Editor’s note: On the first day of the school year Tuesday, Sept. 4, the School District of Rhinelander implemented a new K-12 bussing system in a cost-cutting effort. Several glitches in the system led to dozens of children boarding incorrect busses, being dropped off at wrong locations and enduring bus rides in excess of two hours. Below is School District of Rhinelander Superintendent Roger Erdahl’s letter to district parents regarding the issue.

Parents:

This is Roger Erdahl, Superintendent of Schools, with a message from Bowen’s Bus Service and me.

Last Tuesday we had a number of unfortunate incidents arise with our busing. With the start of every new school year we experience glitches. But Tuesday’s mistakes were unacceptable and undeniable.

We are calling to apologize. On behalf of Bowen’s Bus Service and the School District of Rhinelander, we are sorry for the series of mistakes that caused your children-and you-undue stress and worry.

Wednesday we met. Together we discussed a plan to implement an orderly transportation system and how we will improve our customer service. We are continuing to iron out details, but we made good progress. We have a mutual understanding that the safe and competent transportation of your children is the only priority.

We are deeply concerned over Tuesday’s events, and we continue to investigate the situation. We are working to ensure this does not happen again. Please accept our sincere apologizes for the events of last week, and we will continue to keep you posted as we move forward in the improvements of our busing system.

Thank you. Please feel free to contact me at (715) 365-9700 if you have any questions or concerns.

Roger Erdahl, Superintendent of Schools
School District of Rhinelander