Lawrence Says it has Smoothed Out Busing Issues

The Lawrence School District has mostly fixed the busing issues that caused students, mostly in private schools, to be picked up and dropped off late and spend long periods in transit, according to Superintendent Gary Schall.

Schall said that more than 90 routes have been reviewed with Independent Coach and revisions were implemented as needed. Buses were added, and students were transferred to other buses to streamline routes.

To better conditions for its transportation system — the third most intricate transportation system in New York State, according to Schall, with the transport of 7,500 students to 75 schools — the district is considering prohibiting using taxpayer dollars to transport students from after-school programs, reports the Nassau Herald. Parents also asked the district that the first kids on the bus in the morning be dropped off first after dismissal.

“We will do what is best for every child in the district,” said Dr. David Sussman, president of the board of education.  

According to Schall, transportation issues go beyond Lawrence, citing a shortage of drivers and widespread absenteeism. The district and Independent Coach are seeking to hire more drivers.