School Bus Delays Driven By Driver Shortage In Bensalem

BENSALEM TOWNSHIP, PA —The Bensalem Township School District has informed parents that it is experiencing some transportation issues.

In a Feb. 9 letter to parents and guardians, Schools Superintendent Samuel Lee and John Steffy, the district's director of business operations, said the issues are being caused by the nationwide shortage of certified school bus drivers and that the staffing shortages are impacting the district's bus transportation system, resulting in occasional delays.

"We understand the inconvenience this causes and assure you that we are taking all necessary steps to resolve the bus and van driver shortage situation as soon as possible," the letter states. "The district would like to thank all our employees in the transportation department for the outstanding job they have done in keeping the department operational despite the staffing shortages."

School officials said they encourage parents to have backup plans of alternative transportation for their child(ren), such as a parent/guardian transporting their child or carpooling.

They said the staffing challenges could result in a worst-case scenario such as the bus being unable to transport your child to and from school for the day.

The bus cancellation would be communicated through Sapphire Notification System and TalkingPoints.

"We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, and we appreciate your understanding and patience as we work to resolve the driver shortage situation," the letter said.

School officials said to reach out to the transportation department or school administration if there are any questions or concerns.

The district is also recruiting new bus drivers. Anyone interested in becoming a bus driver should contact the school district.