Dear West Genesee Families,
We are back! Summer preparation concluded, professional development sessions were held, the entire staff gathered at the stadium, and then the students returned. I am always surprised by how quickly everyone adjusts and shifts back to daily routines. It doesn’t happen without everyone’s combined effort to suddenly change from the summer months. Please accept my thanks for that commitment.
I would like to highlight the West Genesee Transportation Department for the seemingly herculean way that the school year starts. Thank you to our drivers, monitors, mechanics, dispatchers, administrators, and all office personnel that support communication. To Mrs. Deb Price, Director of Transportation and the whole department, we appreciate all you do each day!
Of course, it is natural for each day to become smoother than the day prior, but it is still a daunting task to move 4,000+ student riders, all of whom are in new situations, many of whom are in new locations. Thank you for understanding the adjustments that are made, particularly as we discover efficiencies and ridership estimates become more predictable. Please call the Transportation Department with any pertinent information or clarification that can support our mutual goal of timely and safe travel every day.
I would like to thank everyone for understanding the return to “group stops” that will help reduce the length of runs. Keep in mind that each moment that is timelier adds up across a full route. There should be no large gatherings or long distance, but rather the grouping of neighbors in small numbers; i.e., three students meeting at one driveway to reduce two stops. That is an example of everyone doing their part to help. Thank you.
We currently have approximately 80 runs that make up the majority of of our possible total runs (all to and from school) that are filled with experienced staff. Between substitutes and prospective drivers that are currently in training, we hope to build the workforce and grow the pool of substitutes that support the unexpected and scheduled absences. Please be sure to mention to anyone you know that we are hiring for the Transportation Department and other areas listed below in this e-newsletter. Please consider joining a team that is committed to the youth of our community.
It is great to go back to the “full swing” of daily teaching and learning and events outside the classroom. Take the time to come to an athletic event, a fine arts performance, a PTA/PTO meeting, and the Curriculum Nights/Open Houses that increase your involvement in our schools. Thank you for all you do to be a part of this great community of Wildcats!
David C. Bills, Superintendent of Schools