The William Penn School District board approved a transportation contract at the July 28 meeting after members raised persistent complaints about First Students performance, including late buses and blocked phone numbers for district staff. Several directors said they want the administration to pursue alternative vendors and to build more competitive solicitation into future procurement.

The motion to approve the transportation contract (effective 07/01/2025 through the indicated period) was moved and seconded and carried by voice vote; the contract remains subject to solicitor review. Board members said the district has logged widespread service problems, described drivers arriving late or students waiting for extended periods, and cited a high-profile incident reported in the news involving a driver.

Why it matters: Student transportation affects safety and daily attendance. Directors said they cannot start a school year without service but urged the administration to do more due diligence, explore other providers, and make the district more attractive to bidders.

Supporting details: Board members and staff discussed the difficulty of finding other bidders for transportation contracts, noting that small, unprofitable routes can deter operators. The board asked Director Dean and staff to pursue options and to report back with possible vendors and contract terms. Administration said clauses exist that allow the district to exit the contract if necessary.

Ending: The contract was approved to ensure service continuity; board members asked for a written report on vendor performance and the solicitation strategy before the next school year begins.