Parents Demand Action as Overcrowding Raises Safety Concerns on Charlotte School Buses

Parents Voice Concerns Over Packed Charlotte School Bus

In Charlotte, a recent issue with overcrowded school buses has sparked concern among parents of high school students at the newly opened Ballantyne Ridge High School. A video recorded by a ninth grader from the school reveals a packed bus where some students found themselves standing in the aisle due to a lack of available seats. This situation raises serious safety questions, prompting worried parents to take action.

Students Left Stranded in Aisles

C’Nyia Rembert, who rides the bus daily, noted that problems began as soon as the second week of school. With more students than seats available, bus rides have turned into a stressful experience. “They’ll yell out, ‘There’s nowhere to sit,’” she reported, indicating that the bus driver merely responds with “Find a seat,” leaving students with few options.

This worry about overcrowding isn’t just limited to C’Nyia. Her father, Carlos Rembert, expressed his frustration with the situation, suggesting that it seems the school district didn’t fully anticipate the number of transfers coming from South Mecklenburg High School to the new facility. “I think when they did the zoning, they really didn’t consider how many kids would transfer,” he explained. This oversight has led to overcrowding and increasing concerns for student safety.

Communication Challenges with the School District

After experiencing the bus issues firsthand, Carlos attempted to communicate with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) district to voice his concerns. However, he faced challenges reaching someone who could help. “I literally sat on the phone for 30 minutes,” he shared, his frustration clear. “No one came to the phone when the office opened.” Such delays in communication only add to parents’ anxiety regarding the safety of their children on these packed bus rides.

Urgency for a Solution

C’Nyia’s mother, Candace Brazzle, also voiced her concerns during a recent phone call. She expressed the urgent need for the district to address the issue promptly. “These kids could go flying out the window, flying on top of each other,” Brazzle pointed out, highlighting the potential dangers involved in the current situation. She added that any unforeseen incident, like the bus rolling over or being hit, could lead to dire consequences. The underlying message is clear: safety must come first.

CMS Responds to Concerns

In light of the parents’ concerns, Channel 9 reached out to the CMS district for clarification. A spokesperson stated that they are aware of the issue regarding the overcrowded bus situation and are currently reviewing it. “We are looking into this issue and will get back to you soon,” was the promise, indicating that further action may be on the horizon.

Join the Conversation

As the community waits for a resolution, many parents are encouraged to voice their concerns and experiences, fostering an ongoing dialogue around student safety and transportation needs. With students returning to classrooms and the daily commute becoming more critical than ever, it’s vital that solutions are prioritized to ensure that all children have a safe travel environment.

It’s a moment of unity among parents, students, and the community of Charlotte, as they all rally together for a common cause: ensuring their children can attend school safely and comfortably. Let’s hope CMS addresses this urgent issue swiftly and adequately.