Prince William County Schools had to notify parents Nov.16 that buses would be late picking up their children and returning them after school due to the number of bus drivers who took sick leave that Friday.
The district employs 775 bus drivers, including 66 senior drivers who serve as permanent substitutes.
“When our combined number of driver shortages and daily absentees exceed 66, we have to find creative ways to get all students to and from school,” Director, Communication Services Philip Kavitz said. “In some cases drivers must do double routes, which can produce delays.”
While social media perpetuated the idea that these PWCS employees were participating in a job action, Kavitz blames the shortage on the fact that the school division is very selective about the bus drivers they hire.
“We have high standards to ensure that we hire and train only those who can safely transport our students,” Kavitz said. “Many of those who apply do not meet those standards; for those who do, training is critical and takes time.”
He explained that drivers are hired on a 180-day contract and may seek other employment opportunities over the summer. When they do not return at the beginning of the school year, replacements must be found and trained.
According to PWCS, the entire application process is intensive and reflects classroom training, 40 to 60 hours of road training, and stringent background checks.
“This entire process takes two to three months on average, but reflects our commitment to safety,” he said.
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