As the disruption in school transportation service in Renfrew County continues into the second month, officials say recent meetings have been productive.
Both sides involved in the contract dispute that has stalled service, the Renfrew County Joint Transportation Consortium (RCJTC) and local school bus operators, met Monday and will meet again on Wednesday, Oct. 2.
“Everyone involved is aware of the challenges the community is facing, and the pressing need to have kids on school buses as soon as possible,” reads the latest update from RCJTC. “While we have yet to reach agreements with the bus operators, all participants in today’s meeting came with an openness to listen, and a strong desire to build on what was discussed last week while we work towards a resolution to the disruption.”
Recent updates from both the Catholic and public school boards indicate that attendance remains fairly high despite the interruption.
Renfrew County Catholic District School Board director of education Mark Searson reports that more than 98 per cent of students have been able to attend in-person classes. Kristen Niemi, Renfrew County District School board director of education, says that more than 95 of students have been attending in-person classes.
Both thanked families for prioritizing getting students to school safely and said they are continuing to work on a process to financially compensate families without student transportation.
This week, officials will be looking for feedback on pickups and drop-offs and how the process can be streamlined.
Meanwhile, local educators’ unions and community members have organized a virtual town hall meeting set for Wednesday, Oct. 2 from 7-8:30 p.m. Those affected are invited to have their voice heard. Anyone interested can register for the meeting here.
(Written by Sherry Haaima)