LUBBOCK, Texas -- When Texas school district officials begin crafting their budgets this summer, most will have their eyes on the gas pump.

Lubbock assistant superintendent Art Martin said next year, the amount budgeted for fuel will increase by about $250,000.

School district officials across the state say they are concerned about the rising cost to transport students.

Some districts didn't budget enough this year to keep up with the increases. They're having to watch usage carefully in the final weeks of school. Other districts had the benefit of foresight from people who would know.

Officials in the Grandfalls-Royalty district in the Permian Basin got advice from board members in the oil business. Superintendent Billy Collins says the member told them to plan on $3 per gallon.

An exemption from state and federal fuel taxes saves 38 cents per gallon. The state reimburses through a formula based on ridership and miles driven. But it does not include travel to extracurricular activities.

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