The return of 8th grade students from the annual Salem Middle School trip to Washington D.C. will be delayed today due to two timing changes beyond school control, according to Superintendent Dr. Lynn Reed.
Bright Spark contracted two Queen City Transportation buses from Cincinnati, Ohio for the trip.
According to Reed, Bus 2 experienced a mechanical issue with air conditioning, while Bus 1 was stopped in West Virginia due to driver fatigue and was awaiting a new driver.
“Bus 2 return is expected today in Salem, Indiana between 10:00 and 10:30 PM,” said in a statement released to WSLM. “Bus 1 departure from West Virginia will be at approximately 3:30pm, but the students are safe with chaperones in a hotel awaiting departure.”
Reed said “We expect their arrival to Salem at approximately 9:30 to 10:00pm. Students will contact parents when arrival is approximately one hour out. We deeply apologize for the inconvenience this has created, but SMS is keeping student safety and well-being at the core of all decisions at this time. “
Reed said she appreciated parents understanding of the matter and the school ‘will update when more information is available.”
Students traveling with the D.C. group will be excused from school tomorrow, Monday, April 30.
