In an effort to combat the persistent shortage of bus drivers affecting Hawaii's public schools, Leeward Community College is gearing up to introduce a new Bus Driver Training class set to commence on January 13, 2025. As reported by Spectrum Local News, the upcoming 80-hour program is intended to buttress the workforce with trained commercial drivers, potentially easing the strain on the transportation framework that constrained over 3,700 students statewide this past school year.

Earlier incidents this year had the Department of Education temporarily suspend more than 100 bus routes, stranding nearly 3,000 students who depended on bus transportation. While many of these routes have been reinstated, there was a considerable need for 87 additional drivers. As stated on KHON2, the initiative is also being supported by industry partnerships and features training buses donated by Ground Transport Inc.

Those interested in joining the nascent program are advised to secure their CDL School Bus permit before enrollment. Leeward CC's commercial driver training coordinator, Michael Scully, emphasized the dual benefit of the program, asserting, "By expanding our CDL training programs, we’re not only helping alleviate the immediate bus driver shortage but also supporting Hawai‘i’s broader economic recovery and workforce needs," in a statement obtained by KHON2.

Prospective participants and those curious about the program details can find more information or register by visiting Leeward Community College’s website.