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A Message from Superintendent Pero: Bus Driver Shortages

The Pittsford Central School District continues to face challenges with bus transportation due to a shortage of drivers that is impacting morning, afternoon, and late bus runs. Recent cancellations have affected families, and the District is actively working to improve communication and ensure timely notifications for canceled runs.

Here are some key factors playing a role in this situation:

  • Recent absences, particularly due to medical reasons, have led to the cancellation of some bus runs.
  • The District has added 25 new drivers in the last two years but has seen a near equal number retire.
  • The shortage is expected to worsen in the winter months and flu season, increasing the potential for delays and cancellations.

In addition to a shortage of drivers, the District is also challenged with a growing number of requirements for student transportation, including:

  • 321 bus trips are made daily, serving both elementary and secondary schools.
  • Bus drivers currently handle 39 out-of-District routes and are legally required to provide transportation to approximately 80 different out-of-District locations, if requested.
  • The District is legally required to provide transportation for homeless students which currently involves additional routes to Rush-Henrietta, Rochester, and Penfield.
  • The contract transportation budget has increased from $200K to $800K to cover the additional out-of-District routes.

The District is grateful for the dedication of current drivers and staff who have been stepping in where necessary.

Below is an overview of What Parents/Guardians Can Do to help mitigate this challenge:

  • Stay Updated: If a bus route is canceled, parents/guardians will receive a notice via email, text message, and the StopFinder app, including the bus number and any delays.
  • Waiting at Home: If your child is left at home in the morning, please contact the Transportation Department by calling 267-1480 and selecting option 1. The department may be able to deploy a later bus after morning routes are completed.
  • After-School Bus Cancellations: After-school and athletic bus runs may also be canceled. Notifications will be sent via email if this occurs.
  • Carpool or Drive: If possible, driving your child or arranging a carpool can help ease the burden on the bus system.

Finally, recruitment efforts are frustrating. Despite successful efforts to recruit 25 new drivers over the past two years, the District remains short-staffed. If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a bus driver, visit the District's Support Services Openings and Applications page for more information.

The District appreciates your patience and understanding as it navigates these challenges, and is committed to improving transportation services for all families. Thank you for your continued support!