Charles City School Bus Routes Get Further Review, Must Get More Drivers, Too

While bus routes in the Charles City School District are getting further review for need and efficiency, they also need to get more bus drivers.

In May, the School Board approved changes that would eliminate one morning shuttle and three afternoon shuttles, trim about $56,000 in operating expenses, and create more efficiency. However, during their meeting this week, the Board dove deeper into those proposed changes.

Director of Operations Jerry Mitchell told the Board that many of the proposed changes were driven, in part, by a shortage of bus drivers, an issue not specific to Charles City.

After a lengthy discussion, the Board instructed Mitchell to revisit those routes, especially for Washington Elementary, a school more “remote” when compared to Lincoln Elementary and the Middle School/High School, which are closer in proximity to each other.

New Superintendent Brian Burnight noted that the issue requires a balancing act.

Burnight added that in reviewing those bus routes, distance and safety for students must factor into the equation.