Families in Dawson City, Yukon, face mounting stress from frequent school bus delays and cancellations, according to Klondike MLA Brent McDonald.
Staff at Robert Service School informed parents that afternoon bus pickups would end starting Tuesday and continue through the month’s end due to driver shortages.
Recurring Disruptions Hit Parents Hard
McDonald notes this marks another instance of abrupt service halts, forcing caregivers to scramble for alternatives like relying on friends or extended school hours. “When changes occur on short notice, parents must arrange other options, such as asking friends or the school to watch kids until work ends,” McDonald stated.
Such interruptions often impose financial burdens, requiring early departures from jobs or missed shifts. “Some employers adapt easily, but for doctors, nurses, ambulance staff, police, and emergency responders, it’s particularly challenging,” he added.
Representing Dawson City, McDonald wrote to Education Minister Scott Kent, pressing for action on systemic problems including operations in extreme cold, staffing gaps, and persistent late or cancelled routes. “Occasional issues are expected, but school bus services appear plagued by deeper systemic failures,” McDonald said.
Officials Respond to Concerns
The Department of Education acknowledges the disruption from the temporary afternoon route suspension. A cabinet spokesperson, Tim Kucharuk, stated via email that officials are collaborating with Standard Bus on resolutions.
“Standard Bus is evaluating flying in a qualified driver for the afternoon route and has checked local options, including a community charter company unable to handle student transport,” the statement noted. The referenced firm is Husky Bus, a local tour and transport operator.
Local Provider Seeks Contract Chance
Husky Bus owner Jesse Cooke expressed interest in the territory’s bidding process for rural bus services. “I assumed the territory bundles all rural routes together. Locally in Dawson, a hometown company likely makes more sense,” Cooke said.
Though lacking certified school buses currently, Cooke indicated readiness to invest in suitable vehicles for a three-to-five-year contract. “There are service gaps any local parent can confirm. I’d welcome the chance to improve it,” he affirmed.
