October 7, 2025

Mentor Public Schools Cancel Classes Due to Bus Driver Shortage

News Summary

Mentor Public Schools announced the cancellation of classes due to a severe bus driver shortage impacting transportation services. With many drivers absent, school officials prioritized student safety, leading to the unprecedented closure. In response, the district is introducing new transportation routes and actively recruiting drivers, including a hands-on event to attract potential candidates. Superintendent Craig Heath expressed regret over the decision but emphasized the district’s commitment to resolving staffing issues and ensuring reliable transportation for students.

Mentor, Ohio – Mentor Public Schools canceled classes on September 30 due to a significant transportation staffing shortage, resulting from a large number of bus driver absences. The decision affected all students and staff within the district, prompting school officials to seek immediate solutions to address the issue.

The district reported that the transportation department was unable to cover the required bus routes, leading to the unprecedented school closure. Superintendent Craig Heath expressed regret for the disruption caused to families in a public communication, stating that the decision was not made lightly but was essential to ensure student safety.

On the morning of the closure, Mentor Schools faced a critical situation with 48 bus routes needing coverage for different educational levels, including special needs transportation. With two full-time driver positions already vacant, four drivers were on extended leave, and an additional five drivers were absent that day. This resulted in nine drivers needing coverage for a total of 29 routes, with predictions indicating the need for coverage of 41 routes in the afternoon.

In response to these challenges, the district announced strategic steps to mitigate future transportation issues. Starting Monday, Laketran will operate two bus routes for Mentor Schools, with district bus aides accompanying these routes to assist students. Families affected by this change have already received phone calls and follow-up emails providing further details about the new transportation arrangements.

Following the temporary closure, the district has seen numerous applications for bus driver positions, which are now under review. Ongoing recruitment efforts for new drivers will continue, with application details available on the district’s official website to attract more candidates to fill the existing vacancies.

To further bolster staffing in the transportation department, Mentor Schools will host a “Drive the Bus” event on November 1 from 10 a.m. to noon at Mentor High School. This event aims to provide potential drivers with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience behind the wheel of a school bus, as well as learn more about the employment opportunities available within the district.

Superintendent Heath reiterated the district’s commitment to building a more reliable transportation system and achieving full staffing within the transportation department. The overarching goal is to enhance service for students who rely on school transportation, ensuring they can travel to and from school safely and efficiently.

While the decision to close schools was made with serious consideration of the disruptive impact on families, Mentor Public Schools appreciates the patience and understanding of parents and guardians during this challenging time. The district continues to focus on resolving its staffing challenges and is eager to reinstate normal operations as soon as possible.

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