On Monday, the Princeton City Schools Board of Education took swift action to protect students’ education during the ongoing First Student driver strike. In a unanimous vote, the board approved emergency agreements with two private providers—Queen City Charter LLC and Jimmy’s Limousine Service—to supply bus and van transportation on an as‑needed basis.
Local families gain a transportation safety net
The strike, which began in early October, has left dozens of families scrambling to get their children to school. By partnering with Queen City Charter, the district can call on additional buses whenever routes are disrupted. Jimmy’s Limousine Service will supplement the effort with vans and smaller buses, ensuring that even students in outlying neighborhoods have a way to attend class.
Board emphasizes community stability
Board members highlighted the essential role of reliable school transportation in maintaining a stable learning environment for families. “Our priority is to keep classrooms full and families from having to make impossible choices about work and childcare,” said a board spokesperson. The emergency contracts are intended as a temporary bridge until contract negotiations between First Student and the drivers’ union reach a resolution.
Union voices concerns over wages and benefits
Union lead negotiator Derryl Hall warned that the strike will continue until drivers’ demands are met. Hall noted that the average driver earns just under $26 an hour, while new‑hire rates sit at $23.50. “We are fighting for wages and benefits that are reasonable and reflect the value of the work these drivers do,” Hall said.
Bus driver Karrshea Hunter echoed the union’s frustration, citing low wages and inadequate benefits as the core of the dispute. “I’m just frustrated. It’s the lack of respect,” Hunter told board members. “Clearly, I’m not valued here. Why stay at a place where I’m not valued when I’ve given so much?”
Board’s response to union criticism
The board acknowledged the union’s concerns but stressed that bringing in additional transportation providers does not undermine the negotiation process. Instead, it safeguards students’ right to education while adults work toward a fair contract. “We respect the drivers’ right to organize and bargain,” the board statement read, “but we also have a duty to ensure that children are not penalized for a labor dispute.”
Next steps for the strike
Drivers plan to return to the picket line Tuesday morning, and negotiations are expected to continue throughout the week. The emergency agreements remain in effect until the board determines that regular bus service can safely resume.
Community reaction
Parents across Princeton have expressed relief at the board’s quick action. “We were worried about missing school and work,” said one parent. “Having a backup plan gives us peace of mind while the strike is resolved.” Local businesses also welcomed the move, noting that reliable student transportation helps maintain a steady flow of customers during school hours.
As the dispute unfolds, the Princeton City Schools Board of Education remains committed to balancing the legitimate concerns of drivers with the educational needs of the community.
Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.
