New York (WABC)—— New York City Schools Superintendent David Banks said students will start classes next week and will not be threatened by Monday’s school bus strike,
The news on Friday came as a relief to parents of up to 80,000 pupils who could be affected by the strike.
Despite the good news, a strike is still possible late next week, but city officials don’t expect one as negotiations continue between the drivers’ union and the school bus companies.
“If we’re going to have a strike, it’s probably not going to happen for a few weeks,” Banks said after an event in Harlem.
Banks went on to say that ATU 1181, the union representing school bus drivers, is “committed to negotiations and parents should not worry about a strike in the near future, which is a good thing.”
Unions representing waiters and mechanics say they need more money and want new contracts.
The city released a strike contingency plan.
If students are able to take public transportation, they will receive a MetroCard. If that’s not an option, families will be compensated for alternative transportation, or in some cases, the city may offer ride-sharing services.
Some affected families will be eligible for additional services, including:
– Reimbursement for Alternative Transportation – The New York City Department of Energy is establishing a reimbursement system for families who must take taxis, rideshares or private cars because of the strike. The reimbursement rate is 58 cents per mile, with a maximum reimbursement of $200 per day ($100 one way).
– Providing ride-sharing services to affected students and families – Currently, the New York City Department of Energy is planning to provide ride-sharing services to some affected households. Students using the carpool option will be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
In addition, parents or guardians can use the service to travel to work or a destination of choice within the five boroughs and pick up their children from that location in the afternoon to pick up their children from school.
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