During a recent government meeting, a significant discussion emerged regarding the scheduling of middle school hours, particularly in the context of ongoing challenges related to busing since the COVID-19 pandemic. A board member expressed concern that middle school students are currently attending school for longer hours than their high school counterparts, attributing this discrepancy to the complexities of the busing system.
The board member emphasized that busing logistics should not dictate educational schedules, arguing that the focus must remain on what is best for students. They highlighted the promise of a one-tier bus schedule, which has not materialized, resulting in a three-tier system that complicates timely transportation. The member noted the absence of electric buses, which were also promised, and reported persistent delays in bus arrivals, with one bus being over 25 minutes late daily throughout May.
The discussion underscored the impact of these scheduling issues on students, particularly those facing anxiety and other challenges. The board member called for accountability from the transportation providers and suggested exploring alternative solutions to improve the situation. They stressed the importance of prioritizing students' needs, advocating for a system that fosters better relationships and support within the school environment.
Following this discussion, the board moved on to approve the minutes from the previous meeting, with no corrections or comments noted. The meeting continued with announcements from the board president and vice president, indicating a structured approach to addressing the concerns raised.