The first time I heard about it, I wasn't too sure how I felt about it. But now, I think it's a great thing!

I’m talking about ads on school buses. So far they are only available in a few states, but they have been a big help to budget crippled school districts.

School budgets have taken huge hits, and it can be challenging for some districts to pass budgets that are filled with unfunded mandates, The money generated by school bus ads could possible help alleviate school tax increases, at least that it is the hope. Theses days school districts are seeing cuts in their budgets, which translate back to the students. Many valuable programs have been cut, or made into “Pay to play” systems that not every student can afford to participate in. These hardships have forced school districts to look outside the box, and come up with creative solutions. Advertising on school buses is one.

The school bus ads, for example, will include the school name. There are about about 150 buses in New Jersey, Tennessee, Texas and Arizona signed up to display ads. About 65 percent of the money spent on the school bus signage will go to the participating schools. That 65 percent can be the difference between the Spring Musical or Winter Wrestling!

Not just anyone can place an ad on a school bus, The ads are highly vetted to be sure that they are appropriate and school districts have the final say on each ad. Appropriate ads can be a win -win for the everyone, both the students, the public and the schools. Anything that makes educating kids easier has got to be a plus!