Armed guards join kids on school buses through RNC zone; few delays reported

TAMPA - After a long day of sitting in the classroom, some kids who live on Harbour Island expected to wait a little longer on the bus ride home Tuesday.

Parents, especially those who live on the island, were told ahead of time they may need some extra patience this week.  Harbour Island is so close to the convention that security had to shut down one of the only two access roads.

Now, the one way in and out acts as an hour glass during peak times, including right after school.

"There is normally not this many people down in this area," said Steve Meininger, who was waiting for his son, Daniel.

Hillsborough County School District didn't know exactly how much longer it would take to get kids home, but asked for patience.

Some parents of Gorrie Elementary students expected to wait about a half hour longer, but on Tuesday they only waited an extra ten minutes.

To parents, though, ten minutes can feel like hours.

"I think we may be worrisome because we don't know where they are," said Katie Balthrope, who was waiting for her son. "We'll just wait."

One major difference this week is the armed guard that joined the kids on all the buses headed through the convention hassle.

The school says it's just a precaution to ensure the kids' safety.  It also provides parents a little peace of mind.

"I think a school bus would be a pretty lousy target, so I feel pretty safe with the kids on the bus," Balthrope said.