UPDATE: School Is On For Thursday!
Parents are reporting to East Haven Patch they have now received an automated call and/or email from the town confirming school will, in fact, be in session Thursday.
Update at 9:35 p.m.
The following is the email sent by the school district to parents and guardians regarding today's negotiations between the school bus drivers' union and Durham School Services:
An agreement has been reached between CSEA/SEIU Local 2001 and Durham School Services. These were difficult negotiations and we are very happy that a settlement has been reached so we can continue to safely deliver East Haven's children to school. To be clear, there will NOT be a strike tomorrow. The agreement preserves paid holidays for the bus drivers and the company has agreed to comply with Connecticut's paid sick time law.
Update at 8:45 p.m.
School will be in session tomorrow. Parents informed East Haven Patch that they have received calls informing them that classes will be held tomorrow as regularly scheduled.
East Haven Patch apologizes for the confusion of the conflicting reports.
Update at 8:36 p.m.
The town is now calling parents and guardians to confirm that there will be no school tomorrow due to the possibility of a school bus driver strike tomorrow.
At this time, there is still no word for the drivers union or the school bus company as to the status of negotiations. But as always, East Haven Patch will continue to provide updates as this story develops.
Update at 8:05 p.m.
There has been no official statement on the status of the contract negotiations between East Haven's school bus drivers' union SEIU Local 2001 and Durham School Services.
But parents are now reporting to East Haven Patch that their children, who are members of East Haven schools sports teams, have already been told by their coaches during this evening's practices that there will be no school tomorrow.
"My sons wrestling coach told him there was no school due to strike, and because of that they would have wrestling practice at 11am the next day. He was told this around 6ish," East Haven Patch reader Sharese Pelkey-Clark reported to via our Facebook page.
And frequent East Haven Patch contributor Robin Carlson also reported a short time ago on Facebook that her daughter currently is "waiting for a text on sport-related transportation for tomorrow night's away girls bball game."
A call by East Haven Patch to SEIU Local 2001 staff representative Kevin Merick earlier this evening has not yet been returned. But Merick said this morning that the negotiations could go on until the late night hours tonight before a decision was made by the union to strike.
As we have reported since last week, East Haven Patch will continue to provide updates on this developing story as more information becomes available.
Update at 10:45 a.m. on Wednesday
East Haven school bus drivers will hold a one-day strike tomorrow if an agreement between the drivers' union and bus company cannot be reached by the end of the day today, SEIU Local 2001 Staff Representative Kevin Merick told East Haven Patch this morning.
As first reported by East Haven Patch last week, union representatives and the school bus company, Durham School Services, are meeting with a federal mediator today at the American Legion Post 89 along Thompson Avenue in East Haven.
At the legion this morning, Merick confirmed that the negotiations — which are in a closed session — will be going forward throughout the day today. And they will continue until satisfactory progress is made or the two sides reach another stalemate.
When asked by East Haven Patch yesterday what the school district's plans were should the drivers strike, Superintendent of Schools Anthony Serio said Durham School Services told him they would "give me 48 hours notice" if the drivers planned to walk off the job.
Serio added that the Illinois-based bus company also told him that they "were confident an agreement would be reached" avoiding a strike.
East Haven Patch will continue to provide updates on this story as more information becomes available.
Update at 7:25 p.m. on Friday
Stephany Johnson, a director of marketing and communications for National Express Corporation — the United Kingdon-based company that owns and operates Durham School Services — responded to East Haven Patch's comment request regarding the potential for East Haven school bus drivers to strike if the federally mediated contract negotiation session Feb. 15 fails to bring the two sides closer together to a new agreement.
The following is the company's written statement, in full:
"Statements made containing alleged company positions/proposals are not factual. Durham recognizes and appreciates our employees’ commitments to transporting students to and from school safely. The company has been in negotiations, in good faith, with the union. They will be continuing the negotiations on February 15, with a federal mediator. We are working diligently and are optimistic that we will be able to reach an agreement, even in this challenging economy when we are seeing no increase from our customer."
East Haven Patch will continue to provide updates on this story as it develops.
Original Story (Thursday at 6:35 p.m.)
East Haven's school buses could soon find themselves without drivers if stalled contract negotiations between the drivers' union and the bus company that employs them continues to falter.
A "strong majority" of the East Haven school bus drivers voted Feb. 3 to authorize a strike if an agreement cannot be reached between the illinois-based Durham School Services and CSEA/SEIU Local 2001, the union that represents the drivers.
The two sides have been in contract negotiations since the beginning of the school year.
According to the union, however, driver concerns over bus safety — and alleged demands by Durham that workers give back holidays in exchange for new state-mandated sick days — have prevented an agreement from being reached.
