Recently, several buses at Torrington High School have been arriving late, causing students to be marked tardy and making it difficult to get to class on time. This recurring issue frustrates both students and staff because it disrupts the start of the school day and highlights the need to address its root causes.
The situation is particularly challenging for students like Kamryn Thomas and Ashwin Antoine. For them, the impact of late buses goes beyond missing the start of class. Frequent tardiness can negatively affect report cards, which play a significant role in college applications. A pattern of late arrivals can create a negative impression, potentially complicating the process of applying to preferred colleges. Both Ashwin and Kamryn report frustration and stress due to the unpredictable bus schedules.
Ms. McCarthy noted that the school administration is aware of the delays, explaining that new bus drivers are still learning their routes. Students, however, remain concerned. Both Cameron and Ashwin have expressed disapproval of the current route, particularly the loop that requires buses to drop off Tech students first before returning to their stops. They say this detour adds unnecessary time to their commute.
While Ms. McCarthy’s statement offers a straightforward explanation, the issue goes beyond new drivers learning their routes. The school could consider additional training or support for drivers, or a review of the transportation plan. Involving students, bus drivers, and administrators is key to ensuring that all students arrive on time and ready to learn.
