If terrorists came in and took the whole school hostage - that would be great news as far as they are concerned

Elaine Tzourtzouklis, Salt Lake Teachers' Association

"That's just what they want."

She said the best place for children to be during the games was at home.

"On Tuesday, many parents came into school and took their children home because they were worried about them.

"It will be better for all of us if the schools are closed. We can make up the days elsewhere, so the children's education will not suffer."

The association made its case at a meeting with the school board on Tuesday night and hopes that the board will agree to its request.

'Knee-jerk reaction'

No decision has yet been made, but previously officials have been reluctant to agree to closures.

Laurel Young, the vice-president of the school board said: "I don't want a knee-jerk reaction. We can do as President Bush has counselled us to do, to go on with our lives."

The winter Olympics will take place over 17 days, with the opening ceremony scheduled for February 8th.

If schools were closed during this time, terms would have to be reorganised so that children could meet the state requirement to have 180 days per year in school.

It is believed that parents from at least two schools near to Olympic venues want the schools to be closed.