Framingham Public Schools is set to revolutionize its transportation system by bringing busing operations in-house, a move aimed at enhancing control, safety, and service for students and families. During the Framingham School Committee meeting on November 20, officials outlined the rationale behind this significant shift, emphasizing improved accountability and cost savings.

Ina London, a key presenter at the meeting, highlighted that the transition will allow the district to maintain its own safety standards and driver training, addressing past customer service issues. "We believe this will allow us to have more control over the services," London stated, underscoring the importance of direct oversight in managing routes and student behavior.

The decision to bring busing in-house is also expected to yield financial benefits by eliminating third-party fees, allowing for better resource allocation and long-term savings. London noted that the district is committed to providing competitive pay for drivers, proposing $35 per hour, which positions Framingham as one of the top-paying districts in the area.

Safety and compliance were major themes in the discussion, with plans for rigorous background checks and ongoing professional development for drivers. The district aims to enhance communication with families and improve overall service quality, addressing concerns raised by parents in the past.

As the district prepares for this transition, it has already begun recruiting efforts and developing job descriptions for bus drivers and monitors. The goal is to ensure that all students have reliable transportation to school, with an emphasis on timely arrivals.

The School Committee expressed strong support for the initiative, with members acknowledging the hard work that has gone into planning this transition. "Our number one goal is to make sure as many kids as we can get to school next year, not only get to school, but get there on time," said one committee member, reinforcing the commitment to improving student transportation.

With a target implementation date of July 1, the Framingham Public Schools is poised to enhance its transportation services, aiming for a smoother, safer, and more efficient experience for students and families alike.