Parents in Ajax are expressing frustration over a recent change in a school bus route that is now forcing their children to endure over two hours of travel time each day. Concerned parents reveal that the lengthy commute is leaving their kids exhausted and negatively impacting various aspects of their lives.
Ryan Scouller shared how the extended bus ride has taken a toll on his son, who has lost interest in extracurricular activities due to lack of rest. “He mentioned he only got five hours of sleep last night, which is inadequate for a 14-year-old boy, and it’s really affecting him,” said Scouller. “On weekends, he tries to catch up on sleep because he’s so drained after enduring this journey for five days in a row.”
This issue isn’t new, as a similar problem was previously reported by CityNews, prompting adjustments that reduced the commute to 40-50 minutes. Parents are puzzled as to why this change was reverted for the current school year, impacting approximately 40-50 students, particularly those in a special education program with a unique start time.
The early morning routine is proving challenging for many students, as highlighted by Scouller, who emphasized, “He’s a teenager, and the school already starts at 8 a.m., which means he has to be on the bus before 7.”
Durham Student Transportation Services clarified that the adjustment was made to accommodate specialized programming at Pickering High School, where a limited number of students from south Ajax attend. The statement mentioned the commitment to ensuring safe and efficient transportation for all eligible students, with ongoing efforts to explore ways to reduce ride times.
Despite the explanations, concerned parents like Christine Keens are struggling to get clarity on the evaluation process of the route. “It shouldn’t be this difficult to get a response. We are pleading for action and barely receiving acknowledgment, which is unacceptable,” expressed Keens.
Myrna Simpson, a parent of twins in Grade 11 who are part of a special education program, emphasized the toll the extended commute is taking on their mental well-being. “They are a vulnerable group with many learning disabilities and disorders,” Simpson shared.
Addressing the broader perspective, Liberal MPP for Ajax, Rob Cerjanec, acknowledged the parents’ concerns and advocated on behalf of the students. He cited a lack of adequate provincial funding for student transportation, putting pressure on school boards that ultimately impacts parents and students.
One determined parent revealed plans to continue pushing for answers and reach out to the Ministry of Education in hopes of initiating a change in the bus route situation.