Durham employs 51 drivers and monitors in the serve the East Haven School District.
Although East Haven Patch has been in contact with the union, the bus company did not immediately return a call this evening requesting comment for this story.
'Safety Concerns'
Local 2001 alleges that the state Department of Motor Vehicles and the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration have "initiated independent investigations after drivers were forced to report numerous mechanical and safety problems being ignored by management for long periods of time."
"Inaction by Durham School Services, who is contracted with East Haven to transport public school children, has regularly generated safety concerns at the bus yard that continue to be an issue at negotiations," the union states in its release.
New State Law
In addition to the safety issues, the union also alleges that Durham School Services is "attempting to circumvent a new a state law."
According to Local 2001, the state of Connecticut now requires that school bus drivers accrue paid sick time, "the result of a bill co-sponsored by East Haven State Representative James Albis.
"While Durham School Services is legally obligated to give sick time to their employees, they are demanding that drivers pay for their new sick days by giving up all of their paid holidays this year.," the union states in its release, adding that the company is also seeking to "retroactively charge employees for paid 2012 holidays that have passed by deducting hours from their sick time accrual."
Strike Next Week?
Failure to find middle ground on these concerns apparently lead to the Feb. 3 vote by the drivers approving the option of going on strike if the negotiations between the two sides continue to remain at a stalemate.
"We've put up with this company cutting corners long enough," Brenda Barrett, an East Haven School District bus driver, states in the union's release. "If the state says we should have sick days, we should have sick days."
CSEA/SEIU Local 2001 and Durham School Services are set to continue at a federally mediated session scheduled for Feb. 15. And it is unclear at this time that if next week's session fails to bring the two sides closer together, if the drivers will then move to go on strike.
East Haven Patch will continue to provide updates to this story as it continues to develop.
Matt Lyons
9:19 pm on Thursday, February 9, 2012
Tell em to strike the week of the 19th.
Jackie Goldberg
6:24 am on Friday, February 10, 2012
These drivers have the lives of our children in their busses everyday!!!!! They deserve to be listened to when they report a safety issue. Come on Durham.....give these drivers what they are asking for they deserve it!
Jackie Sargent
7:13 am on Friday, February 10, 2012
I second Jackie G. I cannot believe they want their drivers to pay for their sick days by giving up their holidays. Durham sounds like a bunch of crooks to me. These drivers get paid crap as it is and they don't want to keep up the maintenance on the buses either? I guess the safety of the children is last on the list.
Michelle Petroccio
9:07 am on Friday, February 10, 2012
Jackie and Jackie, you are so right! The bus drivers not only have our childrens' lives in thier hands every single day, they have a very tough job. In addition to being safe on the roads, they haveto dealwith the kids' behavior (which can sometimes be very distracting), the motorists on the road who do not pay attention to stops and signals, and the weather concerns that pop up during rain and in the snow during winter months. I havebeen fortunate to have each of my kids have very caring and cautious drivers throughout the years, and applaud these drivers for what they do. The union really needs to step up and listen to the concerns of its' employees, and the public needs to back them, especially if they have kids in the system who ride the buses. Durham may have a decent benefit package, but the drivers are so under paid.
Luigi (Jan 18th 2011) the original
9:15 am on Friday, February 10, 2012
I agree, These bus drivers should be given good wages and benefits.
It has to be one of the most stressful "driving" jobs there is.
Lise Cavallaro
9:21 am on Friday, February 10, 2012
Not to mention that parents will have to pay for more gas and take time off from work to get their kids to and from school if they strike. My son goes to Platt in Milford. Not an easy drive.
Michelle Petroccio
9:29 am on Friday, February 10, 2012
Absolutely Lisa! To top it off, the cost of gas has increased once again, and as taxpayers, we already pay for our children to ride these buses. We get double Whammied here for time and money.
School Mom
11:09 am on Friday, February 10, 2012
These Drivers get paid a decent wage, If they are so unhappy tell them to go look for another job that pays so well. They only work 180 days out of the year and are able to collect unemployment for the entire summer, and weeks off from school. Most Drive less that 4 hours a day but get paid for 6 or more. East haven hasn't had any of their buses taken off the road for safety concerns. Are you willing to drive your kid to school when these drivers strike? How will your kids get there??
I would love to work only 180 days a year. and sit home on my butt the entire summer!!
Michelle Petroccio
11:17 am on Friday, February 10, 2012
Yes, School Mom, I am willing to drive my kids to school if they strike! F.Y.I. I have friends who drive school buses for more than one company, and none of them sit on thier butts all summer. They take on charters and other programs the buses are used for. Additionally, I'd also like to say that some of these women drive because they have children of thier own, and it is a job that helps accomodate them when it comes to thier childrens' school schedules, and also allows them the affordability to spend quality time with thier kids when they are off, and not shove them into day care with strangers, while still helping to meet the family bills and expenses and be afforded health care and benefits they might not be able to acqire or pay for otherwise.
