Statement on Antler River Elementary School Bussing
September 5, 2021
Aanii Deshkan Ziibiing Anishinaabeg,
On Sept 4, 2021, a post was made on Facebook notifying ARES families that there will be no bus service this year. This notice was made without providing critical information about the bussing situation. The decision to start school without transportation services is TEMPORARY and will not affect the entire school year. The Board of Education has a bus contract with Lang’s, but they are experiencing a shortage of bus drivers which has adversely affected the return to school transportation service for Antler River Elementary School. The Board of Education,in conversation with Chief French, Education Administration, and the ARES Principal, has been working with Lang’s and local bus owners to explore alternative transportation agreements. The Board of Education is also seeking the help of our community in filling three (3) bus driver positions. These bus drivers will be hired by Lang’s bus company.
Please see the attached Job Posting and share with your contacts.
We understand that this news comes at a difficult time and with short notice, but please be assured that we are committed to finding solutions to get our ARES students to school safely and on time. Until transportation is restored, students can be dropped off at school between 8:45 AM and 9:00 AM and picked up at the end of the day between 3:20 PM and 3:40 PM. To discuss ARES student transportation needs during the transportation suspension, please leave a message with ARES Principal, Vick Slay: vslay@cottares.com or 519.289.1000. For questions or concerns about transportation services, please leave a message with the Board of Education Office: ed.admin@chippewa-ed.on.caor 519.289.0621. The new Board of Education is committed to keeping our community informed and will post another update by the end of next week.
Miigwech for your understanding in this matter as we continue to find solutions.