Millions of schoolchildren across the country experienced disastrous consequences as they were forced into remote learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Now, as schools reopen for in-person learning, some students in New York City face the possibility of returning to remote learning once again, but this time due to a potential school bus driver strike.
In New York City, bus drivers are not directly employed by the city but instead contracted through TWU Local 1181. The union president, Thomas Fret, expressed that "Drivers, attendants, and shop employees simply cannot make ends meet." If the city fails to reach a new contract on the union's terms by September 7th, the start of school, workers will go on strike.
This strike would leave between 85,000 and 150,000 students without transportation to school, according to NYC schools chancellor David C. Banks. The city's proposed solution for these students is remote learning, a response that has drawn criticism from parents. Amanda Neville, a concerned parent, voiced her dissatisfaction, stating, "It's not fair to the kids who are disabled, who are disadvantaged in the first place to have to deal with this."
Despite her frustration, Neville expressed support for the striking drivers, believing they deserve better treatment. She added, "It's my opinion that they should be city employees."
City Public Schools are closely monitoring the situation and preparing to assist parents by providing emergency Metrocards. However, many parents remain skeptical of these solutions. One parent raised a valid concern, stating, "She's not taking the train by herself to school, not now at 12 years old."
The potential strike and subsequent return to remote learning highlight the ongoing challenges faced by students and parents as they navigate the repercussions of the pandemic. The disruption caused by remote learning has been detrimental to students' education and overall well-being. As the city and the union negotiate, the fate of thousands of students hangs in the balance, with their ability to attend school and receive a quality education at stake.
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