Ozark Schools are facing significant challenges in their transportation department, as highlighted during the recent Board of Education meeting on December 4, 2024. The district is currently experiencing a shortage of bus drivers, which has led to increased ride times and a rise in discipline incidents among students.

At the meeting, officials reported that the district began the school year with 12 fewer drivers than needed, a number that has since increased due to retirements and resignations. On average, the district is down 14 to 16 drivers daily, forcing staff from various departments, including mechanics and administrators, to step in and drive buses. This situation has resulted in a "huge dance" of logistics, with staff members doubling up on routes and teachers volunteering to assist with transportation.

The district is actively seeking solutions to this ongoing issue. Two new licensed drivers have recently started training, and efforts are underway to recruit more staff through job fairs and advertisements. However, the district acknowledges that attracting new drivers is challenging, as many positions remain unfilled despite outreach efforts.

In response to the driver shortage, the district is also reviewing its transportation procedures. This includes eliminating certain bus routes to daycares that have historically been serviced, which is expected to streamline operations and reduce the burden on the remaining drivers.

The board emphasized the urgency of addressing these staffing shortages to ensure that students receive timely transportation and maintain a safe and orderly environment. As the district continues to navigate these challenges, officials remain hopeful that new hires and procedural adjustments will help alleviate the current strain on the transportation system.