Hello Independence Families, I am updating you on the transportation issues we have proactively addressed since late spring and early summer. As many of you know, there is a need for more bus drivers in school districts throughout Ohio and nationwide. This shortage has been a long-standing issue, predating COVID-19, but fortunately, Independence Schools has managed to avoid its impact until now. This past summer, we had two drivers retire, and one asked to move to part-time. We've advertised job openings on social media, job sites like Indeed and K-12 Jobspot, and through employee referrals. Historically, word of mouth from residents, retirees, and other district drivers has been most effective. With 30% fewer staff, we've explored options like those adopted by nearby districts, such as eliminating high school busing or limiting student transportation within one to two miles of school. After much discussion, the decision was made to maintain transportation services for all students rather than reducing busing. For the 2024-2025 school year, we will adjust bus routes to maximize capacity, slightly increasing students' ride times. This adjustment will reduce our routes from ten to nine and involve transporting some private school students to Independence High School for transfer to their respective schools, allowing us to continue operational efficiency. We are actively recruiting more bus drivers and exploring creative incentives. If we successfully hire additional drivers, we plan to increase routes to reduce students' bus time. Recruitment is a top priority, and we are committed to resolving this issue swiftly. Bus routes have been updated. Please view your child's route on Tyler Technology's App, Ride K-12 (formerly known as Traversa Ride 360). There are instructions on our website under transportation if you need them. Please remember that you should check the App closer to the first day of school, as some information will be updated throughout the next few weeks. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we continue to navigate the bus driver shortage. Your support is invaluable to us! We are fully committed to resolving this issue and providing our students with the best transportation service. Thank you, Kelli Cogan-Superintendent | 