Parents and members of the community gathered outside New Westminster Secondary School on Wednesday to show their support for the Queensborough school bus program, urging the government to continue funding this vital service.
The bus program, currently serving over 230 students, is scheduled to end in June. Parents emphasize the significant role the bus plays in their children’s education, providing a safe and reliable means of transportation that allows students to focus on their studies without worrying about being late or changing buses.
Leon Mackie, a parent participating in the protest, highlighted the importance of the bus service for the mental well-being and academic success of students. The program was established in 2024 to address safety concerns related to the challenging commute to the secondary school, especially for students from Queensborough.
Don Doyle, Chair of the Parent Advisory Council for Queensborough, expressed disappointment over the lack of communication from the provincial government, noting efforts made by the community, including a petition with 1,000 signatures, that have gone unanswered.
Laura Kwong, another advocate from New Westminster, echoed the sentiment of feeling ignored by the province, emphasizing the community’s frustration with unfulfilled promises of a permanent free bus service. The ongoing uncertainty has left many students anxious about potentially having to rely on public transit, adding stress to their daily routines.
The community’s advocacy efforts have been primarily directed at the Minister of Education, seeking a clear response regarding the future of the bus program. The unity and determination of parents and residents reflect the shared commitment to ensuring that students have access to safe and reliable transportation for their education.
Keyphrase: Queensborough school bus