Asheville City Schools Lacks Bus Capacity, Scouting for New Drivers

Increased Student Enrollment Challenges Transport System

As the student populace continues to surge in Asheville City Schools, the transportation department is now confronted with an unprecedented predicament. The issue arises with the overwhelming student enrollment post-pandemic, leading to school buses nearly hitting their maximum capacity. The satisfactory transportation of these students has become impaired, necessitating an urgent need for more bus drivers.

Amanda Rigsby, the ACS Transportation Director admits, “We haven’t seen this level of enrollment in student transportation since pre-pandemic. We had higher numbers last year at around 1,600. I never anticipated 1,900.” The exact number of pupils signed up for the bus service across the entirety of Asheville City Schools stands at a surprising 1,903.

Balancing Capacity and Student Safety

The school bus system is stretched to its limits, with 22 drivers modifying their regular routines daily to make space for students. Some of these buses are operating on double routes, plying between two elementary schools and then subsequently transporting students across three more campus locations.

While the heightened demand is a challenge, maintaining the safety norms is the top priority. Addressing the growing concern, Rigsby cautiously stated, “As long as we don’t go over [capacity], we’ll be okay. What we’re seeing, in some areas, not all, is that we’re at capacity.”

Concern among Parents

A few parents shared their concerns: “High schoolers sitting on the floor in the aisle last week was alarming.” Another parent reported that her child’s bus was carrying “four kids to a seat” in afternoons. Amber, the mother of a 2nd-grader, voiced concerns about her daughter’s bus service where three children shared a seat during afternoon trips.

Recruiting More Bus Drivers: The Immediate Need

Amanda Rigsby acknowledged this pressing demand and indicated that parents themselves could be a solution. She stated that parents, custodians, support staff and principals could assist in driving, an idea that the school management is currently contemplating.

Rigsby also called attention to the role of the Chipmunk bus tracker app. The app will help parents stay informed about changing bus routes given the existing limitations. The school calls upon those interested to take up these jobs.

Urgent Opening: Drive for ACS

If you or someone you know is keen to drive for Asheville City Schools, please contact their central office right away. Your involvement can make a significant difference in these challenging times.