Press Release: District Sets Expectations for Transportation As '25-'26 School Year Begins

August 22, 2025
For Immediate Release

CONTACT:
Office of Communications
301-952-6001
communications@pgcps.org

UPPER MARLBORO, MD - Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) will open the 2025–26 school year facing a bus driver shortage that mirrors a nationwide challenge, resulting in open routes and anticipated transportation delays.

While drivers will cover every route to ensure students are picked up, families should prepare for longer travel times and schedule adjustments at the start of the year.

“We want to be clear and transparent with our families from day one,” said 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.”

New Tools for Families

To support families before the first day of school, PGCPS will launch a portal with information on open routes and schools where delays are expected. This resource will be updated regularly, giving parents direct access to the latest information.

PGCPS will also 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.

Steps to Improve Service

The district is taking aggressive measures to strengthen transportation services and improve the student experience:

• 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 rigorous six-week onboarding process, including classroom and on-the-road training, safety protocols, and extensive background checks. While this timeline can lengthen how quickly vacancies are filled, the district remains committed to maintaining the highest standards for student safety.

“We know the start of the year will bring challenges, but families can count on us to be transparent, responsive, and focused on solutions,” Dr. 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.”

For the latest updates, families are encouraged to view the district’s Transportation FAQ and 2025 Back-to-School Transportation Checklist. Families can submit requests for assistance.

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