Schools
Bus Issues May Arise As School Year Kicks Off Tuesday: Prince George's Schools
Prince George's school leaders say there could be bus issues Tuesday as students return to the classroom, but there's an app that can help.
PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, MD — School officials noted that a bus driver shortage nationwide likely will impact Prince George's students who return to the classroom Tuesday, Aug. 26.
Families should anticipate longer travel times on buses and schedule adjustments as school gets underway for the 2025-2026 year.
“We want to be clear and transparent with our families from day one,” said PGCPS Interim Superintendent Dr. Shawn Joseph. “Your child will get to school safely, but in some cases, it may take longer than planned. Our commitment is to keep families informed so they know what to expect.”
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PGCPS has launched a portal with information about open routes and schools where delays are expected. This resource will be updated regularly, giving parents direct access to the latest information, school officials said.
PGCPS also will continue using the StopFinder app this fall while piloting the new Chipmunk app with select families. Chipmunk offers real-time bus tracking, estimated arrival alerts and improved accuracy. A broader rollout will follow later in the school year.
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To help attract more drivers for the school year, the district is taking the following measures:
- Increasing pay for transportation staff. Bus driver trainees now earn $20 an hour (up from $18), substitute bus drivers earn $22 an hour (up from $20) and substitute bus attendants earn $16.50 an hour (up from $15.75).
- Hiring and onboarding new drivers through a more streamlined process without compromising safety standards.
- Adding tablets to buses to boost routing and GPS accuracy.
- Doubling customer service staff to better support families.
- Expanding contracted services and hiring non-CDL van drivers to cover routes.
PGCPS bus drivers must complete a six-week onboarding process, including classroom and on-the-road training, safety protocols and extensive background checks.
“We know the start of the year will bring challenges, but families can count on us to be transparent, responsive, and focused on solutions,” Joseph said. “With higher pay and great benefits to attract drivers, as well as new supports for families, we are building a transportation system that will only get stronger as the year goes on.”
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