Gaston County Schools face critical bus driver shortage causing route cancellations

Gaston County Schools are experiencing a significant shortage of school bus drivers, with over 30 open positions district-wide, WBTV reported. This shortage has led to canceled bus routes, including two at Hunter Huss High School for the remainder of the week and another route canceled earlier in the week.

The district attributed the disruptions to three recent bus driver resignations and informed parents that they must arrange alternative transportation for affected students until routes resume. Some remaining drivers have taken on double routes, and staff at Hunter Huss High School have assisted with driving buses to help alleviate the problem.

Families in Gaston County have expressed frustration over the lack of transportation options. Local business owner Kimberly Nichols shared that her flexible schedule allowed her to get her son to school, but she worries about families without such flexibility, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing children's access to education.

Gaston County Schools officials are actively recruiting new drivers and working to stabilize bus routes to address the critical need and minimize further disruptions.