HUNTINGTON — Gateway Superintendent Melissa Matarazzo said on Thursday morning that she was still investigating the driver issue and Gateway’s communication protocol in regards to a school bus from Lecrenski Bros. that had been delayed in dropping off students in Chester on Tuesday, apparently due to a medical issue that the driver experienced. Unreliable cell service was also a factor in the delay, according to the superintendent.
“At the moment, I can only share what I sent to our community late Tuesday. I anticipate having more to say by Monday to address concerns from our parents and families,” Matarazzo said.
The letter, sent at approximately 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 20, went to all Gateway families and staff.
“Earlier today, we managed a significant bus concern impacting a small number of students and families at Chester Elementary School. To ensure that our whole community has accurate information about what occurred, how we responded, and how we will address the situation moving forward, I wanted to send this message to all of you this evening,” Matarazzo wrote.
“After elementary school dismissal today, we began to receive calls that a bus from Chester Elementary was not dropping off students at its expected times. Lecrenskis was made aware of this and attempted to contact the driver, but could not reach her. As you know, cell service in some of our geographic areas is not reliable.
“As soon as we were notified of the issue, we used 911 to communicate with local law enforcement to assist us to find the bus’s location and ensure students were safe. The Russell State Police barracks were incredibly helpful, as was Chief [Jennifer] Dubiel from Chester and the Russell police, who coordinated with Lecrenskis. The police were able to locate the bus, ascertain that the driver had experienced a medical situation, and ensure that all students were safe and accounted for.”
The letter continued, “Once the bus was located, a second bus made its way to pick up and drop off the remaining students. Some students were picked up by their families at the bus’s location, while others were taken home by the second bus. Chief Dubiel followed the bus to ensure all students were safely delivered home. All students returned safely home, many much later than expected.
“In response to this situation, we will take a number of next steps. Dr Gazda and the school counselor at Chester will be prepared to welcome students back in the morning, and check in with those on the bus to ensure that they aren’t negatively impacted by the experience.”
Matarazzo added that the department will send additional counseling support if that is needed and will collaborate with Lecrenskis to ensure that drivers are reliably and safely assigned to buses.
“If you have heard or know of additional information or rumors about this situation, please be in touch with me directly,” Matarazzo’s letter said. “It will assist us to understand fully what occurred and address any concerns you may have as a result of this situation. Our students’ safety is always our primary concern.”
