Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - "We're hopeful for a smooth start compared to the last three years with transportation," said Buffalo School Board member Larry Scott on WBEN on Thursday morning.
The first day of classes is Friday, Sept. 8.
Two things will be new this school year for Buffalo Public Schools.
A three-tiered bell system, with three different start and end times, in an
effort to improve bus transportation for elementary schools. Secondly, the Evolv weapons detection system is in place in all district schools.
The weapons systems were installed last school year in Buffalo high schools. "Every single school in the district should have the weapons detection systems up and operational this school year," added Scott.
On transportation, Scott said the district is in a good place with bus drivers.
Additionally, the district is in the process of hiring 68 new bus aides. "It's been an issue in the past to try to get an aide on every single bus. The district held some successful recruiting events for bus aides this summer," noted Scott.
Recently schools in Louisville, Kentucky abruptly closed for a week after long bus delays. The district increased the number of school start times this year from two to nine.
"It's something that I'm anxious about," Scott admitted. "I did read about the Louisville situation and they actually cut drivers and changed bell times. I made sure that we weren't trying to make it more efficient. We are keeping the drivers that we had and continuing to hire more. With this three bell system, we are providing much better, reliable, transportation this school year."
Another benefit with the three bell system, is that transportation is back this year for after school programs. Something that was not available for the past two school years.
Scott is advising parents to make sure you're acquainted with your child's start and end time. "Most likely it has changed," He said. "For some it may have changed up to 45 minutes. It's important to know those time changes."
