announced later this summer.