The ongoing contract negotiations between Zum bus drivers, represented by Teamsters Local Union #570, and their employer remain at a standstill, with both sides not yet reaching an agreement on critical terms such as wages and benefits. This dispute has led the union to take more active steps, including circulating flyers among the Howard County Public School System (HCPSS) community to engender support for their cause. However, this tactic has drawn the ire of school system leaders.
School authorities have expressed their discontent with the union's approach, particularly their method of involving students and families. In a statement detailed by Baltimore Fishbowl, HCPSS Superintendent Bill Barnes and school board chair Jolene Mosley called the distribution of flyers to students "inappropriate" and a violation of HCPSS policy. They underscored their support for bus drivers but stood firm on the perspective that students should not serve as "messengers for influence" in contractual proceedings.
The union, meanwhile, has argued that their push for better compensation is more than just a labor dispute; it's a matter of ensuring fairness and safety for those who take care of the county's children. According to a report by CBS News Baltimore, Sean Cedenio, Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 570, expressed desires for the county and school board to intervene, believing they "hold the key" to a satisfactory resolution.
The school district leadership has responded by stating that fiscal responsibilities limit their involvement in the matter. Barnes and Mosley said in a joint statement obtained by CBS News Baltimore that "Any increase provided to Zum Services would require the reallocation of funding away from student instruction and schools". It was also mentioned that rate adjustments with Zum can only be considered during the contract renewal period, which is slated for the winter and spring for the upcoming 2026-2027 school year.
