ATTLEBORO - Don't consider it a guarantee, but school officials say it looks like parents who pay for their children to ride a school bus will be able to buy transportation again next year, after all.

School officials warned parents last month that they might have to find other rides to school because there might not be enough room on buses for all of those seeking transportation.

However, an analysis of next year's bus routes based on interviews with current drivers indicates the bus fleet should be able to accommodate paid riders.

The public schools bus those beyond a prescribed distance of their elementary, middle or high schools for free. Those who live closer are allowed to purchase transportation.

The fee is $150 for the first child, with a declining amount for each additional member of the family. School department business manager Marc Furtado said schools will be served by the same number of buses as last year.

There had been some conjecture that fewer buses would be used, prompting the precautionary warning by the school department. Furtado said schools will take some extra time to double-check enrollment figures to make sure there's plenty of room for all who want to ride.

But don't get out your wallet just yet, Furtado said. The schools won't be taking applications until later this month.