By Adam Studzinski
NORMAL – Unit 5’s superintendent is looking at ways to reduce costs after the district approved a budget this week with an $800,000 deficit in the transportation fund.
The fund has been running on a deficit for a number of years, primarily due to lack of funding from the state. Superintendent Mark Daniel explained the issue will likely have to be resolved locally.
“If I look at it from strictly a business perspective: I have 133 buses, I’m $800,000 over budget, I have to reduce the number of buses,” said Daniel. “We know that has to happen. In my opinion, that has to happen.”
Daniel explained there are a few ways to reduce bus routes. Unit 5 currently uses a three tier system in which one set of buses transports high school students, another tier transports junior high, and a third carries elementary students.
“(The) second option would be a two tier system, which would probably combine your K through five, so you still have elementary, but now you have six through 12,” said Daniel. “and then an one tier system, K through 12, you’re all going at the same time.”
Daniel said the district will be examining all possible options, while keeping in mind their top priorities for transporting students: safe transportation, timely arrival, and staying within budget.
Adam Studzinski can be reached at adam.studzinski@cumulus.com.