Lise Cavallaro
11:32 am on Friday, February 10, 2012
You do have a point in that in they are unhapyy thet should look elsewhere. However, knowing a few bus drivers, they often take extra driving jobs on the weekend for sports games and during the summer - like summer camp field trip. Some also take on summer jobs. None of the drivers I know sit on their butts. And yes, I will have to drive my son to school if they strike.
Jackie Sargent
11:38 am on Friday, February 10, 2012
School Mom, I also have a friend who works for the bus company and she does NOT get enough on unemployment to live. She makes very little hourly, doesn't get even 30 hours a week and then unemployment is a percentage of that. She finds other work during the summer and has never been a lazy person. She is a single mother who, at the moment, cannot find a better paying job. Have you tried "looking for another job that pays well" lately? If you have one, good for you. Not so easy for others, like her, who have gotten laid off from jobs they've had for years. You shouldn't judge.
Luigi (Jan 18th 2011) the original
11:45 am on Friday, February 10, 2012
If $12 dollars an hour for 30 hours a week is "getting paid well" I'd like to know where YOU buy your groceries and your the gas for your car. Because where I live it's awful hard to do those things on $360 gross pay per week.
Just saying..........
School Mom
11:44 am on Friday, February 10, 2012
I understand that they do this because it fits their schedule. But I also know most of them do not work summers. It's a part time job, walmart is a parttime job. most get paid well more that walmart or anyother parttime job. So if they don't like their job, look elsewhere! I this economy they should be happy to have a job. I know I am everyday!!
School Mom
11:56 am on Friday, February 10, 2012
I am bye no means judging anyone. I know some drivers as well and they are hard workers. But I also know the ones that do sit on their butts all summer, and don't do extra to make extra money. These are the same ones complaining that they don't get paid enough.
Lugi I don't know where your firgures come from but I know they get paid more that that. more like $14-16+ per hour..
Jackie Sargent
11:56 am on Friday, February 10, 2012
School Mom, your very comment "in this economy"...
Yes, in this economy JOBS ARE SCARCE! You think if some of these drivers could get a good paying, full time job with benefits, they'd be driving school buses? Yes, some do because they cannot afford daycare and it's the only job you can take your child with you, but others, do what they can. Do you know any bus drivers personally? or do you just guess on what their lives entail?
Jackie Sargent
12:05 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
So, what you're saying "school mom" with the anonymous name, is that you are basically judging and speaking for all of the Bus drivers who think they are being treated unfairly, bu the few that you know that are lucky enough to get $14 an hour? Then speak for them, not the rest who don't fit your ridiculous judgements. Do you also say the same things about teachers that have all those days off and summers too?
Luigi (Jan 18th 2011) the original
12:05 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
Mom I in your "best case" scenario, I stand corrected. $480 gross is still far from living high on the hog.....
Jacobo Arbenz
11:58 am on Friday, February 10, 2012
The 1 percenters don't have worry about this proletariat nonsense. Their children go to exclusive boarding schools like Choate or Hotchkiss. Out of sight, out of mind.
School Mom
12:12 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
I know many of them personally. I know many of they started because they had kids in school and it was easier than daycare. I get that. But it's a vicious circle. If they pay the drivers more, then the company has to get more from the Board of ED. Then they need more from the taxpayers. and it keeps going around and around. We all pay for it in the end. If they strike, they they will be responsible for leaving hundreds of school children out on the streets. Is that fair?? I am sure many parents will not be able to get their kids to school. It's a sad situation anyway you look at it.
School Mom
12:16 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
Jackie ask your friends how much they get paid? I know that more that 90% of the drivers in East Haven are above that $14.00 an hour.
working mom
12:20 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
School mom how would you know how much and how many hours a driver gets unless you work for the company and NOT as a driver, would you drive with the amount of responsibility they have for what they get and not be able to take time off when they are sick and get paid for it
School Mom
12:24 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
I know a lot of drivers, and they are very upset, with all of this strike nonsense. Most of them can't afford to lose a days pay. Which is what will happen if they strike. The Union doesn't pay them while they are out.. I feel sorry for them for having to deal with all of this crap.
Michelle Petroccio
3:56 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
So School Mom, now that you have initially attacked the drivers, you feel sorry for them?
summer butt funn
7:31 pm on Thursday, February 16, 2012
AGAIN ....
James
12:38 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
As a former driver the job does have its perks. What other Job can you take your little ones to work with you?
