South school briefs

Expanded bus service offered - for a fee Students who did not qualify for free busing this year in the Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan School District will have the option of paying a fee to ride in the fall.

The school board approved a plan last week to offer the service as a convenience to families of kids who live so close to school that they haven't been eligible to ride.

Minnesota law says districts must provide transportation for students who live more than 2 miles from their school. For years, the Rosemount district has gone beyond that requirement.

Currently, the district offers free busing to elementary students who live more than half a mile from school, and for secondary students who live more than a mile away.

For students who can't ride now, busing will be offered this fall for a fee of $250 per year. Students from qualifying low-income families would pay $125.

The Lakeville district also expanded fee-for-service busing this spring. This year, the district charged $150 to ride for students who lived less than 2 miles but more than half a mile from school. This fall, even students who live closer to school can buy the service. Lakeville also waives or discounts fees for low-income students.

Applicants sought for gifted council The Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan School District is looking for volunteers to serve on its Gifted and Talented Advisory Council.

The group meets four times during the school year, usually in sessions scheduled from 5 to 6:30 p.m.

Applications are due by June 1. Forms are available at www.district196.org or by calling 651-423-7715.