ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR)– The Roanoke City School Board says they may have found a new way to tackle the ongoing transportation issue, and it all comes down to timing.

Leaders are now examining the possibility of staggering the bell schedule for the upcoming school year.

CEO of Roanoke City Public Schools, Chris Perkins says this school year a work group was created–made up of principals, parents, bus drivers, and board members– to come up with a possible solution to the ongoing transportation issues.

“We looked at a staggered school schedule of start and dismissal times,” said Perkins.

The proposal has seven elementary schools starting at 7:30 a.m., and ten others at 8 a.m.

High schools and other programs would begin at 8:30 a.m., and middle schools at 9 a.m.

Perkins says changes like these could reduce delays at the bus stop, optimize routes, and improve student safety while heading to and from school.

One parent, a part of the workgroup, spoke at the meeting.

“Last year my middle schooler missed most if not all of his first period riding the bus. This year he had the same issue. His first period is algebra,” said Jennifer Wingo.

Wingo adds she had to arrange her own transportation to take her child to school.

There were no parents in attendance against it. Although, during the December meeting parents shared their concerns about the change in schedule and how it would affect morning routines or parents and their children.

After the presentation, many board members shared their thoughts about the proposal.

“I know it’s not going to be a convenience to everyone, but I appreciate taking into consideration the families, teachers, students, and the bus drivers as well,” said Natasha Saunders.

Superintendent Verletta White also weighed in on the conversation.

“We understand the complexities related to arrival and dismissal so we want to give our families lead time,” said White.

The board did not vote at the end of the meeting.

Perkins says it’s up to the school board to make a decision by the first meeting in June if they will change the bell schedule. At that June meeting, the school board says they want to hear from all parents to make sure they are accommodating any concerns.

The school board says the proposed changes would only be a 15-minute change to start and end times.