Auburn MA Public School Bus Fee - Update pg 13 #184

[katieandallycat]

What really sad? At least you know about them. What really worries me is the unregistered and you know they are out there! One of my favorite sites:
http://www.familywatchdog.us/.
Does anybody else have to be finger printed to work in their childs school? We do, but my sister's doesn't, I personally like it. We also have to file stuff with the district. Oh and girl scouts was now requiring it.

 

[disneydance]

This is insane having to pay for bus transportation. I know our school district doesnt do this and i am thankful for that.

 

[It's A Happy Day]

My question is why do we think we are entitled to the bus? Growing up, there was no transportation provided to us kids. You walked, rode a bike, carpooled or took the city bus. Of course this was in the day were we were left home alone at age 7. Daycare? back then it was, what's that?
Now that I am transporting my DD, I finally am able to get to know the staff, other parents, kids. And most importantly, I am able to see how she is getting along these people, since she is autistic, this is very important.

I don't know where you went to school but bussing was absolutely provided for us...through HIGH SCHOOL, not this up to grade six stuff. Tax money is supposed to be going to the schools to pay for things INCLUDING the bussing of public school children. This towns taxes have doubled in the past 2 years. We passed prop 2 1/2 to help the schools 2 years ago (trying to get more info on that). So in a sense, the school bus fee being imposed on parents is yet another way to hike up my already high taxes without calling it such.

If you want my opinion I think the guidelines should be an age limit, not a mileage limit. The schools are set up here K-2 and then 3-5. At minimum, due to "safety" reasons, schools should be bussing any child under the age of say at least 8 maybe even 10 by Sept 1 (use the same date school systems use for kindergarten entry) if the parent requests a bus pass. Young children do not have the mental, emotional, or PHYSICAL strength/capacity to fight off a predator, a middle or high schooler is better equipped by then - bigger, faster, louder, smarter. You can dispute distance by disputing the method of measurement used, you can dispute the exceptions clause - safety, health, you can not debate a must be age ______. You either are that age or not and the school has a copy of the childs birth certificate. And for the record, I am not saying don't provide bussing for the older kids either, I think with the taxes around here PUBLIC school bussing should not be an additional cost for parents.

Someone asked what a teacher makes around here. It is a art that is not appreciated much IMO. It seems those that give the most get the least. Average teachers salary I believe is in the $35,000-$40,000 range while the superintendant who has not returned 1 single phone call makes between 130,000-150,000 per year. It seems around here, that money would be better spent on teachers who put their heart & soul into their jobs everyday vs. what I have seen taking place in the administration office. My childrens school itself is great - the teachers, principals, secretarial staff are wonderful. The admin office cannot get a simple request straight.

Today for instance I called the admin office. I spoke to the person who is in charge of the walk routes/crossing guards. I explained who I was and that I needed her to put in writing the route recommended for my son. I asked politely for this request and stated that I would be able to pick it up after 11AM (it was 8:22) or it could be faxed to such # and that IF it could NOT be done by that time to please call me at ### and let me know so that I would not waste a trip. No phone call. I pick up DD at school and head to the admin bldg. You guessed it, no letter, no route. She ended up verbally giving me the route reluctantly but wanted to know why? I explained that I needed it in writing due to a problem I was having with the school and wanted to make sure exactly what route they thought my kids should be taking as it is not the route pulled up on Mapquest or any other online map system. When I asked why I didn't get a call when I asked to please let me know if it would not be done - Her response was "Oh, I guess I didn't understand"

 

[It's A Happy Day]

Well, tonight was judgement day! Meeting scheduled for 6PM.

At 9:30AM I get a call at work - the only people who actually have that day job # is the school in case 1 of the kids is ill, hurt, etc. So instantly I get that mom sick stomach feeling of "what's wrong". Well, I answer the phone and it is actually the Superintendant calling me I didn't realize that he could actually dial the phone up till this point So, long story short, they have made a "miscalculation" in the mileage and now that "he" has physically driven the distance 3X in 24 hours, his odemeter reads 2.1 miles He continued on to tell me they would be issuing both children passes, a permanent letter would be placed in my childrens file so that this will NOT happen again in the future, I would be mailed a copy of that letter, and he applauds my perserverance. So now I am just waiting for it in writing and instead of having to attend a school committee meeting I was able to go to curriculum night and meet my sons teacher who is a peach Fingers crossed he follows through! I almost did not post until I got them in hand because I hate to put the cart before the horse so to speak.

