The County School Board has called a special Dec. 28 session on future plans for its bus program - in the wake of a tragic accident involving a bus operated by a private firm.
The contract with Durham School Services expires at the end of the school year.
Lee McDade, assistant superintendent, said the school system has enjoyed a good relationship with Durham - until the Nov. 21 wreck in Brainerd in which six Woodmore Elementary School students were killed.
Officials said Durham would be able to reapply for the contract, but they would also be looking at other options.
One idea would be to allow private bus contractors to have more than one route. Some school bus routes are still operated by individuals under the old system, but they are allowed only a single route.
Also at the Dec. 28 meeting there will be a conference call with the search firm that is seeking candidates for school superintendent.
And there will be further discussion of the priority list for new school buildings or additions.
The board was told that Harrison Elementary School is in deplorable condition, including sewage backups, dilapidated windows and toilets that don't work.
Backers of a new school for the Chattanooga School for the Liberal Arts were also at the session.
There was also a moving tribute to the children who died in the bus crash.
Board member Karitsa Mosley Jones, a Woodmore graduate, read an emotional statement.
Interim Supt. Kirk Kelly and Board Chairman Steve Highlander also spoke of the hardest night they ever endured.
Dr. Highlander said he was at the central office when news came of the crash on Talley Road. He said he was there within 15 minutes. Then he spent the night at the hospital helping to comfort the families, while praying with many of them. He said he dealt with many of the grieving grandparents.
Supt. Kelly, who was there within 10 minutes, told of the sorrowful scene as well.
A moving meditation was by David Carpenter, interim principal at Brown Middle School.
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by four Brown Middle School students.