D113A Bus Drivers Plead for Public's Voice on Transportation Outsourcing

School bus drivers for District 113-A have their routes memorized. They know each student who plods onto the bus—by name, even.

That's something you don't necessarily see when just any driver is behind the wheel of the bus that carts your child to and from school each day, they say. The group is asking parents to speak to the importance of keeping transportation in-house, as the Board of Education mulls the possibility and affordability of outsourcing the service. 

The board has received three bids, and two different school bus companies up for consideration. The district employs 21 people for its student transportation services, and leases the buses used.

Board President Cindy Kelly has said the district is considering the option as a way to offset cuts in state funding.

A shift in bus service would mean changes for students, said bus driver Amanda Samanich. Many of the bus drivers have been with the district for 20 or more years, she said. 

"They wouldn't have a routine driver. They'd have different bus numbers," she said. "It's a lot of inconsistency for the kids."

It's uncertain what would happen to the department's employees, if the board decides to go with an outside provider. 

"Our primary concern is the safety and well-being of your children," the bus drivers wrote in an email to Patch.

A presentation on the bids will take place at the board's Feb. 19 meeting, at 7 p.m. at Old Quarry Middle School. Samanich was told the drivers will know their future employment status as of March 1.

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