SCCPSS is facing a critical staffing shortage among bus drivers. While the District has expended a significant effort to recruit and retain drivers, the number of drivers currently employed cannot sustain the number of routes traditionally handled by transportation. As a result, route reductions must be considered, and student ridership must be prioritized. Additional information can be found here: SCCPSS Implements Changes to SY 2021-22 Transportation Services.
To overcome staffing shortages, Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools continue to explore various options to ensure the maximum number of students identified in Priorities 1, 2, and 3 can be transported. A review of route options indicates that with a modification to K-8 School Bell Times, the District can realize additional route offerings for our Priority 1, 2, and 3 students. Therefore, SCCPSS will implement an adjustment to the K8 School Bell Schedule. Beginning August 4, 2021, bell times will change from 7:40am-2:40pm to 8:15am-3:15pm. This will apply to all eight K8 schools.
Adjusting the K-8 Schools to a later start time will provide several additional routes that can be offered with the existing number of bus drivers on staff. This change does not mean we can consider other priority levels at this time; however, it does mean that we can serve more students that were identified as eligible in the priority 1, 2 and 3 levels.
You will find the new Bell Times here.
Safety is a top priority for the District, and we continue to look at every available option to provide safe, timely and reliable transportation for our students. Should you have any questions regarding the new bell schedule for your school, please contact us by calling 912-395-5551.
