Ontario School Bus Cancellations: How Decisions Are Made by School Boards
As winter arrives, Ontario families often wonder about school bus cancellations during severe weather. The decision-making process for these cancellations can vary significantly among school boards.
Decision-Making Regarding Ontario School Bus Cancellations
The Toronto District School Board (TDSB) is one of Canada’s largest educational institutions. According to TDSB’s website, the decision to cancel bus services or close schools is made early in the morning. A dedicated team that includes the director, associate director, and transportation staff reviews critical factors such as weather forecasts and road conditions.
Notification and Impact
- The TDSB announces cancellations by 6 a.m. on its website and social media.
- Around 93% of students do not rely on school buses, allowing the board to cancel transportation while keeping schools open.
- Closing all schools would affect 239,000 students, leaving many families without childcare options.
Other School Boards in Ontario
The York Region District School Board (YRDSB) follows a similar approach. They also make decisions by 6 a.m., ensuring that all school-provided transport, including specialized vehicles, is cancelled for both morning and afternoon sessions. On these days, students are not marked absent, and parents can choose whether to send their children to school.
In Ottawa, the Ottawa Student Transportation Authority (OSTA) manages transportation for the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board. OSTA assesses weather forecasts and road conditions and collaborates with neighboring transport authorities. Notifications about cancellations are shared with families around 5:30 a.m. via the OSTA website and social media channels.
Staying Informed
As winter conditions worsen across Ontario, families are encouraged to stay updated by checking school board websites and local weather reports. The primary goal remains the safety of students and drivers during challenging winter weather.
