Mass. National Guard completes school transportation mission

The Massachusetts National Guard completed their school transportation mission on Nov. 5, after the 13 districts that requested assistance were able to meet transportation demands using civilian drivers. Guard members were initially recruited to assist amid a shortage of bus drivers.

“The Commonwealth is grateful to the men and women of the Massachusetts National Guard for answering the call and supporting the safe transportation of students in communities across Massachusetts,” said Governor Charlie Baker.

Baker first activated the Massachusetts National Guard for the school transportation mission at the start of the school year on Sept. 14, as districts were asking the state for assistance with the shortage.

“By working collaboratively with local districts who requested assistance, the Guard was able to provide critical school transportation support at a time when schools, students and families needed it most,” Baker said.

The state order was able to recruit 250 guards to provide transportation in Brockton, Chelsea, Framingham, Haverhill, Holyoke, Lawrence, Lowell, Lynn, Quincy, Revere, Wachusett, Woburn, and Worcester. A total of 14,626 student pick-ups and drop-offs were completed safely across 3,002 routes during the nearly two-month span.

“Time and again throughout its history, the Massachusetts National Guard has stepped up to serve the communities of our Commonwealth, and that has never been more true than during the last year and a half,” said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito.

The state reported that 40 guards provided operational support to the mission while 190 guards became certified to drive the transport vans used during the mission. These drivers also completed background screenings, driving trainings, and health and safety reviews required for school transportation workers, according to the state.

A total of 329,224 miles were driven during the mission.

“We appreciate the professionalism and dedication of the members of the Guard who supported this mission, and thank them for their service,” Polito said.

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