The school is experiencing a shortage of bus drivers, according to Ron Farrand, Director of Facilities and Transportation. Instead of a need for two or three drivers, which is normal, six to eight drivers are needed.

CHS bus driver Sandy Piltz said that it can be a challenge for those who want to find a second job that can work around their morning and afternoon driving. “You have to be able to find something else that fits your schedule,” Piltz said.

If drivers have to start doubling up on routes, the students riding the bus may have to get up earlier to meet it so the driver can make the extra stops, or students could be forced to get to school later in the morning and get home later at night.

This could decrease the amount of time students have before school to prepare for the day or meet with teachers. Getting home later could also affect their evening schedule or the amount of time they have for homework.

“I wouldn’t want them to double up on drivers because if I have a lot of homework and the bus ride takes longer, that takes time away from my studying,” David Phebus, regular bus rider and junior, said.
According to Farrand, there are advertisements for new bus drivers in local media, including a recent issue of the Current in Carmel. Drivers can now earn up to $33 an hour.