 

[DisneyAprilFool]

WOW! I am sooo proud of you!!! Good for you and your family!!!

 

[mtblujeans]

....So now I am just waiting for it in writing and instead of having to attend a school committee meeting I was able to go to curriculum night and meet my sons teacher who is a peach Fingers crossed he follows through! I almost did not post until I got them in hand because I hate to put the cart before the horse so to speak.

If you don't get a letter by week end, I would call his secretary on Friday morning and have it faxed to you! I suggest you be persistent until it is signed, sealed, and delivered....you know what I mean!

Good job, Mom!

 

[Wilsonfamily4]

I know a lot of people were telling you to give up but I think it is a good lesson to teach your children. If you feel you are right do not give up. Good for you!

 

[gonemousin']

Good job! You must be so thrilled!!

It's just a shame they wasted so much time before taking you seriously. Seems like it was a simple fix once the superintendant gave you the time of day.

But like they say...onward and upward...hope your son has a great year in school!!

 

[kerry34]

Well, tonight was judgement day! Meeting scheduled for 6PM.

At 9:30AM I get a call at work - the only people who actually have that day job # is the school in case 1 of the kids is ill, hurt, etc. So instantly I get that mom sick stomach feeling of "what's wrong". Well, I answer the phone and it is actually the Superintendant calling me I didn't realize that he could actually dial the phone up till this point So, long story short, they have made a "miscalculation" in the mileage and now that "he" has physically driven the distance 3X in 24 hours, his odemeter reads 2.1 miles He continued on to tell me they would be issuing both children passes, a permanent letter would be placed in my childrens file so that this will NOT happen again in the future, I would be mailed a copy of that letter, and he applauds my perserverance. So now I am just waiting for it in writing and instead of having to attend a school committee meeting I was able to go to curriculum night and meet my sons teacher who is a peach Fingers crossed he follows through! I almost did not post until I got them in hand because I hate to put the cart before the horse so to speak.

Glad to hear it all worked out for you!!! I wonder one thing though....why did it take them so long to discover their "miscalculation" and make you go through so much?? Hopefully you will get the passes by friday and there is no more trouble for you. Thank god you did not have to miss Curriculum night also. We were there last night for second grade. One thing I can say from having five kids go through that school is that the teachers are really wonderful there. Have never once came across one that there was ever a problem with. Its a good thing the school makes up for what administration at times lacks.

 

[It's A Happy Day]

If you don't get a letter by week end, I would call his secretary on Friday morning and have it faxed to you! I suggest you be persistent until it is signed, sealed, and delivered....you know what I mean!

Good job, Mom!

I was actually planning on going up there today after I get DD (they are fairly close) so it isn't totally out of my way to check on it. They should already have the passes ready, it is just the letter I need to make sure I get and make about 100 copies and put them everywhere around the house so if I need it next year I will be able to find it.

I know a lot of people were telling you to give up but I think it is a good lesson to teach your children. If you feel you are right do not give up. Good for you!

Funny you should mention that. Last night I sat both kids down and explained to them that when you truly believe in something and really feel in your heart & head that you are right, that you have to take a stand sometimes.

Glad to hear it all worked out for you!!! I wonder one thing though....why did it take them so long to discover their "miscalculation" and make you go through so much?? Hopefully you will get the passes by friday and there is no more trouble for you. Thank god you did not have to miss Curriculum night also. We were there last night for second grade. One thing I can say from having five kids go through that school is that the teachers are really wonderful there. Have never once came across one that there was ever a problem with. Its a good thing the school makes up for what administration at times lacks.

