During a recent school committee meeting, South Kingstown officials addressed significant transportation challenges following the unexpected passing of long-time bus driver Carol Sandrelli. The school department had to notify families of early morning bus delays due to the emotional impact on drivers and the need to adjust routes. Sandrelli, who served the community for 40 years, was remembered fondly, with over 150 community members expressing condolences on social media.

The meeting also highlighted ongoing issues with the transportation system, particularly with Ocean State Transit, which has faced staffing shortages and software problems. The outdated routing software, VersaTrans, has caused numerous errors in bus routes, leading to delays and confusion for families. Officials acknowledged the need for improvements and expressed a commitment to transitioning to a more reliable system.

Despite the challenges, the first week of school saw some successes, including effective combined bus routes that alleviated previous congestion issues. However, officials emphasized the importance of better communication with parents and the need for Ocean State Transit to enhance its responsiveness.

Looking ahead, the school department plans to revamp its data collection processes to ensure accurate routing and minimize manual adjustments. They are also exploring alternative transportation solutions for students affected by statewide bus service disruptions.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to transparency and accountability, as officials pledged to keep families informed and involved in the ongoing improvements to the transportation system.