School Bus Petition

Hundreds of Henderson residents sign a petition to reverse a decision made by the school board this year. Tonight that petition was presented to the board. The school district announced before the year began that students who live within a mile of South Heights, East Heights and Jefferson schools would forfeit bus privileges and must find their own way to school. Parents have been riled up ever since..now one mother is doing something about it. When Jackie Turner, a mother of two, got the notice in the mail that her sons would have to walk to school..or get a ride.. "I thought theyre not serious about this" Her sons, only in kindergarten and second grade arent allowed to walk anywhere without parental supervision-- let alone hike nearly a mile to school. And shes not the only parent with a problem. "Theres people out there without a car, I know two people who just lost their jobs." The school board initially cut the bus routes to save money-- but turner says the buses still pass her street everyday. She went door to door in Henderson-- and collected more than 500 signatures on a petition to reverse the school boards decision... "I would like you to reconsider." In addition to the signatures Turner also got a letter from the governor and a list of sex offenders. Turner says it isnt fair that only a few of the schools have the bus restrictions-- board members didnt delve into the issue for long, but responded to turners concerns. "After checking we are in compliance" Theyll take the next few weeks to consider her findings and discuss the issue at next months meeting. But if turner doesnt hear what she wants.Shes going to find another way to make a difference. "Im not going to stop until they change it. I dont care what Ive got to do" According to Hendersons director of transportation, they were well within the law when they made the decision. He says the consolidated bus routes were also in effort to become a more effiecient school system.