Listen Live
HomeNewsPossibility of fewer school bus drivers with Omicron variant

Possibility of fewer school bus drivers with Omicron variant

Parents are being advised of potential impacts on area school buses because of the Omicron variant of COVID-19. 

Nipissing Parry Sound Student Transportation Services (NPSSTS) says on top of spare driver levels being at their lowest in years due to the pandemic, drivers must screen before reporting for work including isolation requirements and with Omicron being more transmissible there’s a possibility that fewer drivers may be available. 

NPSSTS and the bus companies say they will ensure that early and accurate Route Delay and Route Doubling issues are posted to the NPSSTS Delays Page on their website including more frequent updates. 

They’re also developing strategies to mitigate the impact of driver shortages through route doubling before considering cancellations, but that could lead to some delays. 

- Advertisement -

Drivers will also be provided with Rapid Antigen Tests. 

Student Transportation Services encourages parents to:

  • Stay current with the NPSSTS Delays Page for updated bus information;
  • Review options in your existing Inclement Weather Plan in the event of a cancellation and, where possible add to them including the potential for carpooling where possible;
  • Ensure that students are dressed for the weather conditions;
  • If you have chosen alternate transportation in the short-term, advise the bus company directly.

Route delays were reported Monday with a few cancellations because of driver shortages and the weather in some parts of the area.  

- Advertisment -
- Advertisment -
- Advertisement -

Continue Reading