As a resident of Simcoe County, ON, Canada and a parent to school-going children, I am deeply concerned about the safety of our student transportation system. My children and I struggle to safely access the bus stop during the harsh winter months. This is not just our story; many families across Simcoe County face similar challenges.

The transportation company has some of us walking a kilometre to our bus locations, with some having to walk even further. This also poses challenges to those of us who have to walk a considerable distance from our homes during harsh weather conditions. 

Additionally, there are usually delays with the buses’ scheduled arrival times. This furthers the stress, anxiety and peril we face daily. The latest delay was over 3 and a half hours later than the regular scheduled arrival time. 

According to Transport Canada's statistics, Ontario experiences some of the highest numbers of road accidents during winter months due to poor weather conditions (Transport Canada). This risk is exacerbated for students who have to navigate treacherous routes just to reach their bus stops.

The current situation puts our children's safety at risk and disrupts their education. We need a solution that ensures safe and accessible student transportation throughout the year - regardless of weather conditions.

We call on local authorities in Simcoe County to take immediate action. We urge them to implement measures such as providing alternative accessible transportation, provision for alternative safe routes during severe weather conditions and re-evaluating bus stop locations based on the concerns raised by parents and caregivers.

Our children deserve safe access to education all year round. Please sign this petition urging local authorities in Simcoe County to make student transportation safely accessible throughout each season.