Why are buses being cancelled?
The province of Ontario is and has been struggling for some years with a driver shortage which is only being felt in Tri-Board significantly since the pandemic. COVID-19 compounds this issue with daily illnesses and drivers “screened out” for symptoms or family, and unavailable for work.
What is the province doing about it?
The Province of Ontario has instituted a Driver Retention Program (with significant financial incentive) to address the shortage.
What is Tri-Board doing about it?
Tri-Board has launched a driver recruitment campaign on TV , Radio and Digital platforms to attract driver candidates to apply online (www.Triboard.ca/drivers).
What are bus companies doing about it?
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Enhanced recruitment efforts
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Signing bonuses
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Referral bonuses
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Attendance bonuses
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Driver retention programs
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Increased wages
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All possible spare drivers and licensed office and maintenance staff are driving
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Where possible, trying not to cancel the same bus multiple days in a row
What can families do about it?
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All families using school transportation should sign up for status alerts so they know if the bus is running.
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Create alternative travel and/or care arrangements for when the bus is cancelled
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If you or someone you know is safety-minded and would make a great school bus driver, please apply at triboard.ca/drivers
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If you have questions about a specific cancellation, contact the bus company contracted to service your route
