Dear students and families of the RCDSB and RCCDSB,
As you may have seen from the Renfrew County Joint Transportation Consortium (RCJTC), there have been challenges in reaching contracts with school bus companies to ensure school buses are running for the start of the 2024-2025 school year. This means there is the possibility of a service disruption in September.
We realize this may bring stress to what should be a positive last month before the start of another year of learning.
RCJTC’s offer to the school bus service companies is the extent of what they are able to provide without draining dollars from schools and classroom programming. The most recent contract extension offers from RCJTC have been rejected by the school bus service companies.
We have the utmost appreciation and respect for the local school bus drivers who play an important role in our communities, and the educational experiences of our students. In prioritizing the needs of students and their families, RCJTC is asking that the school bus service companies agree to continue to provide student transportation services for the start of school while they continue discussions. The RCJTC is exploring all options to see buses transporting students on September 4th, and we support their ongoing efforts. These efforts include exploring alternative companies to service our bus routes.
RCJTC will provide updates and any new information to students and their families as soon as it is available through email distribution, social media channels, and updated posts on their website. If you have questions, please visit RCJTC’s website www.onthebus.ca/updates which includes more details and frequently asked questions. Superintendents are available to receive specific inquiries not covered under the FAQ. Staff contact information is located on each Board’s website.
Yours truly,
Kristen Niemi, Mark Searson,
RCDSB, Director of Education RCCDSB, Director of Education