Waterford Schools Cut Bus Routes as Driver Shortage Hits

The Waterford School District began canceling specific bus routes on Monday to address a shortage of drivers.

The district stated its goal is to keep these cancellations temporary. It plans to restore full service once newly hired drivers complete required training. The team is also working to optimize route designs for better efficiency.

Parents are adjusting their schedules to accommodate the changes. Sarah Dalton said she must completely rearrange her work week from Monday through Friday.

Dalton explained that she now arrives late and leaves early from her office. She must be available to drop her child off and pick her up every day. She cannot rely on the bus schedule or leave her child unattended for unknown periods.

The district said it is working to make education accessible for all students. Dalton expressed a desire for the district to take accountability. She said the district needs to prioritize students and their education over current operational options.

The district confirmed the changes are meant to be a temporary fix until it hires more bus drivers.