Parents of students in Jefferson County Schools are digesting what it will mean to fork over $100 next year for kids to ride the bus to neighborhood schools, or $150 to get to option schools.
Because of a shrinking budget, the Jefferson County Schools Board of Education for the first time is imposing a tranportation fee next year.
The plan was made official in a 4-1 vote to approve the 2011-12 school budget.
Lynn Setzer, executive director of communications services for the district, said adding a fee means some bus routes can be saved, although the previously announced closing of Martensen and Zerger elementary schools does eliminate some routes.
Setzer said no driver layoffs are planned at this time. However, she added, “That could change as we get into the next school year and see how many kids are riding the bus.”
The new fees will be due at registration; students will be given a pass to display when they board the bus.
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