(Richmond, VA) -- Virginia's school bus driver vacancy rate has decreased by five percent over the past three school years, according to the Virginia Department of Education. Thomas Cage reports.Preview: Voicer Script:
Factors like pay, recruitment challenges, and drivers leaving for the private sector contributed to the shortage. The state legislature has taken measures to address the shortage, including legislation to allow retired drivers to return to work without jeopardizing their pension benefits. WTOP reports some school divisions have successfully addressed the shortage, with one superintendent even becoming a part-time bus driver to alleviate transportation barriers for students.