Sep 14, 2021 - Health

Massachusetts activates National Guard to help with school transportation

Oriana González

School buses on a lot at Washington St. and Melnea Cass Blvd. August 29, 2019 in BOSTON, Massachusetts. — School buses on a lot at Washington St. and Melnea Cass Blvd. on Aug. 29, 2019 in Boston. Photo: Chris Christo/MediaNews Group/Boston Herald via Getty Images

Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker (R) on Monday activated the state's National Guard to assist with school transportation.

Driving the news: Schools across the country are experiencing a shortage of bus drivers, which has worsened during the coronavirus pandemic. More than 80% of school districts reported having issued finding an adequate number of drivers.

State of play: Baker said in a press release that 250 guard personnel will become available for the task.

They will need to complete vehicle training "to ensure the safety of children and families."
Training is scheduled to start Tuesday, with 90 guard members being sent to help in the cities of Chelsea, Lawrence, Lowell and Lynn.
The guard members will operate vans known as "7D vehicles," which are smaller than regular school buses.

What they're saying: "The Guard has a proven track record of success supporting civilian authorities. Their frequent side-by-side training with state and local first responders makes them well-suited for a variety of missions," Baker said.

Of note: The governor said that the mission will not interfere with the National Guard's ability to respond to emergencies within the state.

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Massachusetts activates National Guard to help with school transportation

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