They must pass a test before they are allowed to drive our Children and retest basic skills often.
Also the state does random drug a alcohol testing.
They only get paid while actually working not sitting around waiting for the next scheduled bus run. and it is part time no grantee of hours
Do they deserve more In my opinion yes
School bus driver
1:23 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
I am one of the drivers who is happy with my job and my pay. If you want to make more money on a job like this you have to be wiling to work more. This is a part time job, not full time. It pays well for a part time job. I do not know of many part time jobs where you get paid what I do and get to take your bus home, take your children with you and have summers off if you choose to. I started this job when my children were young and I am still here because I love the job. If these drivers are so unhappy let them go and try to find another job paying the same or better. I have checked into other companies to see if they pay better. Yes some pay more per hour but do not offer you the hours. I am very happy with my job and I will not be one of the ones on the picket line instead I will be out driving and getting the children of east haven to and from school with safe buses. By the way DMV inspects these buses every year and they have to be safe to be on the road.
School Mom
2:01 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
I couldn't have said it better myself!
nostrikeforme.com
6:36 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
well said!!!!!!!!!!
CitizenVoice
11:20 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
School Bus Driver: You are obviously not one the "strong majority" who voted to authorize a strike. There are always a few who will try to stand in the way of the betterment of the whole group. I know for a fact the buses carrying my kids to school have broken down several times in the last few years. I've talked with the bus drivers and they are frustrated by the lack of interest in the company to keep these vehicles in good shape (at the very least). I would much prefer exellent shape, myself. I also know that some of these drivers will go to work sick fear of using up sick time. I would much rather have a situation where the drivers can concentrate on just driving their precious cargo and not have to be concerned about faulty buses, having to drive even when they're not feeling well, or carrying an attitude of "this definitely is not worth the money." This is, after all, a very important job.
driver babysiter traffic police
2:09 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
I am a school bus driver and I cannot get another part time job because my days are split in half driving your kids in the morning and driving your kids in the afternoon
driver babysiter traffic police
2:15 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
I'd like to say I love my job no I don't think I get paid enough and no we don't get enough hours in the summer or winter and you think my job is so easy I will trade with you and I do not think you would last long
Michele Antisdel
2:43 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
wow, can't believe some of these comments. Regardless of how much they get paid or how much time they get off during the summer, it is totally unfair that they are being asked to exchanged their paid days off for the sick days they will be getting. That's BS. Anyone would be upset about that, I don't care what kind of job you have. It's unfair and they have every right to be upset. They also shouldn't be driving buses that are unsafe. My daughters rides a bus to school everyday and I don't want her riding in a bus that is unsafe. The company needs to take responsibility and make sure the buses are serviced when they need it.
bus driver tooo! !
2:46 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
OK its your play money ....its my livelihood
Jackie Sargent
2:59 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
Maybe some of the people that don't agree with bus drivers being upset with not having sick days will enjoy when they have to come to work, disoriented, sneezing and hacking while trying to drive and for their children to get sick with what they have. Yup. Sounds like the bus drivers "shouldn't complain". NOT!
School bus driver
3:22 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
To driver babysitter traffic police, Like I said before I am a bus driver for Durham school services in east haven and I get enough hours all year. I have no complaints about pay. This is a part time job and if you don't like what you do than I think you need to find a new job doing something different. School bus driving was always a split Day. I don't need to trade you jobs I do the same job as you and love it and I have lasted for a very many years.
Michelle Petroccio
4:03 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
School Bus Driver, thanks for watching out for all of our kids and doing what you do to keep them safe and get them to and from school and home safely. You are appreciated by many, and what you do for work has to make you happy, because there aren't very many people out there who would want the responsibility that you take on, especially in bad weather. You must love your job and love being with the kids. There should be more people like you!
driver babysiter traffic police
3:51 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
and to school bus driver I know you probably do drive a school bus for durham but you also work in the office upstairs you are a company person how else would clam to know how much we make
Debbie
3:59 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
I do work upstairs, but I am not "school Bus driver" or anybody else on this patch. So maybe you better have your facts straight before you start accusing anyone! I am just sitting back and watching everyone else.
