The HFM Regional Transportation Service has temporarily suspended bus service for K-12 students in Gloversville and Johnstown due to additional COVID quarantines and isolations of transportation staff.
Bus service is expected to resume on Thursday, Oct. 7 once staff are able to work to return.
On Sunday, Sept. 26, quarantines and isolations began to limit the Regional Transportation Service’s ability to operate its regularly scheduled bus runs. The additional quarantines and isolations, which BOCES learned of Wednesday, Sept. 29, does not leave enough staff to safely offer regular transportation. Bus runs are still being made for special education, out-of-district placements and BOCES programs.
For families unable to arrange alternative transportation, both districts will provide remote instruction for students.
“It’s the goal of schools across the region to offer in-person instruction. Unfortunately due to the national bus driver shortage and the quarantines we’re unable to offer transportation for the next several days,” said HFM BOCES District Superintendent David Ziskin. “We know this presents a challenge for our families but for the safety of our students, staff and families we must continue to follow all CDC and health department guidelines. We thank our families for their patience and effort as we continue to deal with this crisis.”
The effects of quarantines and isolations are made worse by the bus driver shortage that schools are dealing with across the state and country.
According to statewide trade groups, the number of school bus drivers in New York is between 15 to 20% below full staffing levels. Currently, HFM has seven driver positions and six aide positions available. The vacancies include regular driver and aide positions and substitute driver and aide positions.
HFM BOCES is offering free training for individuals interested in becoming bus drivers and aides.
To learn more and to apply visit www.hfmboces.org/employment or call the Regional Transportation Center at 518-775-5788.