A school bus driver shortage has been plaguing the entire U.S. since the Covid-19 pandemic began, but it has showed up in a big way for Wayland this week.

There have been reports the Wayland boys’ freshman, varsity and junior varsity basketball teams Friday were forced to find their own means of transportation to and from at scheduled game at Hopkins. It was the result of the bus trip being canceled because of the driver shortage.

Wayland Union Schools Superintendent Dr. Christina Friday morning said, “I hadn’t heard about the boys’ basketball team needing to arrange their own transportation; however, this does occur due to the driver shortage. Our first priority is to ensure we are able to get students safely to school and back home. We then work to fulfill the athletic and extracurricular transportation requests.

“If the timing overlaps and we do not have additional drivers, we have to share the transportation responsibility with parents. We need substitute bus drivers (those who do not want a full route, but willing to work occasionally or for special events) badly… if you know anyone interested, please send them our way!”

Wayland boys’ varsity bowling team coach Sherry Miklusicak posted on Facebook, “We have a serious shortage in bus drivers and it is challenging our athletic program. If you know of anyone who needs a job, even if just afternoons it would help us out greatly. I do drive the school van when necessary, but it only holds nine bowlers and we take 28. Other sports are hurting for drivers as well.

“Parents who have open schedules, we may need you…”