During a recent school board meeting, community members voiced urgent concerns regarding transportation challenges faced by students from the Bangla Town neighborhood attending Cass Technical High School. Multiple speakers highlighted the financial burden and safety issues associated with current transportation options, urging the board to consider implementing a dedicated school bus service.

Lindsay Madsen, a local youth worker, emphasized that many students struggle to afford transportation, with families spending between $200 to $400 monthly. She pointed out that overcrowded vans often lack safety measures, raising serious concerns about student safety, especially following a recent violent incident in the area. Madsen called on the board to advocate for a reliable school bus service to ensure students can safely commute to school.

Alumni and current students echoed these sentiments, sharing personal experiences of the financial strain caused by transportation costs. Depita Diaz, a Cass Tech graduate, recounted paying nearly $4,000 over four years for transportation, which could have been better spent on college applications and scholarships. She urged the board to recognize the pressing need for a dependable bus service that would alleviate financial burdens for families and enhance educational access.

Current student Deeparashi Roy highlighted the exorbitant costs of rides, which can reach $400 monthly, and the lack of safety in public transportation options. Tarena Rahman, another student, expressed that a dedicated bus system would not only ease transportation woes but also foster greater educational opportunities for students facing similar challenges.

The board members were urged to take action to address these transportation issues, which have become a significant barrier to education for many students in the community. The discussions underscored a critical need for equitable transportation solutions to support student success and community engagement.