The families of 150 secondary students in the Stoughton Public Schools system learned last week that their children will not be able to ride the bus next school year.
The district says families who applied have already been notified but must make other arrangements. The district superintendent explained in a news release that the public school system has seen a significant increase in bus enrollment but is limited by budget constraints.
The district received 1,529 applications for bus transportation this year, 162 more than last year.
Despite a 7.1 percent increase in funding, the district was unable to maintain the previous year’s performance level, the statement said, as the district reduced the number of buses from 14 to 13.
Places were allocated on a first come, first served basis, with priority given to applicants who registered first.
All 771 elementary school students who applied were able to be accommodated, but only 84% of middle and high school applicants were given a place.
The district stressed that the state is funding the two buses provided for students living in hotels and shelters and that this will not impact the operating budget.
“It is inaccurate to say that the fact that your children are being bused is the reason your children have not been bused,” said Superintendent Dr. Joseph Baeta. “If we did not receive funding from the state for the students living in hotels/homes, we would not be able to have these two additional buses.”
There is no district requirement to provide transportation for students in grades 7-12, and there will be no busing costs in the 2024-2025 school year.
Families who are expecting bus transportation and have not yet received other notification should receive a postcard this week.
A virtual meeting was scheduled for Monday at 6 p.m. where parents could ask questions. The superintendent and communications office were present to address concerns.
