News 12 first at five, April 30, 2008

Augusta, GA---"I am very upset about it. I'm almost at a loss for words," said Jacquelyn Anderson.

Anderson is learning that pain at the pump may be driving the Richmond County school system toward a possible 4 day school week.

"That is something that will among other things be considered or looked at," said James Thompson who is deputy school superintendent.

"That's gonna put another wrench in a lot of parent's schedule," said Jacquelyn. She has an 11 year old of her own, and she is convinced this school of thought will spell anger for parents.

"I still have to pay taxes, I still have to pay high gas prices regardless of what they're doing…it's inconveniencing me," said Jacquelyn.

Even still, school officials say they have to do something to take on high fuel prices.

"The cost has doubled and almost tripled over the last 4 or 5 years in our budget," said Thompson.

It's partly about rolling back the number of hours buses spend on the roads. What used to be $400,000 is now 1 million dollars a year to fill up, but there are no intentions of testing anything out just yet without doing a little homework first.

"Oh no no, there's gone be a lot of research...a lot of input…a lot of persons contacted…a lot of input from several areas," said Thompson.

"At the expense of the children, and the welfare of the children I don't think that's appropriate," said Jacquelyn.

So, what lies ahead? "What we gotta do, and how we do it hasn't been arrived at yet, but we have to do something," said Thompson.

One thing is certain…students would still have to meet 180 days. The move would mean a longer school day and longer school year. It is just an option at this time. School officials say they have to consider all their options. It will require board approval.