School bus driver
5:06 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
Michelle thank you very much for your comment. You are right I do love being with kids and I am very happy with my job.
nostrikeforme.com
6:03 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
The bus yard has 1/2 of the employees in the union and the other half that isn't in the union and WILL NOT strike, the morale itself at Durham is very poor...some drivers disrespect management so bad that they should be fired on the spot, I don't know of any job that would put up with the attitudes. They are going to strike over pennies and 3 holidays, in exchange for 5 sick days, REALLY and Durham doesn't want the reimbersment for martin luther king day that is a lie, who in their right mind would strike even if it is for one day, that would be months in pennies before getting paid back that 1 strike day...I have been a driver for Durham for many years and it accomodates my schedule and my family, and if i was that unhappy i would look somewhere else but why would i do that when i make a decent pay...this is a part-time position not full time, but there is room for extra work if u want it, we are off xmas, feb and april vacation and have te choice to work or stay home for the summer...sounds like a nice choice to me..nothing will ever be good enough for some drivers..maybe if management stopped being so nice and canned the attitudes and troublemakers in the yard morale would be different...it doesn't matter if they win or lose the negotiations nothing will ever ever make these people happy.
summer butt fun
6:29 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
To nostrikeforme... there are like 6 not in the union
School bus driver
7:56 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
very well said and I agree with you 100%
DonnaR
4:12 pm on Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Thank you for the information, those of us who are not directly involved have no other way to hear all the sides unless someone tells us. As I understand you the company(Durham) wants to remove pay (or Holiday pay) for 3 holidays (what three holidays) and give the drivers 5 sick days in the place of 3 holidays. PLEASE CORRECT ME IF WRONG. You said pennies, and I guess that represents the increase in hourly wages. You did not mention how many pennies, now maybe that isn't allowed, but if it is please expound. A question for you. Do those who are not union member get to vote, will they be paid the same as the union members, do non union workers have to pay dues to the union even if they are not members. I have a hard time understanding STRIKING Today. At a time when excessive labor costs are closing many industries, I think it is to everyone benefit to work towards a resolution
summer butt funn
7:29 pm on Thursday, February 16, 2012
WE WON IM HAPPY CLOSED SHOP !!!!!!! JUST WAVE TO YOUR FELLOW DRIVERS IT MAKES YOU LOOK REALLY BAD IF YOU DONT :)
summer butt fun
6:25 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
WELL .... now that I AM NOT driving I can also comment. For one the older drivers are on pensions or what ever else they may be on. I ON THE OTHER HAND MAKE MY MONEY BY WORKING; IT'S NOT MY PLAY MONEY IT'S MY BILL MONEY. AND I DO "SIT ON MY BUTT IN THE SUMMER AND COLLECT" I SPEND IT WITH MY KIDS!!! IT'S MY MONEY. AND AS FOR YOU SO CALLED "SCHOOL MOM" I BET YOUR CHILD TAKES THE BUS TO SCHOOL, DO YOU APPRECIATE YOUR DRIVER? PROBABLY NOT. YOUR ATTITUDE SUCKS, YOU ARE CLUE LESS, AND IF YOU ARE A DRIVER SHAME ON YOU!!!! THERE IS A LOT OF NEGATIVITY COMING FROM YOU AND YOU SEEM TO KNOW SO MUCH... DO YOU KNOW THAT DRIVERS THAT HAVE BEEN HERE AROUND 20 YEARS MAKE A $1.50 LESS THAN 7 YEAR DRIVERS? SO IS THAT FAIR? AND AS FOR MY STUDENTS, THEY WON'T BE STANDING IN THE COLD OR ON A CORNER BECAUSE PARENTS KNOW EXACTLY WHATS GOING ON SO GET OFF YOUR SO CALLED BUTT AND DRIVE YOUR KIDS TO SCHOOL "SCHOOL MOM" ... I WILL BE ONE OF THE BUS DRIVERS PICKETING. IF YOU HAVE A NEGATIVE ATTITUDE I SUGGEST YOU TRY DRIVING A SCHOOL BUS!!!!!! THAT IS IF YOU HAVE NO RECORD .....
School Mom
9:02 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
I guess someone is an angry bus driver, don't worry I will be taking my kids to school.
I feel you are being negative. and I absolutely appreciate my driver. You do still understand that it's a PART-TIME JOB!!! Go find another one. Picket if you want that is your choice, but don't be complaining about money when your butt is on the picket line not being paid!!
DonnaR
4:23 pm on Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Management has always had benefits, isn’t the reason people strive to advancement. I believe that someone said that the company was offering 5 sick days, which would certainly address the issues you explained. As to a sign on bonus, 1,500 is much less than is offered in other sectors, Nurses get really nice ones. But I have to ask why does the company feel the need to offer the sign on. Is the turn over that great, is so that is an issue for me as trained competent drivers are what we as towns people want, not the cheapest and constant turnovers.
