Bill would force schools to start in September

(Oklahoma City-AP) -- A state lawmaker believes Oklahoma schools could cut energy costs by starting the school year after September 1st. <br><br>Representative Odilia Dank has filed legislation to direct

Thursday, January 30th 2003, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

(Oklahoma City-AP) -- A state lawmaker believes Oklahoma schools could cut energy costs by starting the school year after September 1st.

Representative Odilia Dank has filed legislation to direct the state's 541 school districts to start classes in early September, beginning with the next school year.

The Oklahoma City Republican is a retired classroom teacher and high school counselor. Dank says starting school in September would help reduce a school's exposure to high energy costs while schools try to reduce spending due to revenue shortfalls.

Tulsa schools moved the start of the school year from August 19th to September 3rd this year, saving about $100,000 a week.