UPDATE: Terrance and John were the board members present. A great number of bus drivers were present and voiced their concerns. The early 5 a.m. mornings, the dark, lack of sidewalks, narrow roads, long 12 hour shifts, driver shortages, shifting routes, cancelled routes, are all making the job for bus drivers very difficult. And, of course, low pay. Next year is contract negotiations which may raise their wages and change some conditions.

Parents were also concerned that because of bus driver shortages, the district is having to make student walk to school if they are within a mile of the school. With no shoulders or sidewalks, darkness, garbage and drug paraphernalia, and wandering homeless people, the parents are concerned for their kids.

Next forum:

WHEN: Nov. 14, 2023
WHAT: School Board Community Forum
TIME: 5:45 PM
WHERE: Graham Library, 9202 224th St E, Graham, WA 98338

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The Bethel School Board has booked the Parkland Spanaway Library for a community forum. District residents and parents are welcome to come meet, chat and discuss topics with their elected board members.

WHEN: Oct 17, 2023
WHAT: School Board Community Forum
TIME: 5:45 PM
WHERE: Parkland/Spanaway Library, 13718 Pacific Ave S, Tacoma, WA 98444

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