Keep talking, I bet you can resolve this.
summer butt funn
7:22 pm on Thursday, February 16, 2012
SCHOOL MOM .... SO HOW DO YOU FEEL NOW ? AND NO NOT ANGRY BUS DRIVER :::::: VERY HAPPY SATISFIED SCHOOL BUS DRIVER THANK YOU I KNOW I HAVE FRIENDS ...:)
Makes u wonder
6:30 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
Durham bus drivers are great drivers and very respectful. I appreciate what they do and it is their right to try to get more money or fight for what they think they deserve. 1) I'm confused over sick days for a part time job? 2) These bus drivers for what I am hearing get paid pretty good money for the hours they work. 3) I think it is a big benefit to take the bus home during hours they are off and being able to take their kids on the bus and being off the days their kids are off.....In the end we all think we are underpaid for what we do...But, from what I'm reading it doesn't sound like these drivers are underpaid for a "PART TIME" job...
summer butt fun
6:40 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
Is it fair that someone who's been driving your children for twenty years makes only $1.50 more than someone who's been here less than ten?
donna
7:04 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
sounds like the two that are sticking up for the company are in a management position for durham. who get paid well, get sick time, vacation time and all the perks that the drivers dont. the drivers cant even call out sick without getting an ear full that the runs cant be covered without them. and how do you think the drivers feel about durham offering licenced drivers $1500.00 sign on bounes and they wont even give the current drivers a 3% raise. come you two management people answere this one.
School bus driver
8:13 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
I am not in management I am just a driver. I have been doing this for a long time and right now is not the time to be pushing for more money. Let any one of these drivers go and find a part time job that pays what this one does. Also part time jobs do not come with sick days. Most school bus companies only promise you 4 hrs a day. I get more than that here you just have to be willing to take the work when it comes. I will do whatever it takes to make a decent paycheck. A lot of these drivers get away with a lot with there attitudes, telling management what they are going to do and what they are not going to do. If I was in management there would be a lot of changes.
nostrikeforme.com
9:11 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
I am just a driver too! I am glad i am not in management because the same drivers and NOT ALL that want a strike are the ones that disrespect management. any other job they would have been gone a long time ago.
donna
7:34 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
it all ball down to we are bus driver who take care of your kids about 25 minute everyday to school and home we love our job other while we would not be doing it . some other people have other income .this is some only job when. you pay 95.00 a week for health insurance you have a right to count every penn iie. you make so we as bus drivers should stick together unsteady of trying to discredit one another because in the long run the drivers that fighting for better wages everyone will get the increase .we just want company to realize if it was for the drivers they would not have a contract so if you not going to support up do not say anything at all no one can afford to walk the pickett line bus guess what you have to do what you have to do . to all the parent we just want better wages we love our job and kids and our job we want better wages.----------------------
Julie Weisberg
7:44 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
Everyone: I just received an emailed statement from a spokesperson for National Express Corporation, the UK-based company that owns and operates Durham School Services, regarding the contract negotiations and potential for a drivers' strike next week. The article has been updated to include the statement in full.
Skip Thomas
9:12 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
A job is not a right. It's a privilege. If you want to eat, you get a job. If you want to keep the job you do as asked/told. If you want to get ahead in that job, you do as asked (always) and perhaps do a little more.
I've had part time jobs. I never had a paid holiday, sick leave, health insurance or vacation. I never thought I was owed any of that either. Those that wish to strike, strike. Perhaps you will be replaced by drivers that care more about working hard and keeping my child safe than some perceived "entitlements". I won't apologize if you think this is harsh. As I approach 50 years, I've decided that I can should be able to opine without fear. I've worked my butt off to get to this point. I deserve it.
For those seeking fairness: my Mom always taught me, "Life is NOT fair!" Wise words for all.
"School Bus Driver" sounds like my son's driver. My son loves him.
School bus driver
9:33 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
Could not have said it better!!!!
nostrikeforme.com
7:18 am on Saturday, February 11, 2012
always listen to mom! great advice words to live by.
Michelle Petroccio
9:36 am on Monday, February 13, 2012
Skip, your mom is a wise woman, I know her fairly well! She must have been doing something very right, look how you turned out, and how you are raising that great boy of yours! My kids love thier drivers too, and I must say, that some of the kids on thier buses are real handfuls, the drivers don't put it with it, and strongly encourage good behavior. These drivers have quite a bit to deal with, hats off to them for the patience they display, and keeping our kids all safe!
summer butt funn
7:16 pm on Thursday, February 16, 2012
CHECK THIS OUT SKIP ......CLOSED SHOP....
summer butt funn
7:35 pm on Thursday, February 16, 2012
LIFE IS VERY FAIR SKIP
School Mom
9:35 pm on Friday, February 10, 2012
I agree!
summer butt fun
7:50 am on Saturday, February 11, 2012
Well the so called drivers for east haven that think everything is good for a"part time job" are the ones that are AK'S now I'm sure u know who u are and I'm sure u get a lot of hours !! THAT'S why you are ak's and I'm sure your bus is running when u get to work in the mornings!!!!
