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Petersburg school bus driver raises safety, staffing concerns during public comment
Summary
A bus driver told the board the district needs greater on‑the‑job support and protection against recurring incidents; the driver said threats and disruptive behavior on buses are escalating and requested prompt action.
During the public‑comment portion of the March 19 meeting a Petersburg City Public Schools bus driver described repeated safety incidents on routes and asked school leadership for more support.
The driver said the incidents have continued since the last meeting and that bus drivers are often alone on vehicles without timely support. “As soon as I retaliate or do something, I might get bridled up or lose my job because I'm trying to protect myself,” the driver said. “We need help.”
The public comment lasted within the three‑minute public‑comment allotment; the speaker urged the board and administration to provide more on‑the‑job safety measures and supervisory backup for drivers.
No immediate action was taken on the floor during the meeting; the superintendent and staff routinely address public‑safety concerns raised in comment periods by following up with the appropriate departments, and the transcript shows the superintendent acknowledged the comment before the meeting proceeded to scheduled votes.
Next steps: The board did not vote on an item specifically tied to the comment. Staff typically follow up with the speaker and the transportation department to investigate operational and safety concerns raised during public comment.
