During a recent government meeting, significant discussions centered around the current state of school bus routes and driver staffing, addressing public concerns about service changes and safety.

Officials confirmed that the district currently operates 28 bus routes, with one being provided free of charge due to a routing error. However, there has been a reduction of four regular education routes compared to the previous year, raising concerns about overcrowding as some students reportedly lack space on buses. The district is actively reviewing its routing logistics to address these issues.

A key point of contention has been the perception that drivers have been terminated; however, officials clarified that there have been no terminations, only layoffs, and that the district is in the process of hiring additional drivers. Currently, there are 33 drivers employed, with ongoing recruitment efforts to bolster staffing.

Public comments have highlighted safety concerns regarding walking routes for students, particularly in neighborhoods deemed hazardous. Officials acknowledged the need to reassess hazard zones, emphasizing that safety evaluations will consider not only traffic conditions but also the proximity of registered sex offenders.

The meeting also touched on the implementation of a new system to better manage student eligibility for bus rides, as it was noted that over 50 students currently riding are not eligible for transportation. This situation has contributed to overcrowding, and officials are working to communicate eligibility criteria to families before enforcing any restrictions.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to improving transportation logistics and ensuring student safety while addressing community concerns.