Student Transportation of Eastern Ontario (STEO) is advising trustees with the Upper Canada District School Board to prepare for significant changes to student transportation service due to a projected $11-million funding shortfall in the 2027–28 school year.
The board previously projected an $8 million shortfall.
During the Feb. 11 Board of Trustees meeting, STEO General Manager Janet Murray said current service levels exceed provincial standards used in the new funding model.
Aligning with those standards could mean more students walking to school, longer distances to bus stops, and extended ride times.
Provincial guidelines allow up to 75 minutes for elementary students and 90 minutes for secondary students, compared to STEO’s current target of 60 minutes for most riders.
Murray also outlined cost-saving measures including competitive bidding for bus contracts, partnerships with public transit, and alternative transportation options. Despite these efforts, an $8-million gap would remain, requiring funding from UCDSB and the Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario.
Final decisions are expected in fall 2026.
(By: Tim Baltz)
