Board hears update on bus-driver shortages; staff encouraging community recruitment

Cumberland County school officials reported an ongoing shortage of bus drivers at the Oct. 28 meeting and discussed local recruitment efforts.

Staff said the shortage mirrors a nationwide trend and urged board members to reach out to Transportation Director Martina Martin (referred to in the meeting) and bus drivers to learn whether different incentives or supports would help recruitment and retention. At the district's parent advisory council meeting earlier in the week, staff said at least one parent indicated interest and planned to take the bus-driver test in two weeks; another parent expressed interest in training.

Staff noted the district regularly posts driver openings on its website and that transportation budget lines include funding for open positions; when positions remain unfilled the district must use overtime or double routes and pay accordingly. Board members were asked to help by speaking with drivers and the transportation office to identify what would make the job more attractive locally.

No formal action was taken; staff requested board members' assistance and said additional training opportunities and outreach were being pursued.