Chandler Unified School District faces bus driver shortage as parents demand action on transportation issues

Chandler Unified School District (CUSD) is facing significant challenges in its transportation department, as highlighted during the Governing Board Regular Business Meeting on January 15, 2025. School bus driver Gary Bancheck addressed the board, revealing a drastic decline in the number of drivers, from approximately 250 to fewer than 180 over the past eight years. This shortage has led to the cancellation of numerous bus routes, placing additional burdens on parents and students.

Bancheck urged the board to take immediate action to improve driver retention and recruitment, suggesting that the district should adopt a competitive wage plan similar to that of the Tolleson School District. He emphasized the need for a collaborative effort among human resources, transportation management, and drivers to create a continuous improvement plan aimed at retaining staff and ensuring reliable transportation for students.

The meeting also featured public comments from parents, including Lisa Calderon, who expressed gratitude for the newly elected board members and highlighted the importance of representation within the school system. She acknowledged the challenges faced by the transportation department, particularly delays that affect families, and called for continued support for the safety and well-being of students.

Leslie Falcone, another parent, raised concerns regarding a recent change in start times for Arizona College Prep Middle School, which shifted from 7:45 AM to 9:00 AM. She argued that this decision was made without adequate input from parents and stakeholders, complicating logistics for families with working parents. Falcone pointed out that the change would result in students finishing school later in the day, potentially impacting their after-school activities and homework schedules.

The discussions during the meeting underscored the pressing need for the Chandler Unified School District to address transportation issues and engage with the community to ensure that decisions reflect the needs of families. As the district moves forward, the implications of these discussions will be critical in shaping the future of student transportation and overall educational experience in Chandler.