St. Louis School District Introduces Payments for Parents to Drive Kids Due to Bus Driver Shortage

The initiative offers financial incentives to families as the district grapples with ongoing transportation challenges and staff changes.

St. Louis Public Schools will compensate families who drive their children to school, aiming to mitigate the effects of a severe bus driver shortage.
Starting May 13, eligible families can receive $75 for each of the last two weeks of school, provided students are not frequently absent or tardy.
The incentive program includes distribution of gas cards to families facing chronic bus absenteeism, effective immediately.
Recent disruptions include a 'sick out' by drivers and the discovery of a noose at a mechanic's workstation, escalating tensions within the transportation department.
Leadership changes at local schools and a pending termination of the current bus service contract add to the district's challenges.