Looking at your siggie pic, I see that picture was taken in front of that school. I really do LOVE being part of that community and the school is really great! We lucked out with the new principal now in her 2nd year and both of my children have had great teachers and it has really made learning a great experience for them. DD was saying this morning how Miss Donahue is SOOOO nice & DS loves his teacher too!

 

[scrapquitler]

Just thought I'd mention this because someone else alluded to the same thing: You have know 'how' they are measuring the distance. I looked at the bus policy for my local school district and the policy measures it "from the corner of the school property" closest to the home (could be a HUGE difference from the door of the building) to the closest intersection to our house. In my case, that means from the corner of our street (and we live at the END of the cul de sac) to the corner of the school property (and the building is at the other side of the school property from the corner nearest us), so it could make a BIG difference in the distance measurement. Maybe something like that is in play in your stuation????

And I'd also argue the point with the BOE that not every family can afford the fee...I would think there would have to be some sort of waiver provision available for those with a low income (even if it doesn't include you, I'd make the point anyway).

 

[sarahlovesmickey]

YAYYYYYYYYYYYY, SALLY!!!!!!!!!! I am so happy that you won the battle. =)

 

[kaytieeldr]

They should already have the passes ready, it is just the letter I need to make sure I get and make about 100 copies and put them everywhere around the house so if I need it next year I will be able to find it

Just to be totally safe, I would keep one in each glove compartment, one at work if you have a place to put it, give one to your DH, give a couple to friends/family, put one in a safe deposit box if you have one of those anyway….

Just thought I'd mention this because someone else alluded to the same thing: You have know 'how' they are measuring the distance.

I think I looked it up when Sally started posting. In Massachusetts, I’m not sure of the starting point (might be the end of the student’s driveway) but the ending point here is wherever the buses drop students off. So, if the back of the school – like, the playground maybe – was 1.9 miles from the student’s house, but the bus that passed by her house drives around the building and pulls up in front, that might make it even 2.01 miles – and make the student eligible for free transportation.

 

[It's A Happy Day]

Just thought I'd mention this because someone else alluded to the same thing: You have know 'how' they are measuring the distance. I looked at the bus policy for my local school district and the policy measures it "from the corner of the school property" closest to the home (could be a HUGE difference from the door of the building) to the closest intersection to our house. In my case, that means from the corner of our street (and we live at the END of the cul de sac) to the corner of the school property (and the building is at the other side of the school property from the corner nearest us), so it could make a BIG difference in the distance measurement. Maybe something like that is in play in your stuation????

And I'd also argue the point with the BOE that not every family can afford the fee...I would think there would have to be some sort of waiver provision available for those with a low income (even if it doesn't include you, I'd make the point anyway).

You are SO right in checking to find out WHAT exactly the policy states and knowing your states policy as well, when & if a problem arises. I researched and actually spoke with the State Dept. of Education several times for clarification purposes to make sure I understood what the towns obligations were as far as meeting the states requirements.
Questions to ask would be:
* What is the policy? Is there a clause that states "exceptions may be made when...." and what are those exceptions?
* Is there a certain program/system the town needs to use to measure the distance?
* What is point A and what is point B - the driveway, the front door, the end of the street, the bus stop, etc.

When I drove and measured the distance it was a starting point of the front walk in front of my house (not the front door or driveway) and drove to where the school bus stops to let the kids exit the bus at the entrance of the school. By using the states guidelines (not the towns) I was able to make my case.

There are also rules/guidelines that if you qualify for free or reduced lunch you can also get free or reduced transportation. So those parents/children are not faced with yet another hardship on top of anything they may be going through at home financially.

 

[kerry34]

[/QUOTE]Looking at your siggie pic, I see that picture was taken in front of that school. I really do LOVE being part of that community and the school is really great! We lucked out with the new principal now in her 2nd year and both of my children have had great teachers and it has really made learning a great experience for them. DD was saying this morning how Miss Donahue is SOOOO nice & DS loves his teacher too![/QUOTE]

Oh Miss Donahue is very nice. One of my girls goes to her and just loves her. My girls loved their first grade teachers last year, one had Mrs Cotter and the other had Mrs Horgan. I have had kids in and out of the school over the past ten years and this is the last year being there and I am sad about that. There is nothing wrong with the other schools but the atmosphere at there is really like a community.

