With gas prices nearing $4.00 a gallon, the students and teachers at WCHS are feeling the pinch.

The high gas prices mean students and teachers are spending major portions of their paychecks just to get back and forth from school.

Math teacher, Amy Travis, who drives approximately 100 miles commuting to and from school each day, spends an average of $75-$100 per week on gas.  Travis says something needs to be done to alleviate the burden for drivers.

 “I think the government should step in and help, since they do for everything else,” Travis remarks.

Sophomore, Michael Smedley agrees with Travis.

“I think it’s all a scam, and that the federal government is responsible for the increase,” adds Smedley, who spends nearly $90 a week for gas.         

With the increase in gas prices, many WCHS drivers are changing their habits.  Some have begun carpooling to and from school, while others have nearly eliminated all “fun” driving.

Johnny Lewis, a senior at WCHS, who works a part time job, says very little money is left over from his paycheck after he pays for gas every week.

“I cash my check, get gas, and I’m broke again.” Lewis says.

With gas prices predicated to rise even higher over the next few weeks, and four more weeks of school to go before summer jobs begin, it is unlikely that drivers will have more money in their pockets any time soon.