Dear SMS Parents,
Late last week, I was contacted by the superintendent of the Georgetown school district, and he informed me that students who do not live in the Georgetown school district are no longer allowed to ride the Georgetown bus effective September 8. The timing on this is obviously very difficult, and I asked if we could work together to come up with a solution that would benefit both the Georgetown school district and our families.
The superintendent was adamant that it is not the responsibility of the Georgetown school district to transport anyone other than students within their district, which by law, he is correct. After discussing the matter, the superintendent agreed that students from out of district would be able to ride the bus for a fee. We absolutely acknowledge the law and were hoping for a fee that would be affordable for families. Tuesday of this week, I received an email from the treasurer of school district, explaining that any student from out of district who would want to ride the bus would have to pay a fee of $1,429 per student. We understand that this fee is extremely high especially for families with multiple children, and we are working on options for our families who are hurt by this policy. If you are one of these families, affected by this decision, please contact me and I will work tirelessly to find a solution for your family. This policy will go into action beginning Monday, September 11.
Again, this does not affect students who reside in the Georgetown school district, the bus will continue to run as scheduled.
Additionally, if you live in the Eastern School District, I encourage you to reach out to the district office regarding transportation. Eastern is required by state law to provide bussing for students in their district to SMS, or provide compensation in lieu of transportation of each student. Eastern has been very upfront about this, and we appreciate their cooperation, but to get this funding, you must reach out to Eastern.
Please know that we are and will continue to work behind the scenes provide the best possibilities for all of our families.
God Bless,
Andy Arn
Principal, St. Michael School