Mayor Michelle Wu and Superintendent Skipper will Adopt Recommendations of Independent Investigation into School Transportation Safety

Mayor Michelle Wu and Boston Public Schools Superintendent Mary Skipper announced that they will adopt all recommendations from an independent safety report after the tragic death of kindergartener Lens A. Joseph, struck by a school bus. The report, conducted by Mintz Attorney Natashia Tidwell, was initiated to review safety policies and performance under the contract with Transdev, though it did not investigate the specific incident. Both officials expressed deep condolences and highlighted their commitment to preventing similar tragedies in the future. In response to the report, BPS has implemented immediate changes, including daily safety meetings and enhanced training for bus drivers.

The new vendor contract with Transdev, effective July 1, 2023, incorporates performance incentives and rigorous oversight mechanisms. BPS Transportation's active management has already led to improvements in on-time performance and operations. The system changes aim to provide a safer experience for over 20,000 Boston students who depend on school transportation. The community's safety remains the highest priority for BPS and the city.