Public Invited to Offer Input on School Walking Distance
Parents and other interested people are invited to offer input into a review of how far students should walk before they are eligible to take a bus to school.
The review, launched in June, will determine if the legislated maximum school walking distance of 3.6 kilometres is reasonable.
"What Nova Scotians, and particularly parents, have to say about the distance students are required to walk will be an important part of our review," said Education Minister Karen Casey. "We all need to be satisfied that students are walking a reasonable distance to school in conditions that are safe."
Members of the public can submit opinions in writing by mail, e-mail or fax to:
Department of Education Student Walking Distance Review Chester Sabean, Review Consultant 60 Lorne St., Suite 3 Truro, N.S. B2N 3K3 Email: morrislj@gov.ns.ca Fax: 902-893-6104
Deadline for submissions is Friday, Sept. 28.
Education Act regulations require school boards to provide busing to students if they live more than 3.6 kilometres from school. However, some boards have opted to provide service to students who live much closer.
Boards are also obligated to provide transportation to students with special needs, regardless of distance.
The review is being led by retired school board administrator Chester Sabean. He is being supported by a six-person advisory committee of school board and department representatives, and a school bus driver.
A final report with recommendations will be made to the minister later this fall.