Students Prepare For First Day

After a summer of fun in the sun, kids across Green Country are getting ready to head back to school. As NewsOn6.com's Nicole Wiseman reports, a local event is helping some kids go back in style.

The annual Barber Cutt-Off has given haircuts to thousands of kids over the past 16 years. But, stylists say they're giving the kids more than just a free cut, they're helping build confidence.

"I'm getting my hair done," said student Krashika West.

Krashika West is just one of 1,500 students who's heading back to school with a fresh look. It's all thanks to the Barber Cutt-Off at the Hutcherson YMCA. Volunteers say they don't mind the extra work because they're making a difference, one cut at a time.

The kindness of my heart, I have a big heart. When I have time, I'm down here," said volunteer Michael Helms.

As students prepare for their first day, parents should keep a few things in mind.

For starters, Tulsa Public Schools has increased the size of its walk zone for middle and high school students. Last year, anyone living within a mile-and-a-half radius could catch the bus. But, only students living outside a two mile radius can ride this year. The district says that change will save hundreds of thousands of dollars.

The price at the pump isn't just busting Tulsa's budget. Broken Arrow and Jenks have doubled their fuel budgets from last year.

Union is making changes too.

"We are in a deficit situation and we have to close that gap," said Dr. Cathy Burden, Union Superintendent.

Like Tulsa, Union increased the size of its walk zone to save money on fuel. When school starts Thursday, intermediate and high school students who live within a mile-and-a-half radius of school won't be able to catch the bus.

Owasso Public School students head back on Wednesday. They'll have a much smoother arrival. Crews spent the entire summer working on 129th East Avenue. It's set to open just in the nick of time.

Districts across Green Country have made a lot of changes this year. But, kids who spent the day getting new haircuts at the Barber Cutt-Off will be ready for school to begin. You can bet they'll be all smiles when they head back to class.

"My hair's pretty," said West.

Click here for all the information you need to start the school year off right!