'It's a huge mess': Waukesha parents scramble to find transportation for students amid bus driver shortage

 

WAUKESHA, Wis. (CBS 58) -- First day back-to-school jitters were more of a parent thing Tuesday at some Waukesha schools. Families have been left to find alternate transportation for their kids because of a bus driver shortage. 

We just got word from the Waukesha School District about a late day meeting. School officials spoke with the bus company, First Student, but there's been no information on any changes.

Extended family's pitching in where possible in this last-minute scramble hitting half a dozen Waukesha schools. 

"They've got two sets of grandparents that live in town. So, we'll do it every other day with the other set of grandparents. So that works out for us," said Tim Behrendt, grandparent.

"But what's it doing to your schedule?" we asked. "Well, instead of being on the golf course or something, I’m here I guess," said Behrendt.

Nine bus routes are not running because they don't have a driver, which left parents just a few days to find carpools.

"I've been bringing kids here for years and I've never seen them. They were all parked up and down the grass area just trying to find any way they can to get the kids in their school," said Peter Hendricks, parent.

"It's a huge mess, unexpected huge mess," said parent Jennifer Walterlin.

Jennifer Walterlin's not used to this. Her 2nd grader typically takes the bus. 

"He was disappointed though, that he couldn't take the bus, and I'm like, 'I'm your bus driver,'" said Walterlin.

But driving was also a challenge with all these cars. Many parked down the street and walked back. 

"So, it was a long walk?" we asked. "It was, an unexpected walk. I was hoping I could get into the line, but the car line even goes past 59, like there's cars on 59 trying to come in," said Walterlin.

Waukesha West High School had some canceled routes too, as did those on this list. Others altered schedules to accommodate more students. 

Principals sent letters home ensuring students will be welcomed regardless of arrival time, and they're allowing kids to show up early. 

"At least the school was at least willing to offer earlier drop-off with a lot more supervision to help parents out," said Derek Damico, parent.

Despite the chaos for parents, this first day back for kids was all about seeing friends. 

Lindsay Voll made pickup extra sweet with 12-week-old Charlie. 

"We thought we'd make it extra fun since we had to do it, so, brought the puppy today," said Voll.

First Student is actively training and testing new applicants. Families should check the Waukesha School District website each day for updates on routes.