Columbus City Schools facing community pushback over transportation policy

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- The Columbus Board of Education is still weighing a major change that could impact how thousands get to school. After voting earlier this month to amend its transportation policy, the district is facing concerns from the community about what this could mean for students.

"I thought I better get out here and say something because a lot of these children are going to be affected and their families, sadly, because they just don't know how hard it's going to be," Sherri Smith said.

Sherri Smith spoke during public comment at Tuesday night's meeting. She shared her own experience as a working parent and said eliminating busing for high schoolers could put them at risk of falling behind. 

"The truancy rate is already high, and I just can't stand to see children not graduate and not having a chance of a successful life," Smith said. 

According to Smith, for many families, busing isn't a convenience; it's a necessity.

"A lot of them, the children, are on the reduced or free lunch program," Smith said. "That tells me they're having a hard time right there. You telling me that your income is at a certain level, that if even if they gave them COTA bus passes, that's not going to last forever."

Columbus Board of Education President Michael Cole said the recent policy change simply allows the district to consider cuts as it works to close a $50 million deficit.

"I appreciate the common sensibility that she brings to it," Cole said. "There are a lot of nuances to consider, and I think the important thing for her to understand, like many folks, is that we haven't made a decision yet. We merely amended a policy."

The policy change is just one word from "shall" to "may." This means the district would not be required to transport students in grades 9-12. 

"I just don't want the kids to be in harm's way," Smith said. "When they get on a school bus, they're safe. Most of the time, they're safe. You know, point A, point B."

Cole said the pressure to balance costs while putting students first is incredibly trying. 

"I'm encouraged by the resolve of my colleagues who serve alongside me courageously," Cole said. "And, you know, curiously and engage in a way to make sure that we're making the best choices we can for children, given our circumstances. This is not taken lightly at all."

For now, bussing will continue as is. If passed, the bus schedule would not change until next school year. Cole encourages the community to continue sharing where they stand on the issue.

The Board of Education is expected to discuss the human capital side of the transportation policy, including staff impacts, at its next meeting on Nov. 13. 

If you have any recommendations on transportation, you can find contact information for CCS board members by clicking here.