A school bus driver is under investigation after allegedly abandoning several students at an incorrect bus stop in Newark’s Robscott Manor neighborhood on Tuesday.
Officials said the incident, which occurred at approximately 4:14 p.m., prompted immediate responses from both the Newark Police Department and New Castle County Police. Newark Charter School staff contacted authorities after receiving reports that students had been left at a bus stop that was not part of their designated route.
When police and school officials arrived at the scene, they found around 10 students, ranging from kindergarten to fifth grade, waiting at the stop. All of the children were in good health, and through coordinated efforts between law enforcement and school staff, the students were safely reunited with their families.
Authorities, assisted by the Delaware State Police, later located the school bus, and no additional students were found on board. The bus driver involved has since been identified and will no longer be employed by the bus company according to police.
First State Update reached out to Newark Charter School after receiving concerns from parents this morning. The parents reported that the bus driver had been behaving erratically and cursing at the children before forcing them off the bus.
Officials responded with a notice that had been sent to the parents. Newark Charter School assured families that all students had made it home safely and that they are fully cooperating with the police investigation. Additionally, the school has arranged for an alternate driver. To further support the children, school staff will accompany students on the bus, and counselors were made available for those needing extra emotional assistance.
Sam Golder, Head of School at Newark Charter, expressed disappointment over the driver’s actions and emphasized that student safety is the school’s top priority. Golder, who also has children of his own, reassured parents that he shared their concerns and was committed to preventing any similar occurrences in the future.