Parents who are willing to drive their children to and from school could receive up to $300 monthly ($3,000 for the school year) from the School District as part of the solution to the bus driver shortage.
The School District is also offering an alternative. Families can get $150 a month ($1,500 for the school year) transporting their children to school in the morning and utilizing the school bus service in the afternoon.
Those parents interested to enroll in the transportation options can click here.
According to a report by 6abc.com, Superintendent Dr. William Hitte apologized for the inconvenience that this situation is causing to families. “We realize that this driver shortage has very real consequences for our students, families and staff, and we sincerely apologize for these service disruptions,” said Superintendent Dr. William Hite in a letter on Tuesday.
Hite also said the district is working with SEPTA in order to provide student fare cards to children who are eligible for bus, van or cab services. They are also projecting to expand the fare cards for adults to help families who do not drive.
The Superintendent said the challenges they face in getting drivers include a nationwide shortage, a substantial number of resignations and retirements.
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The Philadelphia education leader explained that transportation operations have been affected more than they had anticipated for the return to school.
A situation expanded
The bus driver shortage has also prompted strategies from school districts across the Philadelphia region. The Glassboro School District in New Jersey sent a letter home to parents on Friday saying the high school and intermediate school will begin dismissing 45 minutes earlier than usual.
Superintendent Dr. Mark Silverstein said the district is understaffed by eight drivers, with some resignations taking place right before the start of the school year.
In Delaware, the EastSide Charter School also announced an incentive for parents to drive their children to school.
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