Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Transportation Staffing topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board hears alarm about bus‑driver shortage; district relies on retired drivers and mechanics
Summary
Board members were told Coventry Local is 'extremely low' on bus drivers, relying on a mechanic who substitutes and a retired driver helping temporarily; staff warned the shortage strains remaining transportation employees.
Board members asked for an update on the district’s transportation staffing March 19 and were told the district is operating with dangerously thin bus‑driver coverage.
A district staff presenter said the district is "extremely low on bus drivers," noting the district currently has one substitute driver (Joe, the mechanic) who must drive when other drivers call off and a retired driver (Linda Danko) temporarily covering an open route. The staff presenter said the shortage has required stretching staff and expressed concern about their mental well‑being.
Board members asked whether borrowing drivers from neighboring districts had been explored; staff said they had called area schools but found other districts were facing similar shortages and could not reliably fill routes. A board member asked for a future update on vehicle replacement and the long‑term strategy for addressing the shortage.
The discussion did not produce a vote or new policy but board members asked staff to return with additional information about replacement plans and the transportation budget timeline.
