Calgary school bus driver shortage could last into summer
Posted Dec 14, 2022 10:25 am.
Last Updated Dec 14, 2022 10:26 am.
The Calgary Board of Education (CBE) says a province-wide school bus driver shortage is hindering their ability to transport students.
According to the Alberta School Bus Contractors’ Association, there are 146,000 schoolchildren and their parents that rely on school buses to go to and from school.
This is due to a shortage of certified drivers, with areas in the province reporting up to 30 per cent fewer drivers than what is required.
As of Wednesday, the CBE says 34 of its 603 routes are currently without a regular driver.
“The CBE recognizes the impact this is having on families. We work together with the transportation providers to provide timely communication, so families are notified of delays. Despite their best efforts, there are times when buses are delayed or unable to run for the day,” the CBC said in a statement. “Schools are also able to keep students at school when there are delays in pick-up at the end of the day.”
In response to the disruption, the CBE says they’ve reduced transportation fees by 20 per cent for this school year.
In addition, the board is using spare, floater, and other drivers with assigned routes. But given the nature of the shortage, there is an increased chance of delays, and it’s anticipated it could last into the summer.
“We continue to explore solutions with our service providers to ensure students are able to access their school, and in so doing, minimize the impact on students, families, and school communities,” the statement read.
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While the board continues to explore potential solutions, they’re also urging families to have a backup plan for late or cancelled buses.
The board has expanded its number of service providers, including using Calgary Transit and other smaller providers to deliver relief.
Routes with low ridership have been reassigned to “specialized transportation service providers” with small buses that have additional capacity.
The CBE also says if anyone is interested in a job as a school bus driver, please connect with our transportation service providers directly for more information.
More information can be found on its website.
