During the North Kingstown School Committee meeting on February 20, 2024, a significant concern was raised regarding the transportation challenges for summer school programs. The committee discussed the ongoing difficulties in securing enough bus drivers to meet the needs of students requiring transportation for Extended School Year (ESY) services.

The committee confirmed that they would need to rely on a smaller fleet to provide mandated transportation, highlighting the persistent struggle to find additional busing options. Despite efforts to engage other local bus services over the past few years, the district has faced challenges in securing these resources, which directly impacts student attendance during summer sessions.

The discussion revealed that the primary issue is a shortage of available drivers, rather than a lack of interest from bus companies. This shortage has been a growing concern, as it affects the district's ability to provide essential services to students during the summer months.

As the committee continues to seek solutions, the implications of these transportation issues resonate with families in the community, emphasizing the need for reliable access to educational programs. The meeting underscored the importance of addressing these logistical challenges to ensure that all students can benefit from summer learning opportunities.