East Baton Rouge Parish Officials Address School Bus Transportation Improvements
BATON ROUGE, La. – As the new school year approaches in East Baton Rouge Parish, parents are eager to know the status of student transportation. Officials are optimistic about the improvements made following last year's severe bus driver shortage.
Superintendent LaMont Cole announced that 91% of the parish's school buses are now equipped with air conditioning. "Buses without A/C are primarily backups used only in emergencies," Cole explained.
In addition to upgraded cooling systems, all active route buses are now equipped with new terminals and GPS. This technology integrates with the WheresTheBus app, providing parents with real-time updates on bus arrival times.
"It’s going to help us give parents and students more reliable data regarding bus schedules," said Rob Howle, Assistant Director of Transportation. "We've also linked students to their specific drivers. If a driver switches buses, their route ID follows, ensuring continuity for students."
East Baton Rouge students return to classrooms on Thursday, August 8. Superintendent Cole expressed confidence in the improved transportation system. "We've seen a 60% improvement from last year. We currently have 40 bus driver vacancies but have 48 trail drivers ready to step in. I’m confident all routes will be covered this Thursday and throughout the school year," he stated.
For assistance with the WheresTheBus app, parents can call the new transportation phone bank at (225) 226-3660, operating from 5:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily.
