DURHAM, NC – Durham Public Schools (DPS) has announced plans to return to five-day-a-week bus service starting January 21, 2025. This decision marks a shift from the four-day shuttle bus system implemented in December due to an ongoing shortage of bus drivers.
While the move aims to provide more consistent transportation for students, it comes with a significant adjustment: the introduction of “Family Responsibility Zones.” These zones, areas within a one-mile radius of certain schools, will no longer receive bus services.
What Are Family Responsibility Zones?
Beginning January 21, DPS will designate Family Responsibility Zones for 21 elementary schools. These zones are designed to reduce the strain on the district’s limited transportation resources by encouraging families to arrange alternate transportation for students living near their schools.
The district has published a full list of affected schools and zone sizes on its website to help families plan accordingly. Superintendent Anthony Lewis acknowledged the challenges this poses for some families but emphasized the necessity of the changes.
“Durham Public Schools is very grateful to our parents and school administrators and staff for their patience and cooperation as we continue to face the challenges of transporting our students to and from school,” Lewis said. “We are committed to continuing to work toward the excellence of DPS Transportation Services.”
The Driver Shortage
The driver shortage affecting DPS is part of a larger national issue. School districts across the country have struggled to maintain full transportation services due to difficulties in recruiting and retaining drivers.
DPS has made efforts to address the issue, including increasing recruitment efforts and adjusting transportation strategies. However, the district acknowledges that further solutions are needed to ensure reliable transportation for all students.
Future Plans
Looking ahead, DPS plans to implement additional bus stops in the 2025-2026 school year for schools such as Durham School of the Arts and Rogers-Herr Middle School. These changes aim to optimize transportation routes and better serve the district’s growing student population.
What This Means for Families
Parents and guardians are encouraged to review the updated transportation plans and prepare for the transition. Families within the new responsibility zones may need to arrange carpools, walking groups, or other transportation solutions.
For additional resources, including zone maps and transportation updates, visit the DPS website.
Stay Informed with The Bull City Citizen
As Durham continues to navigate these changes, The Bull City Citizen remains committed to providing accurate, timely updates on local education and community news. Follow us online and on social media for continued coverage of Durham Public Schools and other issues affecting our community.
