Many families in our district, including my own, depend on school transportation services to ensure our kids can get to school safely and on time. The proposed changes to school transportation eligibility, up for vote on May 20, threaten to disrupt the daily routines and safety of many students - especially those whose parents are unable to transport them due to work commitments.

Under the new proposition, students in grades K-8 will have to live more than a mile away from their school to be eligible for transportation services, a substantial increase from the current half mile. The same goes for grades 9-12, but with yet another stipulation - they will have to reside more than one mile and less than 15 miles from their school to qualify.

Our neighborhood lacks sidewalks, forcing children to cross major intersections, without crossing guards for their safety. Moreover, our middle schoolers carry heavy backpacks, filled with books,  chromebooks and sometimes band instruments, which they have to lug to and from school over considerable distances. These hurdles discourage education and hinder learning.

We urge you to reconsider these proposed changes. Our children's safety and education should be prioritized above budget cuts. Say 'No' on May 20 to the transportation eligibility changes. Stand with our children – sign this petition today.