VIDEO FROM RUTHERFORD COUNTY SCHOOLS

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (WGNS) — In a video message to families, Rutherford County Director of Schools Dr. Jimmy Sullivan provided key updates on transportation planning, budget decisions, and bus contract negotiations as the district navigates rising costs and rapid growth.

At the forefront, Dr. Sullivan addressed the district’s recent proposal to implement Parent Transportation Responsibility Zones—areas around schools where parents would be responsible for student transportation rather than using bus services. The school board approved the proposal at its recent meeting as a way to help reduce transportation expenses:

However, after further review, Sullivan announced that the district now plans to recommend tabling the initiative for one school year to allow for more detailed analysis.

“We know that there are some areas where a parent transportation zone will not work,” Sullivan said. “Those are the types of scenarios we are analyzing to report back to the school board before moving forward.”

Sullivan emphasized that student safety remains his top priority and promised to share more information with families soon.

The superintendent also discussed ongoing contract negotiations with bus contractors. Rising costs, continued population growth, the opening of new schools, and three high school additions have added pressure to the district’s transportation system. Some contractors had demanded a 35% pay increase, which Sullivan described as “unprecedented” and potentially harmful to other vital academic programs.

In response, the school board has approved a 17% pay raise, along with an additional 2.5% raise for each of the next three years. The board also approved a $4,000 insurance stipend, bringing the total compensation increase to about 22%.

“We deeply value our bus contractors and the service they provide,” Sullivan said. “As someone who grew up in this community riding the bus, I can personally attest to their importance.”

There had been concern about a possible strike by some bus contractors later this week:

However, Sullivan shared good news, saying an attorney representing one contractor group confirmed they do not plan to strike. While isolated disruptions remain a possibility, the district expects most routes to continue as normal.

Sullivan concluded by thanking the school board, district staff, county officials, and parents for their ongoing collaboration. He expressed optimism for a smooth end to the school year.

“We are committed to finding solutions that balance student success, operational efficiency, and financial responsibility,” he said.

Parents are encouraged to stay alert for updates as the district continues to evaluate options and communicate any changes.