Duval Schools takes emergency measure to help get kids to school on time

DUVAL COUNTY, Fla. — Action News Jax has learned Duval County Public Schools is taking an emergency measure to help get kids to school on time. In our sit down interview with the district, the Assistant Superintendent of Operations, Paul Soares, told Investigator Emily Turner this move will fill the gap left by bus companies that can’t do their job as contracted.

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One company in particular has been plagued by problems- Student Transportation of America. We’ve done stories about it failing to meet staffing levels, late busses and leaving special needs children behind.

This emergency contract would help pick up the slack where school busses fall short. The company would be contracted specifically to pick up special needs students, students in foster care, and those living in rural areas.

Read: INVESTIGATES: Whistleblowers question safety of school bus company

It’s on tonight’s agenda and if passed, would go into effect tomorrow, Dec. 7, 2022. The company is called zTrip and could take over 50 routes.

It would cost the district $275,000 for this school year. The district says that money will be covered by the fees assessed to Student Transportation of America for failing to fulfill its contract.

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