Waterford District Cancels Bus Routes Amid Driver Shortage

The Waterford School District is canceling specific bus routes this week to address a shortage of drivers. The changes took effect on Monday, marking the start of a new transportation schedule for students.

The district stated in a statement that the goal is to keep the rotation of cancellations temporary. It aims to restore full service once newly hired drivers complete required training. The administration also said its team is optimizing route designs to improve efficiency.

Local parents have voiced dissatisfaction with the temporary measure. Sarah Dalton, a parent in the district, said the changes forced her to completely rearrange her schedule from Monday through Friday. She noted she must arrive at her office late and leave early to ensure she can drop her child off and pick her up daily.

Dalton explained that she cannot rely on the bus because the district has not provided a consistent drop-off location or time. She said she cannot leave her child unattended for an unknown duration. The parent argued that the options currently offered are not acceptable and that the district needs to make education accessible for everyone.

Dalton called for the district to take accountability and prioritize student education. She emphasized the need for the school board to understand the impact of the current plan on families. The district confirmed the changes are intended to be a stopgap until more bus drivers are hired.

The school district provided the cancellation schedule to local media. Parents are currently following the rotating list of suspended routes until the staffing shortage is resolved.