Auburn Washburn school district confronts nationwide bus driver shortage with community engagement

The Auburn Washburn School District Board of Education convened on April 21, 2025, to address pressing issues surrounding school transportation, particularly the ongoing shortage of bus drivers. The meeting highlighted the challenges faced by the district and the steps being considered to improve the situation.

Superintendent Michael White opened the discussion by emphasizing the importance of community engagement in decision-making processes. He reassured attendees that the board is committed to addressing concerns raised by parents and families regarding transportation issues. White noted that the shortage of bus drivers is not unique to Auburn Washburn but is a widespread problem affecting school districts across the nation.

The superintendent explained that the district has been managing the bus driver shortage by reallocating maintenance staff to drive buses, which has resulted in longer bus routes and increased travel times for students. He reported that some students are spending over 50 minutes on buses, and the district has had to double bus routes at several schools. This situation has also limited the ability to conduct field trips, as teachers must coordinate trips around available bus drivers.

White provided data indicating that approximately 70% of Auburn Washburn students utilize the bus service, with nearly 40 regular and 15 special education routes operated daily. He noted that state law mandates transportation for students living over 2.5 miles from school, which adds to the district's transportation demands. The board is exploring potential changes to transportation policies, including the possibility of implementing neighborhood stops to improve efficiency and reduce travel times.

The meeting also included discussions about the financial implications of the transportation challenges. White highlighted the rising costs of chartering buses for extracurricular activities, which have doubled in recent years. He mentioned that the district is currently the only one in its classification providing transportation to all students, while many others have implemented limitations or fees for service.

In response to community feedback, the board is considering various options, including staggered start times for elementary and secondary schools, and the establishment of neighborhood stops to streamline bus routes. The superintendent acknowledged the need for further discussions and surveys to gather input from families as the district navigates these transportation challenges.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the board to continue engaging with the community and exploring solutions to enhance the transportation system for Auburn Washburn students. Further updates and discussions are expected in future meetings as the district works to address these critical issues.