School districts addressing transportation issues with bus driver shortages

Several school districts are finding ways to address transportation issues as students return to school.

As seen on News Center 7′s Daybreak, two districts shared the strategies they are putting into place to deal with bus driver shortages.

Huber Heights had issues last year getting bus routes covered.

“There’s a lot of work on the on the front end that nobody sees,” Jason Enix Huber Heights City Schools Superintendent said.

They got help from an unlikely driver.

“I know I’m the last call if it’s desperate, I get the call,” Enix said.

The district worked hard this summer to get the 35 drivers they need.

>> Students returning to school on updated bus routes in Huber Heights

Kettering schools have a similar issue.

“Every district faces the challenge with retirements and people choosing to find, you know, other avenues for employment,” said Todd Silverthorn, Transportation Supervisor at Kettering City Schools.

Kettering Schools has taken a different route, creating an unassigned driver position. Unlike substitute driving, it comes with benefits.

“We guarantee them X amount of hours per day. They’re eligible for benefits. They’re eligible to take field trips. So that helps,” Silverthorn said.

Today is the first day of school for first through 10th graders in Kettering.

Substitute drivers are hard to find for most districts in the Miami Valley, with most districts still looking as the school year is starting.

We will update this story.