Little Miami Special Board Meeting 8/5/26

The Little Miami Schools Special Board Meeting held on August 5, 2026, focused primarily on addressing critical transportation challenges facing the district, particularly a shortage of bus drivers. Public comments expressed strong concerns about the proposed outsourcing contract with First Student, which would cost approximately $500,000 annually, and its impact on veteran drivers and service quality. Board members discussed the history of the transportation issues, efforts to recruit and train new drivers, and the limitations of route consolidation. The board considered a contract for substitute drivers with First Student, including a 120-day term and a non-compete clause, as a temporary measure to ensure student transportation at the start of the school year. There was debate about the contract's duration and the potential to renegotiate for a shorter term to allow time to build internal capacity. The board voted to approve the contract, with a majority in favor, while some members opposed it due to concerns about outsourcing and fiscal priorities. The meeting highlighted ongoing efforts to improve the transportation department's self-sufficiency and driver retention through enhanced training programs and recruitment incentives.