 

[It's A Happy Day]

Looking at your siggie pic, I see that picture was taken in front of that school. I really do LOVE being part of that community and the school is really great! We lucked out with the new principal now in her 2nd year and both of my children have had great teachers and it has really made learning a great experience for them. DD was saying this morning how Miss Donahue is SOOOO nice & DS loves his teacher too!

Oh Miss Donahue is very nice. One of my girls goes to her and just loves her. My girls loved their first grade teachers last year, one had Mrs Cotter and the other had Mrs Horgan. I have had kids in and out of the school over the past ten years and this is the last year being there and I am sad about that. There is nothing wrong with the other schools but the atmosphere at there is really like a community.

So your girls are in 2nd grade now. I am sure I have seen them while running around up there. We have 1 more year with DS and 2 with DD at that school and I am really enjoying things. DS sees MRS Donahue for Speech and both kids had/have MISS Donahue for kindergarten. Try to teach a 5 year old how they are NOT related but have the same name The school just has that close knit feel to it and I really enjoy it. I will be sad when those primary years are over but I am also looking forward to JB as well. It is across the street from my inlaws so the kids have already played on the jungle gym there and are in their comfort zone around there. I think they will be less anxious because it is IN their neighborhood instead of a short ride away. Good luck with 2nd grade! It is sure to be a fast and fun year!

 

[adamandallie]

We live close by in Sutton and have fees for our busses also. There is a family cap of about $300 per family. I think its crazy to have to pay for a bus pass. In sutton there are no sidewalks for the kids to walk to school on. It has increased the number of parents who drop off and pick up their kids from school. This creates more traffic in the mornings and overloads the school parking lots with parents dropping off and picking up kids. Last year the school made a big deal about the safety of kids in the school parking lot because of increased traffic. The schools answer was to have parents pull up to the sidewalk at school and the children would be brought to your car. The line for pick up that afternoon went out into the street and prohibited the busses from getting into the school's driveway. That idea lasted one day. The next proposal was to have parents line up on the sidewalk and the kids would be brought out to them. That ended on the first day it poured rain.

Its upsetting that PTOs have to raise money to buy things like paper, toner, school books, and contribute to teacher's salaries. The town of Sutton finally passed a prop 2 1/2 override that included some money for the school. Although it wasn't the amount we needed it was enough to give some relief to the school budget. At least PTO won't have to pay for the 1st grade reading program.

 

[adamandallie]

We live close by in Sutton and have fees for our busses also. There is a family cap of about $300 per family. I think its crazy to have to pay for a bus pass. In sutton there are no sidewalks for the kids to walk to school on. It has increased the number of parents who drop off and pick up their kids from school. This creates more traffic in the mornings and overloads the school parking lots with parents dropping off and picking up kids. Last year the school made a big deal about the safety of kids in the school parking lot because of increased traffic. The schools answer was to have parents pull up to the sidewalk at school and the children would be brought to your car. The line for pick up that afternoon went out into the street and prohibited the busses from getting into the school's driveway. That idea lasted one day. The next proposal was to have parents line up on the sidewalk and the kids would be brought out to them. That ended on the first day it poured rain.

Its upsetting that PTOs have to raise money to buy things like paper, toner, school books, and contribute to teacher's salaries. The town of Sutton finally passed a prop 2 1/2 override that included some money for the school. Although it wasn't the amount we needed it was enough to give some relief to the school budget. At least PTO won't have to pay for the 1st grade reading program.

 

[kaytieeldr]

Despite all the aggravation she's gone through, ultimately the OP has it good. After reading about It's A Happy Day's success yesterday, I read a small article in the Boston Globe. The town of Randolph no longer provides bus transportation, period.

 

[OceanAnnie]

Yeah!! I was hoping that you would prevail. I'm glad to see the good news!