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Parents tell Pullman board city transit may not meet state school‑transportation protections
Summary
Two public commenters told the board they believe no formal contract exists between the district and city for student transportation and urged the board to ensure state transportation obligations and student protections (background checks, student‑specific routes) are met.
During public comment at the Pullman School District board meeting on Nov. 20, two parents raised concerns about student transportation and district practice.
Natalie Herron said she had obtained records (a FOIA/FOYER request) and an OSPI email indicating that as of June 2023 there was no existing contract or agreement between the district and the city covering student transportation. She argued that state law requires school transportation for students living more than 1.5 miles from their school and said relying on city transit could leave students without the specific OSPI safeguards (driver background checks and student‑specific routes) that district buses provide.
Justin and other staff described a long‑standing partnership with Pullman Transit (cited in the meeting as more than 32 years) and noted the city has been flexible in helping on some routes. Board members acknowledged the issue and said further clarification and documentation would be appropriate; the transportation supervisor detailed operational constraints (220 square miles district area) and driver shortages that complicate service and require continued coordination with Pullman Transit.
Board members and staff agreed to address transportation concerns in upcoming listening sessions and to clarify the legal and contractual status of the partnership as part of the district’s ongoing interlocal discussions with the city.
