Students Asked To Reach Bus Stop Ahead Of Schedule In East Brunswick

EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ – The East Brunswick School District has made many improvements in transportation since the driver shortage disrupted schedules.

Despite all the changes and improvements made, a number of buses are still running late in the morning.

In a bid to ensure students reach classrooms in time, the school district has asked students to reach their designated bus stops 15 minutes ahead of schedule.

“Missing valuable instructional time is unacceptable but we have been working diligently throughout each day and evening to develop solutions that get your children into school on time,” Superintendent Victor Valeski told parents Tuesday evening.

Valeski said the district’s transportation department has “logistically improved” a number of morning bus routes, and due to the many changes, students need to be at their assigned bus stop 15 minutes before their scheduled pick-up time.

“I know this has been a difficult situation for families and I sincerely appreciate your understanding as we work through each day,” the superintendent said.

East Brunswick's transportation woes have been caused mainly after the contracted drivers resigned and the school district was provided with no advance notice. More: Superintendent Provides Update On Busing Issues In East Brunswick

The bus driver shortage is a national issue, affecting school districts across the country. Districts have offered higher compensation, additional benefits, training opportunities and more. However, since the pandemic, many drivers are seeking high-paying private sector jobs.

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