With more than 70 bus drivers out, Richmond schools switch to virtual
Richmond Public Schools will have a virtual learning day on Wednesday, after more than half of the district's bus drivers called out of work.
As of last summer, the district employed 127 school bus drivers.
In an email blast, the district also cited "an increase in buildings facing power difficulties." RPS spokesperson Alyssa Schwenk said six facilities have had power issues since this morning.
A forecasted snow on Tuesday brought some precipitation, but quickly turned to rain, which is expected to continue through the day on Wednesday.
"Streets were forecasted (and are) mostly clear in the city, so our plan was to open on a delayed schedule, alongside the City of Richmond, and the hundreds of local businesses where our parents and caregivers are expected to report for work today," said Schwenk in an email. "The increasing number of power outages at school sites, coupled with the operational challenges in the Transportation department, shifted our decision on whether we could safely and fully operate in-person today."
Sean Sublette
In its email to parents and caregivers, the school district acknowledged the closure "may cause frustration."
"Please understand that our first priority is always safety — and we know that for many of our students and families, school is a place to access critical resources. We apologize for any inconvenience and will see you in person tomorrow," the message continued.
Hanover, Henrico and Chesterfield schools will also be closed on Wednesday, with Henrico students learning virtually as well.
Schwenk said that by contract, bus drivers get one sick day per month, as well as three days of paid time off every year, and are paid for days when schools are closed for weather and crisis events. She said she was unsure about what type of leave most drivers requested Wednesday.
This story has been updated with additional information about bus drivers and power outages.
