By Rachel Slavik, WCCO-TV

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) — When you see gas prices, kids leaving school probably doesn’t come to mind right away. But during MEA weekend, that is the thought process for parents who have travel plans.

The annual Education Minnesota teachers’ conference begins Thursday, which means students will get a four day weekend and many families make vacation plans.

Unfortunately, travelers heading out of town may notice a small increase in gas.

Right now, the state average for regular unleaded is $2.85 a gallon.

You can blame it on the economy, because the weaker the dollar, the less it buys.

So far, the price increase isn’t enough for most travelers to cancel trips altogether.

That’s the attitude now, but if it inches up more, a “staycation” may soon be the better option.