D-20 School Board Gets Earful From Parents

The Academy School District 20 School Board met with parents to discuss the possibility of implementing a fee for the use of school buses.

During the public hearing many parents stood firm against the idea, and said the district had not been specific about how the money would be used to benefit students.

The proposal looks to charge 50 cents per student per ride and 60 cents for students enrolled in the choice transportation program.

Fees would not be charged to special education students.

According to information provided by the school district, D-20 spends $6 million to transport 6,500 of 23,000 students. After state reimbursements, district 20 is left with a $4 million dollar balance.

If the fee is approved the district said it would save $700,000 annually.

During Thursday’s meeting the board only listen to what parents thought about the plan. A vote is scheduled for Nov 10th.