Wake County bus driver shortage affecting students' bus routes
RALEIGH (WTVD) -- The Wake County Public School System is struggling to keep bus drivers behind the wheel.
While the district saved money this year by cutting bus routes and stops, Chief Business Officer David Neter told school board members Tuesday the lack of drivers is to blame for many late and no-show buses.
Norman Cade's daughter spends more than four hours per day riding the bus between her Rolesville home and Hunter Elementary in downtown Raleigh.
Cade said they've been dealing with busing issues since last year.
"We thought it would get better this year, but it's actually gotten worse," said Cade. "In the morning, we have had times when the bus did not show."
WCPSS has 906 buses on the roads. The district currently employs 850 full-time drivers and 50 substitute drivers.
Bus drivers blame low pay and student behavior as reasons for leaving. Wake County Schools tells ABC11 it's looking into the issues.
According to WCPSS, the pay scale is in-line with what drivers are offered in other districts. New drivers earn $11.89 per hour.
"I pay for these services, and I would like to have them. I think Wake County needs to do a better job organizing their transportation services," said Cade. "Our bus system is swamped. We need some relief."
Wake County Schools is hiring. Bus drivers will receive $100 for every person they refer who becomes a driver.
