School Board explores tiered bussing strategy for 2025-2027 academic years

Caswell County Schools is set to implement a new tiered bus routing system for the upcoming school year, aiming to enhance efficiency and address parent concerns regarding drop-off times. During the Board of Education's regular meeting on July 15, 2025, discussions centered on the logistics of combining elementary and middle school bus routes while keeping high school routes separate.

The proposed changes come in response to feedback from parents, particularly those with middle school students who face challenges with the current drop-off times. The new system is designed to optimize bus capacity, potentially increasing ridership from 2,700 to even higher numbers, as seen in other districts that have successfully implemented similar strategies.

Board members emphasized the importance of clear communication with families about the changes, noting that understanding the rationale behind the new routing could ease concerns. The transportation director highlighted that combining elementary and middle school students on the same buses could significantly improve efficiency, allowing for a more streamlined operation.

While the board did not take formal action during this meeting, they reached a consensus to move forward with planning for the 2026-2027 school year, ensuring that all stakeholders are informed and involved in the transition. The board acknowledged that while change can be difficult, it is necessary for the betterment of the school community and the operational effectiveness of the transportation system.

As Caswell County Schools prepares for these changes, the focus remains on balancing the needs of families with the logistical realities of school transportation, paving the way for a more efficient and responsive system in the years to come.