Raising money by selling school bus ads

HUTTO, Texas (KXAN) - A plan discussed since December by Hutto Independent School District is about take shape when its school buses display advertising on their sides.

Officials say it's the first school district in Central Texas to install the ads on buses as a way to raise additional funds in a time of budget cutbacks.

Six ads kick off the campaign. The Mansions at Star Ranch, a townhome and apartment complex, was the first to secure the moving billboard space. The company has committed to run one ad for the rest of the school year.

Other advertisers include Cost Cutters, which has five ads running; A+ Federal Credit Union will begin its campaign next week.

“"Hutto ISD is taking the bull by the bull by the horns with respect to funding our schools,” Superintendent Doug Killian said. “School bus advertising is just the first visible example. Thanks to our advertisers for stepping up and aiding our schools. We are open to any innovative ideas for both the businesses and community members.”

Forty-three spaces are yet for sale at a starting cost of $60 per month whereby 70 percent of all advertising revenue goes back to Hutto ISD.

To find out specifics on ad sizes and to purchase space contact Emily Boswell, HISD public information officer, at 512-759-3008 or e-mail Emily.boswell@hutto.txed.net . Another resource is Alpha Media at 214-432-1813 or visit the website .