nostrikeforme.com
9:39 am on Saturday, February 11, 2012
summer butt fun, my bus is never running in the morning, if you forgot there is a 3min. idle law, we have been very fortunate over the years that are buses were started and nice and warm for us when we got to work but since te new ct law that has changed, i bet u will blame the company for that to. I am not an AK..i am not getting into a who is right and wrong contest with u. i have coworkers who are in the union and want to strike and that i respect very much and some that aren't to each is own..i have a bills that need to be paid and this job puts food on my table. u made a comment about drivers being there 15+ yrs and new drivers making 1.50 less than them. this strike doesnt change that even if negotiations rule in your favor the 15yr drivers will still make only 1.50 more than a new driver so really how does that help me in the long run, unless the cap in our years with the company change it doesn't benefit me to be on the line..i wish you and my other coworkers goodluck, it is a part time position for me not full time. an it is attitudes of drivers like u that morale is so bad.
summer butt funn
7:14 pm on Thursday, February 16, 2012
MY MORALE ARE YOU KIDDING ME AND IM SORRY ABOUT YOUR CAP THING BUTT GUESS WHAT.......CLOSED SHOP :)
driver babysiter traffic police
9:43 am on Saturday, February 11, 2012
to all that disagree with the drivers, i will stand beside the drivers and walk the picket line because the truth is this. it is true that the dmv does inspect the busses but 1 or 2 days before the dmv gets in the yard they bring in extra mechanic,s to try to get the busses that they KNOW will be inspected ready to pass, and that is why they have never had busses pulled off the road for violations! as far as pay we do not all make the same pay some do make 14 or 16:00 per hour but those drivers have been driveing for this co. for 12 - 20 years all they want is 3% pay raise and their holidays and sick days we all know that children get sick and they pass it to every one it is not their falt nor is it mine so my question is do you want us to be the best we can be on the road we have to keep your children safe and it is not easy when you are sick .
.ask your kids if their busses have mechanical problums and they will tell you the truth yes !. i do deserve more money and i do deserve sick time and holidays ps my kids will not be out in the cold if we strike because i have all their cell phone no# i will personally call every one so they will not be out side in the weather I AM PROUD TO HAVE DRIVEN AND BEEN A PART OF THEIR LIVES
School bus driver
11:51 am on Saturday, February 11, 2012
I am not an AK. I just do my job and any extras that I am asked to do. You call me an AK because I like to work and will take on any extras that come my way no matter what it may be. I respect the management and do what they ask me to. Most managers would not even put up with a lot of the things the drivers do in this yard. My bus like everone elses is not started in the morning. Did you forget we have the 3 min law. Why are you taking your bus out if it is not safe? You do a pre trip in the morning and if you find something that is unsafe you do not take the bus out or you have the mechanic fix it. I will say it again this is only a part time job and if you want full time pay and benefits go find a full time job that has all that. We get paid good for a part time job and have a lot of perks that come with it. Where are you going to work where you can take the company vehicle home, take your kids with you, and be able to have the same days off that your kids do? I dont know of any. I will not be on the picket line, I do not believe there is enough on the line to go on strike.
summer butt funn
7:11 pm on Thursday, February 16, 2012
ALL I HAVE TO SAY TO YOU IS CLOSED SHOP :)
Coldstudent
10:13 pm on Saturday, February 11, 2012
I am a student of east haven high school. I am the 2nd pick up of the bus ride and the bus is absolulty freezing. It was so cold a few days ago that I was shaking the whole way to school. I think it might have been warmer out side of the bus...
Busdriversdaughter
10:20 pm on Saturday, February 11, 2012
How do you expect these drivers to get a second job? My mom is a driver, she drives from around 7 to 9:30, then goes back in at around 12:30, and doesn't get home til almost 4:30. When would she have time for a second job? Please tell me that.
Busdriversdaughter
10:31 pm on Saturday, February 11, 2012
Also. Well.. Everyone to go at 9:30 including parents. Come see what durham has to offer. It's at the American legion on Thompson Ave in East Haven. Come one, come all, the more the merrier.
-from my mom
Donna
11:57 am on Sunday, February 12, 2012
I think folks need to explore at other Durham sites to the conditions of the buses.
