Ballard County Schools adjust schedule due to bus driver shortage

BALLARD COUNTY, Ky., (KBSI) — Ballard County Schools will adjust start and end times for the 2025-26 school year due to a critical shortage of bus drivers.

The district has seen its driver workforce dwindle from 12 to eight, forcing drivers to take on double routes in the morning and afternoon, said Transportation Director Leigh Ann Green.

To accommodate the reduced number of buses, Ballard County Middle and Ballard Memorial High school students will start their day 20 minutes earlier, with classes beginning at 7:15 a.m. starting Aug. 7. Ballard County Elementary and Preschool-Head Start students will start 25 minutes later, with classes beginning at 8:25 a.m.

Dismissal times will also be staggered, with middle and high school students dismissing at 2:10 p.m. and elementary students dismissing at 3:20 p.m.

Superintendent Dr. Casey Allen acknowledged the changes will require adjustments from students, families and staff. The district is exploring ways to mitigate the impact, particularly for families with children in different schools.

The shortage of bus drivers is a statewide issue, with neighboring districts also adjusting their schedules. Ballard County Schools is seeking new drivers and substitutes, with training available for interested applicants.