Price of diesel fuel drives decision to modify school bus routes in Smyth County

Budget problems and Middle East tensions sending fuel prices soaring are now affecting the weekday school travel for students in Smyth County.

Superintendent Brad Haga issued a letter to parents to inform them of revisions to school bus routes to conserve dollars being spent on diesel, resulting in more children using one bus, different bus numbers, and changing arrival and departure times.

Haga explained figures have been checked and the budget line item for fuel cannot sustain a full fleet of buses and the distance they cover at current diesel prices.

The executive asked for patience but also reminded parents that bussing is a free service and is a privilege, not a right under state law.

(IMAGE: Property of Pexels / Miguel Rivera)