Parents warned school bus delays Due To Bus Driver Shortage

Expect and plan for delays in school bus service this fall

MPS, along with 80% of school districts across the nation, is facing a serious shortage of bus drivers. The driver shortage started as many as five years ago, but has been made worse by the COVID-19 pandemic. MPS currently reports the needs for 50 more bus drivers in order to be able to provide timely bus service. 

As a result, as students head into classes this fall, it is likely they will experience challenges with busing. Students could experience some route delays that may result in them being late to school on some days. Families should also be aware that buses will be routed to be filled, so social distancing will not always be possible.

MPS is encouraging families who can transport their students on their own to do so or to arrange transportation with friends and neighbors. MPS is asking if families can opt out of bus transportation for this school year, to indicate that on this form.

Additionally, MPS will again offer travel reimbursements to families who are able to transport their students to and from school.

Families are also encouraged to use Here Comes The Bus to track their child’s yellow school bus. Here Comes The Bus is an app that allows families to view the location of their child’s school bus and receive notification when the bus is nearing the bus stop. The app can be used on a computer, tablet or smartphone. 

For more information on what families can do to prepare for late buses and what to do if their student misses school, please see our Frequently Asked Questions.