A change over to a one run bus system means middle and high school students in South Queens will get a little more shut-eye.
Starting in September, South Queens students will all be riding the bus together and starting classes closer to the same time.
The South Shore Regional School Board voted on the move at their December 13 regular meeting.
Brian Smith, director of operations for the board, says the schools’ advisory councils proposed the move several years ago, citing health benefits.
“There’s research that indicates that mental health and general health benefits by even a half hour later start for students,” says Smith.
Liverpool Regional High School will go from a 8 a.m. start to an 8:35 a.m. start.
The high school’s day will also end later, moving from 1:55 to 2:35 p.m.
South Queens Middle School will move from 7:41 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. Dr. John C. Wickwire Academy times remain the same.
The changes address parents concerns about the 64 minute difference between the start of the day for elementary students and middle school students.
Three students came to the school board meeting to voice concerns over the changes, saying they prefer the early start time and wish there had been more consultation, however Smith says most parents are on board with the idea.
“We had a great number of positive comments come to us from our Facebook account, Twitter, emails, and as well as the feedback in the public consultation and the SAC consultations,” says Smith.
There will also be benefits for students in out-lying areas like Port l’Hebert, who will see a shorter bus trip.
The move also eliminates the need for a transfer for Mill Village and Danesville students.
As far as behavioural issues are concerned, Denise Crouse, transportation director for the board, says assigned seating will be implemented to address those concerns.
She emphasized however, that other school families in SSRSB have had a one run system for years.
Some bus stops will change, with precedent being given to keeping the stops of younger students and those with special needs.
The change to the one run system will save the school board over $56,000 a year.
