Title: East Baton Rouge School System Cancels Classes Due to Bus Driver Shortage
Date: August 21, 2023
BATON ROUGE, La. (WAFB) – The East Baton Rouge School System has announced the cancellation of all classes on Monday, August 21, due to a severe shortage of bus drivers. This decision comes after more than half of the school system’s bus drivers called out sick on Friday in response to the school board’s approval of a stipend instead of a pay increase for transportation workers.
In a statement released by the EBR Schools System, it was highlighted that the cancellation of classes is necessary to allow district leadership to engage with employee groups who have expressed challenges in their roles. The school system’s officials are keen on finding solutions to the ongoing bus driver shortage, which has severely affected transportation services.
While classes are suspended for the day, all EBRPSS employees are expected to report to work as adjustments will be made that impact various elements of the system and schedules. Furthermore, the closure will extend to all EBRPSS services, including transportation, and there will be no buses operating on Monday for charter, parochial, or any other events serviced by the school’s bus operators.
Superintendent Narcisse has been actively working with district and individual school leaders throughout the weekend to facilitate separate meetings with various employee groups. These meetings aim to address the issues and challenges faced by bus operators, aides, mechanics, child nutrition workers, and local union leaders. The objective is to collaborate on finding effective solutions and ensure a swift return to normal operations.
This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Students, parents, and staff are advised to check back for the latest developments.
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