Editor:
I’ve been hearing comments from frustrated parents about School District 27’s transportation review, which is causing some families to lose access to the school bus.
While my family is not impacted by this, I empathize with those now struggling to figure out how to get their children to school without the bus.
The district’s transportation review on its website raises several red flags.
First, the district states that “Parents/Guardians choose where to raise their families.” This overlooks choices made out of need over preference, caused by financial limitations, housing availability, and trying to make ends meet. With high rental prices and food costs that continue to rise, rural living with access to garden space and livestock may be more affordable.
Second, the district’s policy to optimize bus routes disproportionately affects rural families, low-income households, and single-parent families, particularly those without reliable transportation. While the district emphasizes efficiency and fiscal responsibility, it does not sufficiently address how these changes impact equitable access to education for families already facing challenges.
Third, the district’s adherence to a 3 km walk limit (consistent with provincial standards) raises safety concerns. The district assumes parents will arrange for children to walk together or transport them to designated pick-up points. However, factors like the lack of sidewalks, streetlights, extreme weather, unplowed roads, and wildlife impact children’s safety. This policy also assumes all children and caregivers are able-bodied. Promoting healthier lifestyles and encouraging kids to get outside is important, but assuming everyone can walk (let alone safely) exacerbates existing inequities. Additionally, caregivers cannot always leave work to pick up their children.
The district justifies these changes as necessary for cost-cutting and route optimization. However, prioritizing efficiency over accessibility and safety unfairly burdens students, leaving only privileged children with reliable access to school.
I understand the solution is not simply reopening bus routes—there are significant financial and staffing constraints. However, it’s essential to engage in further public discussion to explore and develop practical solutions.
Kim Kimberlin
Williams Lake
