FITCHBURG — Fitchburg Public Schools officials issued a notice to families warning that a possible strike by First Student bus drivers and monitors could disrupt most student transportation beginning Monday, Dec. 1, 2025.
According to a statement from Superintendent Jonathan Thompson, the union representing First Student drivers and monitors — Teamsters Union Local 170 — may go on strike starting that day. Thompson said the school district is not involved in the negotiations and does not have the ability to influence the process.
“If the strike moves forward as indicated, all yellow bus transportation provided by First Student will be unavailable beginning Monday, December 1,” Thompson said.
The disruption will affect the majority of bus routes across the district.
“We strongly encourage all families whose children rely on yellow bus transportation to begin planning alternative transportation for school starting on Monday, December 1,” Thompson said. Adding, “We recognize that this may present challenges and hardships, and we are committed to communicating updates as soon as they become available.”
Certain forms of transportation will continue to operate, the district said. Van Pool/NRT transportation and Ride Rite services for students who have specialized or van transportation will not be affected, as those providers are not part of Teamsters Local 170.
As part of its response, Fitchburg Public Schools said it will continue to monitor the situation daily while maintaining direct contact with both First Student and the union.
“Each school will communicate updated arrival and dismissal plans to staff and families, outlining any adjustments needed to support students during transportation disruptions,” Thompson said.
District officials are also exploring possible backup transportation options in case the strike proceeds. The superintendent has contacted the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to update them on the strike and request support and guidance related to attendance should the strike occur.
Families will receive any new information through email, phone calls, text messages, social media, and updates on the Fitchburg Public Schools website.
“Our top priority is ensuring students can continue attending school safely and consistently,” Thompson said. “We will notify families immediately if there is any change in the status of the strike or negotiations.”
