Transportation Update: Petermann Drivers Strike

The following message was shared this evening to notify Lakota parents and guardians that Petermann Transportation bus drivers did not accept the proposed contract and have voted to strike, effective immediately.

Aug. 31, 2023

Dear Lakota Parents and Guardians,

As an update to Tuesday’s communication, this evening, Lakota Local Schools was notified that its bus provider, Petermann Transportation, could not reach an agreement in contract negotiations with its drivers. Much to our disappointment, they have decided to reject the proposed contract and strike, effective immediately. Representatives from Petermann and the drivers’ union will continue to meet in an effort to reach an agreement.

Due to the strike and the fact that Petermann is the district’s contracted transportation service provider, busing will not be available to any students who utilize Lakota school transportation beginning tomorrow, Friday, Sept. 1 and until the drivers return to work. This includes:

• All special education students, including preschool;
• Before- and after-school childcare transportation provided by Petermann; 
• After-school activities, including athletics; 
• Students who travel between schools for classes and after-school activities; and
• Parochial and private school students who utilize Lakota Transportation. 

As we shared previously, we understand that this puts an enormous burden on our parents who normally rely on busing for their children. Through the duration of the strike: 

• Students will not be marked tardy or absent if they are unable to find transportation to school on the day(s) the strike is in force;
• Please consider carpools to get students to and from school; and
• For everyone’s safety, please be patient during drop-off and pick-up due to the increased number of vehicles.

As we gain a better understanding from Petermann on how many drivers will continue to work in spite of this strike, please know that we will prioritize transportation for our preschool through high school students with disabilities. We will also continue to work toward alternative solutions for students who travel between schools during the day for classes. 

More information will be communicated as soon as these specific plans are solidified. Schools will also be communicating important changes to their arrival and dismissal procedures, as well as any impact to after-school activities and athletics.

Please visit our district website for answers to frequently asked questions. This page will continue to be updated with the latest information.

We are extremely disappointed with this outcome and the impact it will have on our students and their families. We are hoping for a quick resolution and will update you as soon as we have more information from Petermann. Thank you for your patience, understanding and partnership as we work together to make the best of this unfortunate situation.

Sincerely,

Elizabeth Lolli, Ph.D.
Interim Superintendent