NYC Still Hasn’t Resolved School Bus Strike
Chancellor David Banks has cautioned parent leaders this week about the potential for a school bus driver strike that could impact the start of the upcoming school year.
In a meeting with members of his parent advisory council, Banks stated, “We are currently engaged in negotiations with the Amalgamated Transit Union regarding bus services, and there are legitimate concerns regarding the possibility of a bus strike.” He expressed hope that the situation could be resolved but wanted to raise awareness of the potential issue. He assured that more information would be shared in the coming days.
Should a school bus strike occur, it would disproportionately affect the city’s youngest students and those with disabilities. Banks mentioned that the strike might impact between 85,000 and 150,000 students.
Local 1811 of the Amalgamated Transit Union, which represents many school bus drivers, had no immediate comment on the matter. However, a recent union newsletter indicated that employees at several school bus companies that collaborate with the city had voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike.
City buses have been a source of frustration for families, especially at the beginning of the school year. Late or absent buses contribute to chronic absenteeism and have often caused inconvenience to working families. There have also been reports of buses without air conditioning reaching extreme temperatures.
A potential bus strike would be more disruptive than the typical opening weeks’ glitches experienced by parents. Moreover, it would coincide with schools reestablishing their routines after pandemic-induced disruptions.
Chancellor Banks assured parents that alternative transportation options would be clearly outlined if a strike were to occur. The city’s plans include providing students with MetroCards and reimbursements for alternative transportation. In some instances, there might even be arrangements for free ride-sharing services.
Education department spokesperson Nathaniel Styer explained that these negotiations are distinct since they involve bus companies and their employees, who are not city employees. He urged the parties to continue negotiations for a voluntary agreement.
The city collaborates with over 50 bus companies operating around 9,000 routes. The exact number of routes that would be affected by a potential strike is uncertain.
New York City’s school bus drivers last went on strike in January 2013, seeking priority for senior drivers over newcomers. Since then, some bus companies have authorized strikes but managed to reach agreements before any labor actions. The pandemic has severely disrupted the city’s school bus system, resulting in driver shortages and challenges in rehiring drivers after school closures.
1 comment