Jerome, Idaho, August 26, 2025
News Summary
The Jerome School District canceled classes for two days due to significant bus transportation issues that left students stranded. Classes resumed with new protocols, allowing only students with confirmed bus routes to ride. The district has also introduced a walking zone and scheduled a meeting to discuss ongoing concerns with parents. Despite these measures, inconsistencies in bus eligibility have been reported, prompting further clarification.
Jerome, Idaho – The Jerome School District canceled classes for two days last week, on August 21 and 22, to address significant bus transportation issues that left many students stranded well past the end of the school day. Following this disruption, classes resumed on Monday, August 25, with new protocols designed to improve the situation.
Transportation chaos erupted after a redesigned routing system was introduced along with an increase in the number of student bus riders, from 950 to 1,300. As a result, many students reported being left at school until after 6:30 p.m., creating frustration among parents who described the scenario as an “absolute fiasco.” Cars lined up outside schools as parents opted to drive their children rather than rely on the bus service.
To help streamline bus service, the Jerome School District has implemented new rules starting the week of August 25. Only students with confirmed bus routes will be allowed to ride. Those without confirmed routes will remain at school until their parents can pick them up. The district has taken steps to contact parents and confirm addresses and ridership information to ensure accuracy in the updated bus system.
Amid these new policies, parents have reported inconsistencies. One parent noted that their third-grader faced disqualification from bus service, despite being registered. The Jerome School District has not provided an explanation regarding the sudden changes in bus eligibility.
A key point of the revised bus service plan includes a new walking zone which has been established at half a mile around schools. However, exceptions will apply near Jerome High School, extending this zone to one mile for major road crossings. Parents are advised to review updated bus routes and stops on the Jerome School District’s website.
While schools implement these adjustments, the district requests that parents strictly adhere to designated drop-off and pick-up zones, especially at Horizon Elementary School, where specific traffic lane adjustments are also taking effect. Notably, new riders will not be accepted during the week as the focus will be on stabilizing the routine for existing students.
A meeting has been scheduled for Tuesday, August 26, at 6 p.m. at the district office to address ongoing transportation concerns and foster better communication with parents. This meeting aims to discuss any remaining issues and gather feedback to avoid future disruptions.
In summary, following a tumultuous start to the school year, the Jerome School District is taking measured steps to ensure a more reliable and organized transportation system. Parents are encouraged to stay informed regarding the updates as the district navigates these changes.
Key Features of the Bus Transportation Changes
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Class Cancellations | Classes were canceled on August 21 and 22 due to bus chaos. |
| Increased Riders | Bus ridership grew from 950 to 1,300 students. |
| Pickup Restrictions | Only registered students with confirmed routes may ride the bus. |
| New Walking Zones | Half a mile walking distance with a mile exception near major roads. |
| Meeting Scheduled | A meeting to discuss transportation issues is set for August 26. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the class cancellations?
Classes were canceled due to significant transportation issues that left many students stranded after school.
When did classes resume?
Classes resumed on Monday, August 25, following the cancellations.
What are the new rules for bus transportation?
Only students with confirmed bus routes can ride the buses, and those without will remain at school until their parents can pick them up.
What is the walking distance for students?
The walking zone has been set to half a mile around schools, with a mile exception for major road crossings near Jerome High School.
Is there a meeting to address transportation concerns?
Yes, a meeting is scheduled for August 26 at 6 p.m. at the district office to discuss transportation issues and gather feedback.
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Additional Resources
- KIVI TV: Jerome Students Return to Classes
- Wikipedia: School Transportation
- KMVT: School District Addresses Transportation Issues
- Google Search: Jerome School District Transportation Issues
- Magic Valley: Jerome School District Transportation Update
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School
- KTVB: Jerome School District Cancels Classes Due to Bus Issues
- Google News: Jerome Idaho School Issues
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