Grand Rapids Schools address bus schedule changes after state inspections

In a recent Grand Rapids Public Schools (GRPS) Board meeting held on March 3, 2025, concerns regarding bus scheduling and communication were at the forefront of discussions. Parents have been expressing frustration over frequent bus switches and changes in pick-up times, particularly in the past month.

The issue stems from mandatory inspections conducted by the Michigan State Police, which require the inspection of approximately 20 buses daily. When a bus is pulled for inspection, a substitute bus is deployed, often with little notice. This has led to confusion and delays, as families have had to adapt to sudden changes in their transportation schedules.

Superintendent discussions highlighted that these inspections, which concluded last week, were an unusual winter occurrence this year, deviating from the typical summer schedule. Board members acknowledged the challenges faced by families and emphasized the importance of communication during such transitions. They noted that while they strive to keep parents informed through tools like ZPass and robocalls, there is room for improvement in preemptively notifying families about potential disruptions.

Looking ahead, the board committed to enhancing communication strategies for future inspections, aiming to better prepare families for any changes. This proactive approach is expected to alleviate some of the stress experienced by parents and students alike.

In addition to transportation issues, the meeting also covered various administrative matters, including the adoption of budget amendments for the general fund, special revenue fund, and debt retirement fund, all of which passed unanimously.

As the meeting concluded, board members invited the community to engage further during an upcoming informal "Coffee with the Board" event, encouraging open dialogue about district matters. This initiative reflects the board's commitment to fostering a collaborative relationship with the community, ensuring that voices are heard and concerns addressed.