January 15, 2025
Dear Springdale Elementary Families on Bus 44,
School bus #44, operated by First Student, Inc., experienced significant delays the past two days due to an unexpected series of errors. After the bus was a half hour late yesterday, we were assured things were in place moving forward. Today, the substitute driver assigned to the route had incorrect students get on the bus from a daycare provider, which resulted in some students being placed on the wrong bus. Additionally, the bus became lost en route to Springdale Elementary.
First and foremost, we want to reassure you that all students on the bus were safe and warm throughout the delay. We understand, however, that this situation caused frustration and concern for families whose children were delayed at bus stops, as well as for those waiting for their children to arrive at school. For this, we sincerely apologize.
We hold the safety and well-being of your children as our highest priority and are committed to addressing this issue to prevent it from happening again. In collaboration with First Student, Inc., we will review their procedures to improve driver preparation, route verification, and real-time monitoring.
We sincerely regret the impact this incident had on your mornings. As we work through this issue, we will continue to evaluate our transportation processes and provide updates as necessary. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Jon Fricke, Director of Operations, or the First Student Transportation Department at 513-554-0105.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we take the steps needed to improve. We are grateful for the trust you place in us to care for and transport your children safely each day.
Sincerely,
G. Elgin Card
Superintendent
Jon Fricke
Director of Operations