Donna
12:23 pm on Sunday, February 12, 2012
I don't drive bus in your community. Our (Durham) drivers have experienced the same problems with our buses with the lack of maintenance. "Children and Bus Drivers" need to be safe every day. Parents and taxpayer need to help and take a stand to get safe buses for there children. Drivers can't do it without your help. The more voices from the public demanding that the repairs are done your children ride safe on the buses . Drivers lose there jobs and become a target because the try to keep your children safe. These bus driver need your help from community. Show your support on this safety matter. The drivers have taken a stand for your children to keep them sake.
willstrikeifneedbe
10:39 pm on Sunday, February 12, 2012
I was talking about. The negotiations when I said Wed at 9:30 that's the meeting between drivers and Durham to here what they wanna offer this time.we can all see what they have to say.AMERICAN LEGION, THOMPSON AVE EAST HAVEN OFF OF MAIN. STREET
driver 2
11:19 am on Monday, February 13, 2012
Everyone needs to go to the American legion on Feb 15 at 930am and hear what they want to give drivers or should I say not give drivers and make your own choice on weither or not to strike I will be out there with everyone if they do not give us what we want which is not very much everyone including all parents should come Feb 15 to hear what Durham wants to give/take away from drivers and yes I know this is a part time job
Butter
3:57 am on Wednesday, February 15, 2012
To be honest it is a part-time job but at the end of the day it really a full time job because they are dealing with your child. Just think they are taking the responsible as parents when your child step on the bus. So instead of having a job of driving the bus to school and home, they have to make sure the childrens are safe. But if the driver have to come in sick, buses not in good/safe conditions is not safe at all. These bus drivers are just out for their selves but also for your children safety as well. If everybody stop look on the outside of big/small yellow bus and get under hood then you will see what these drivers are talking about. Being treated unfair for the longest. I support my Mom and everyone that with the union.
DonnaR
11:15 am on Wednesday, February 15, 2012
I think we should all know what the negotiating issues are. You Know like a public forum. Lets open all negotiations involving public jobs to the public.
PATRIOT
12:02 pm on Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Wow, I applaud all the the comments on this article, this has been a wonderful debate. no personal attacks, no name calling. School Bus Driver, if you ever need a job, my company would hire you in a minute.
Luigi (Jan 18th 2011) the original
12:04 pm on Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Yeah.....and let's not make a habit of this!
It'd get boring........
Luigi (Jan 18th 2011) the original
12:05 pm on Wednesday, February 15, 2012
just kidding!!
DonnaR
8:43 pm on Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Not boring just informative, and isn't that what it is all about. Who knows, a resolution could be found amoung the parties, and wouldn't that be something..
James
9:07 pm on Wednesday, February 15, 2012
The truth is a lot of these Drivers are single mothers struggling to make ends meet.
all they want is sick time so they can afford to stay home when sick and holiday pay so they get paid when school is closed for a holiday. Not a lot to ask How would you like it if your job says you have a choice sick time or holiday pay also the bus company had to bid for the privilege of driving our Children to school so the town wants the best for their dollar. Most Drivers love their job and they do earn every dollar
Julie Weisberg
9:16 pm on Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Everyone: Just to clarify — THERE WILL BE SCHOOL TOMORROW!! Sorry for the confusion.
@Jenn Santarcangelo
9:18 pm on Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Headline says school is on for tomorrow - article says it's cancelled. Which is it?! I missed the automated call . . .
@Jenn Santarcangelo
9:15 pm on Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Nevermind LOL
sum er butt fun
9:49 pm on Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Well. We did it united we stand. We all stuck together and I think we accomplished a lot for those of u who were not there ......WE ARE A CLOSED SHOP ....WE DID IT LUV U GUYS :)
DonnaR
9:29 am on Thursday, February 16, 2012
For those of us who don't understand what is a Closed Shop??
summer butt funn
6:51 pm on Thursday, February 16, 2012
WELL A CLOSED SHOP MEANS THAT... you have to pay for the union even if you dont want the union there . we were fighting for a closed shop for years and now we got it so yes we are very happy and thanks everyone !!!!!
sum er butt fun
9:58 pm on Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Roses are Red
VIolets. Are Blue
Shoe is on other foot
Now whatcha gonna do <3 :)
summer butt funn
7:08 pm on Thursday, February 16, 2012
united we stand
seperate we fall
THats what people wanted" butt "THAT DIDNT HAPPEN .......
and i hope im not offending anyone , butt we did it and now the cows all fell down !!!!
James
9:42 am on Thursday, February 16, 2012
A Closed shop = You are required to pay union dues to work here
James
9:46 am on Thursday, February 16, 2012
Sum Er Butt fun
Did your union reach an agreement with management?
If so good for you
summer butt funn
6:47 pm on Thursday, February 16, 2012
TY AND AND YES WE DID :)
Michelle Petroccio
10:23 am on Thursday, February 16, 2012
The bus schedule was on time for my kids as usual today! Thanks to all of you drivers once again, and I am happy that you made progress with your issues and complaints! Hopefully, you have been recognized and appreciated by your employer.