The Southport School Committee has decided against paying more for less. The committee considered last spring purchasing a 3/4-sized gasoline-powered school bus. But that is no longer the case. Bids received for the school bus cost more than a traditional-sized bus. “No, we’re not going to pay $20,000 more for a smaller bus,” Alternative Organizational Structure (AOS) 98 Superintendent Bob Kahler said during the Sept. 18 committee meeting. Southport is now seeking bids from three companies: International, Blue Bird and Thomas, for a traditional-sized, gasoline-powered bus. 

 

Besides saving money on a gas-powered bus, Chairman Adam Harkins said more savings would occur from reduced fuel, repairs and maintenance costs. The new bus would be the first gasoline-powered bus for any AOS 98 school. “I’ve heard from other superintendents who have had no problems with their gas-powered buses,” Kahler said.

 

Southport is also sharing its current full-sized bus with the Community School District (CSD). Southport is currently using its mini-bus for daily school bus routes. 

 

In other action, the committee is reviewing its facilities use policy. The committee had its first reading of a possible revision. The committee is still working on guidelines about dogs at large. Southport does not have a leash requirement, so the committee may rely on state dog guidelines for its policy. The overall policy deals with school building and lot use when school is not in session.

 

The committee held an executive session on a personnel issue. The committee took no action following the session. The committee meets next at 4 p.m. Monday, Oct. 16 in the school.