Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Transportation topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board weighs earlier proposal to shift elementary dismissal times to reduce late buses
Summary
District staff presented Rightway’s proposal to adjust bell times toward a three‑tier routing model that would extend some elementary end times (proposed 3:45–3:50) to create 40–45 minute spacing between levels and eliminate transfers that cause long afternoon rides; the board requested more data and cost implications, especially for Fair Park.
District transportation staff described persistent afternoon bus lateness tied to a shuttle/transfer model as the primary problem shaping a proposed bell time change.
Assistant Superintendent Lenny Hansen said the current shuttle arrangement (Silverbrook to Badger transfers) lengthens rides for many students, particularly those in the southern part of the district. “That results in students being late and staff members having to stay late every day,” Hansen said, describing delays that can push some staff supervision duties close to 4:00 p.m.
Rightway’s proposal would create more separation between middle‑tier and elementary dismissal times so a single driver can run three efficient tiers of routes. The administration initially modeled an elementary end time of 3:50 (moving from 3:30) and has since explored a 3:45 option to reduce the family and childcare impact. Hansen said that some southern routes (Jackson area) could be run without a shuttle under the proposed routing, shaving 15–20 minutes off some long rides.
Board members expressed concerns about child care, community activities and equity across schools. Fair Park — which currently begins earlier than other elementary schools — presents a particularly complex case; administration estimated aligning Fair Park with other elementary schools could add the cost of approximately one bus (~$58,000–$60,000 annually) and possibly more depending on routing. The administration will return with detailed route counts, the number of affected students and precise cost estimates prior to any action.
No formal vote was taken; the board directed staff to present refined options and cost impacts at a future meeting.
