Hawaii Students Face Continued Bus Driver Shortages

As school years commence in various regions, significant bus driver shortages continue to cause disruptions. In Hawaii, the Department of Education (DOE) canceled bus services for thousands of students, prompting frustration among families who are now struggling with increased transportation costs. Meanwhile, the Pulaski County School System reported a minor accident involving a school bus that did not injure any students, highlighting the challenges of managing school transportation. In central Illinois, the Rochester school district is proactively addressing driver shortages by implementing incentives for bus drivers, including bonuses and improved communication systems for parents. These issues reflect a broader trend of systemic challenges in school transportation across multiple states. The ongoing shortages have led to calls for accountability and reevaluation of transportation contracts in Hawaii, where the situation has persisted for several years.