Talladega City Schools faces bus delays due to driver shortage

Talladega City Schools is experiencing significant delays in its school bus routes, with some students facing wait times exceeding one hour. The delays, affecting nearly 900 students, are caused by a shortage of three drivers. To address the issue, the district is utilizing artificial intelligence to restructure routes and has recruited three retired drivers to assist. Superintendent Dr. Quentin Lee expects service to normalize within a week as data reviews conclude.

The driver shortage is part of a broader, decade-long issue in Alabama. Recent legislation has allowed retired drivers to work full-time without impacting their pensions to help mitigate these vacancies.

In conjunction with the start of the school year, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is urging motorists to exercise caution. Officials are reminding drivers to slow down in school zones, avoid phone distractions, and strictly obey laws regarding stopped school buses with flashing red lights and extended stop arms.