As of January 2nd, 2025, the day back from Christmas Break, York Schools officially switched to using First Student, for bus transportation. The previous bus provider, Ledgemere, was not able to provide adequate bus transportation to fill the needs of the school district. They had a shortage of bus drivers, only being able to supply six of the nine drivers that would be necessary. On account of this, there has been much frustration, unpredictability, inconvenience, and disruptions, leading the York School Department (YSD) to look for a solution.
First Student is a bus service provider with reliable and efficient records of service in transportation throughout New England and nationwide. Strict safety protocols are in place including the following: regular driver training, driver coaching and meticulous background checks. Thanks to the modern technology and software systems tracking buses and real-time updates regarding changes or delays is available to YSD personnel and families. They can fill bus driver positions and have extra drivers that are obtainable if required, since they cover a large area and drivers receive benefits and higher pay.
In regards to safety, when working on First Student, a driver-specific incident in a nearby district was discovered, but their fast action and reliance on company protocols made it so the situation was dealt with safely and in a timely manner, as explained in their openness during the process of interviewing. The district still uses First Student. Superintendent Timothy L. Doak states, “We appreciated First Student’s honesty and transparency during the interview and diligence process. Both were an important factor in YSD’s recommendation to move forward with First Student.” Hopefully the transition remains smooth and the district reaps the proposed benefits.
