District shifts to 3 tier bus model to address driver shortage and improve efficiency

The Hampden-Wilbraham Regional School District has announced a new transportation model aimed at addressing ongoing bus driver shortages while improving efficiency and reliability for the upcoming school year. During the School Committee meeting on April 3, 2025, officials revealed the implementation of a three-tier bus system, which is expected to save the district approximately $335,000 compared to previous transportation costs.

The decision comes in response to a significant decline in the number of available bus drivers, which has been a persistent issue nationwide. A recent study indicated that the U.S. is still down 12% in bus driver staffing compared to pre-pandemic levels, exacerbating the challenges faced by school districts. The new model will reduce the number of buses from 33 to 28, a total reduction of eight buses over the past two years, while still ensuring that all students are transported safely and efficiently.

Key changes in the new schedule include a shift in start times for the schools. The middle school will now begin at 7:35 AM, five minutes earlier than before, while the high school will start at 8:00 AM, a 25-minute delay that aligns better with adolescent sleep needs. Elementary schools will start at 8:55 AM, also a 25-minute delay. This staggered schedule is designed to ensure that buses can complete their routes without leaving students unsupervised after school.

The adjustments aim to maintain instructional hours while minimizing disruption to families and staff routines. The district is committed to finding solutions that work for all stakeholders, including addressing feedback from families regarding start times.

As the district moves forward with this new transportation model, officials are optimistic that it will provide a more reliable service for students and families, while also being financially sustainable in the face of ongoing staffing challenges.