Area schools are making preparations for Gustav, in case it causes problems that will interrupt the normal routine next week.

Because Monday is Labor Day, school is not in session. However, all of the school officials we spoke with from east Mississippi and west Alabama say they are waiting to hear from emergency responders Monday before determining whether or not classes will resume Tuesday.

"I think what parents need to know is that we do have a plan in place," said Lauderdale County superintendent Randy Hodges. "It's a good plan. And we'll put safety number one and we will not go to school Tuesday if we think it is any danger at all."

"It looks like the city is going to open the emergency operation center on Monday and the district will be represented at that time. We'll know something after then."

In the meantime, the state superintendent of education is recommending all districts in the southern part of the state declare a state of emergency. Dr. Hank Bounds said that will help the district avoid delays in getting repairs if property is damaged by the storm.

Hodges said school districts, including his, are now preparing to help with evacuations if needed.

"Our school district has made a commitment to provide six buses, six drivers and resource officers on each bus, and we're to go to George County Middle School," said Hodges. "And that's where we'll be on standby in case they have to evacuate on the coast. And we're to bring them back to Meridian to the Frank Cochran Center. So, we do have a plan in place."

Hodges said the plan a directive from the state level down, the result of one of the many lessons learned from Hurricane Katrina.