School divisions in Virginia are continuing to find ways of addressing the bus driver shortage. (Nathaniel Cline/Virginia Mercury)
—
School divisions in Virginia are continuing to find ways of addressing the bus driver shortage by offering training assistance and incentives. (Photo by Nathaniel Cline/Virginia Mercury)
Legislation to ease Virginia’s lingering school bus driver shortage is cruising through the General Assembly. A bill allowing eligible school districts to use alternative transportation, like passenger vans, has passed the House this week and is now headed to the Senate.
The shortage of CDL-certified school bus drivers began during the pandemic, as many operators retired, sought higher wages, or struggled with rising costs. While vacancies have improved, finding enough drivers remains a challenge, especially in rural areas.
