2022-01-14
Dear Parents, Guardians and Students
RESPONDING TO THE OMICRON VARIANT

With the Province returning to in person learning on January 17th 2022, the NPSSTS and its stakeholders are preparing to deal with yet another variant that could affect student transportation.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Drivers are required to follow all Provincially mandated screening requirements prior to reporting for work including isolation requirements if symptomatic;
• Spare driver levels are at their lowest levels in years due to the Pandemic;
• OMICRON is more transmissible and therefore the potential for fewer drivers being available in the short-term is a greater possibility.

WHAT WE ARE DOING

• The NPSSTS and bus companies will ensure that early and accurate Route Delay and Route Doubling issues are posted to the NPSSTS Delays Page on our website including more frequent updates;
• Drivers will be provided with Rapid Antigen Tests to facilitate an earlier return to work where negative test results are obtained and symptoms improve, but they must be 24 to 48 hours apart;
• The NPSSTS and bus companies are developing strategies to mitigate the impact of driver shortages through route doubling before considering cancellations, but this can lead to some delays.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO

• Please stay current with the NPSSTS Delays Page for updated bus information;
• Review your options in your existing Inclement Weather Plan in the event of a cancellation and, where possible add to them including the potential for carpooling where possible;
• Ensure that students are dressed for the weather conditions;
• If you have chosen alternate transportation in the short-term, advise the bus company directly.
  We thank you for your patience and cooperation.

Yours truly,
Chuck Seguin
Executive Director – NPSSTS