DAYTON, Ohio-Peris Thomas, a senior at Meadowdale High School, advocates for legislation allowing all public school students in Ohio to use public transportation for free. She and other students met with legislative aides in Columbus to address the issue of insufficient school buses in Dayton Public Schools.
Many students currently rely on the Greater Dayton RTA for transportation but face challenges with schedules and availability of bus passes. Thomas emphasized the impact on students’ health and responsibilities outside of school. Legislative aides acknowledged the problem and discussed the need for changes in the state budget to address transportation issues. Additionally, the students highlighted the need for expanded mental health, music, and arts programs to State Rep. Willis Blackshear Jr.
