As residents of Greystone Estates, Piper Hills, and High Valley neighborhoods, we are deeply concerned about the current state of our bus service. Our neighborhoods are feeder areas for Whiteside Middle School and Elementary Schools, and the current quantity and quality of bus services are unacceptable. It is distressing to see many of our children missing important educational milestones such as the first bell, breakfast, and the start of the first period due to tardy buses. Moreover, overcrowding on these buses has reached an alarming level, where children are forced to sit on the floor due to lack of space. This situation not only disrupts their academic performance but also jeopardizes their safety.

We demand immediate action from the City of Belleville, the Belleville School District, including its principals and superintendents, and the Whiteside School Board to address this pressing issue. While we understand there is a nationwide bus driver shortage, this is fundamentally a safety concern that cannot be overlooked. It is wholly inappropriate and unacceptable that students are not arriving at school on time and in a safe manner.

Additionally, we demand the implementation of GPS tracking systems and live updates to improve communication and transparency. Families need access to real-time information about bus locations and delays, especially during inclement weather or late-running services. Such technology is widely used in school districts across the country and has proven to enhance efficiency, safety, and peace of mind for parents and students alike.

According to the American School Bus Council, a well-regulated and effectively supervised school bus system can reduce tardiness by up to 70%. In light of such statistics, we urge the relevant local authorities to:

Provide additional buses to meet the needs of these neighborhoods.
Redesign the existing bus routes and schedules to ensure timely arrivals.
Take immediate measures to address the overcrowding and safety issues on buses.
Implement GPS tracking with live updates for parents and students.
Our children deserve better. Their safety, education, and well-being must be a priority for all stakeholders involved. This issue requires urgent attention and swift action to build a future where no child has to miss out on their education or endure unsafe travel conditions to school.

Sign this petition to demand better bus services and GPS tracking for Greystone Estates, Piper Hills, and High Valley neighborhoods. Together, we can make a difference.