Akron Public Schools Rejects Resolution Outlining how District Would Transport Homeless Students and Students with Special Needs
Source: https://www.wkyc.com/
As Akron Public Schools prepares to transport about 1,200 homeless and special needs students for the upcoming school year, legal questions remain unresolved. The Akron Board of Education approved two resolutions permitting the transportation of these students, as mandated by law, but rejected a resolution detailing the specific transportation plan. Brandy Vickers, spokesperson for over 140 Independent Contract Operators (ICOs) who transport special needs students for Akron Public Schools, expressed relief that the school board is scrutinizing the administration’s statements about the contractors.
Key Highlight:
- In early May, Brandy Vickers and other Independent Contract Operators (ICOs) expressed concerns about Akron Public Schools spending more on two external companies to transport fewer students compared to ICOs. The district explained that the higher cost was due to the additional services provided by the companies, such as logistics and payroll. For the 2023-24 school year, the district spent $7.1 million on transportation, with $3.6 million going to ICOs for nearly 1,100 students, and the remainder allocated to KBT Transit LLC and UTC Transit LLC.
- In June, the Akron School Board rejected a resolution to contract exclusively with Templeton Transportation LLC, which would have ended the district’s long-standing relationship with Independent Contract Operators (ICOs). Vickers, a spokesperson for the ICOs, argued that their services have been effective for 50 years, questioning the need for change. At a recent meeting, the board also tabled a resolution involving Templeton, despite its low bid of $27.86 per student. Board member Barbara Sykes warned that proceeding with Templeton could lead to lawsuits from other vendors, prompting applause from the audience.
- The Akron School Board was considering two options: using both ICOs and Templeton Transportation LLC, or switching exclusively to Templeton. Board member Barbara Sykes argued that since Templeton’s option had already been rejected, the board needed to formally reconsider it and that not revisiting all 14 original bidders might violate the RFP process. Superintendent Michael Robinson stated that the district’s attorney assured them they were not breaking any laws. The board plans to seek further legal clarification before their next meeting on August 12.
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