Some Boston Public Schools bus routes affected by low driver turnout

Dr. Carol R. Johnson, Superintendent of the Boston Public Schools, announced that as many as 12 school buses will not be available to transport students this morning because approximately 70 drivers have taken sick or personal days. The nearly 700 bus drivers employed every day include more than 60 backup drivers, which is not enough to cover today's absenteeism. Bus drivers are employed by First Student Inc., the contractor for all BPS transportation, and are not employees of the City of Boston or the Boston Public Schools.

Superintendent Johnson is using the automated telephone calling system to notify families on the affected routes that these buses will not pick up their children today. The shortfall is expected to affect approximately 680 students. Any student who is unable to attend school today because of the cancelled bus route will not be penalized.

"We apologize to families for this disruption and inconvenience," said Dr. Johnson. "When school is open, we rely on our bus drivers to get more than 30,000 students safely to and from school. More than 600 drivers arrived at bus yards early this morning ready to work, but it is very problematic that 70 other individuals stayed home."

District officials said they expect to secure enough additional bus drivers during the day today to ensure adequate coverage for afternoon bus routes, although delays are still likely given the icy road conditions.

Families with questions or concerns about their child's transportation may call the Boston Public Schools Transportation Department, 617-635-9520.