Bus drivers calling in sick will make IPS students late

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - UPDATE: A spokesperson for Indianapolis Public Schools says the school system is "very pleased with the transportation of students this morning."

There were no reports of any delays or any routes not being picked up Monday morning.  Bus drivers staged a sick out on Friday afternoon to protest unemployment insurance rules.

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Between 12,000 and 13,000 Indianapolis Public School students were up to two hours late getting home Friday.

IPS officials said 80 school bus drivers called in sick. The drivers, technically employed by Durham School Services, demonstrated in an Indianapolis park Friday afternoon.

REACTION | Parents react to bus situation.

Drivers told 24-Hour News 8 there would not be a strike, but that they were frustrated. They have ongoing issues with unemployment payment during school breaks and late paychecks, drivers said.

IPS said the students affected make up about half the students who take the school bus. IPS said parents are welcome to pick up their children, but they aren't required to do so.

John Althardt, IPS spokesman, said the district is extremely disappointed with Durham.

In a statement released Friday afternoon, Durham expressed disappointment in the acts of bus drivers.

"It is unfortunate some bus drivers are not showing up for work and putting their interests ahead of the well-behind of the students," Durham's statement said, in part.

The company blamed the state for employee frustrations related to unemployment.

"Durham has no control over determinations made by the state," the statement said. "We support our employees in obtaining unemployment benefits."

Drivers told 24-Hour News 8 they typically receive unemployment when school isn't in session. But at the beginning of this school year, they said the Department of Workforce Development notified them that drivers needed to pay the money back.

Drivers believe Durham has failed to file proper paper work and they add the company has routinely shortchanged their pay checks.

"They are upset they've lost cars, and their electricity cut off," said Grigittie Yancy bus driver.

Drivers were adamant they would not strike, but they did not say they wouldn't call in sick.

Durham gave no indication if the situation will be resolved by Monday.

ADDITIONAL COVERAGE:

• IPS pleased with bus driver turn out
• IPS : Bus drivers will show Monday
• Students should go to bus stop as usual
• Sickout traced to unemployment rules