During the recent Hampden-Wilbraham Regional School District School Committee meeting, parents voiced significant concerns regarding ongoing transportation issues affecting their children. The discussions highlighted the emotional and logistical challenges faced by families due to delays and communication gaps with the school bus service.

One parent, John, shared a poignant account of his daughter's anxiety stemming from late bus arrivals, which can leave students waiting for extended periods after a long day at school. He emphasized that such delays not only disrupt students' schedules but also heighten their stress levels, particularly for those with anxiety disorders. John called for improved communication between the school district and transportation services, urging them to recognize the impact these issues have on students' well-being and extracurricular activities.

Another parent, Carissa Casalini, echoed these sentiments, recounting her struggles with the bus service since the school year began. She expressed frustration over the lack of sidewalks in her neighborhood, which forced her child to walk to school without proper transportation. Carissa described the anxiety her middle school child experiences daily, worrying about whether he will make it home on time. This uncertainty has led to disruptions in his learning and emotional distress, as he often feels compelled to seek help from school staff to arrange rides.

Both parents highlighted the broader implications of these transportation challenges, noting that they affect not only students' emotional health but also their academic performance. The committee was urged to prioritize finding solutions to these pressing issues, as they directly impact the community's children during a critical stage of their development.

As the school district continues to address these concerns, the need for effective communication and reliable transportation services remains a top priority for parents, who seek a supportive environment for their children to thrive both academically and emotionally.