A Message from Deborah Low, Superintendent of Ridgefield Public Schools

A message for Ridgefield Public Schools Superintendent Deborah Low: 

I am sorry to report the following incident.

At 7:30 AM this morning (May 28), the School Resource Officer apprehended a First Student bus driver exiting a restroom at SRMS after having left behind an empty 1.8 ounce bottle of alcohol.The School Resource Officer arrested the driver of Bus 25 and transported the driver to the police station. The driver was charged with criminal attempt/risk of injury to a minor. A substitute bus driver took over the remaining morning runs.

As we all recognize, this is a disturbing incident. While we have no indication that students were in danger this morning, any involvement with alcohol by a school bus driver on the job presents serious risks.

Student safety is our most important responsibility. This incident is a breach of trust. The driver has been suspended and will not be returning to Ridgefield. Given the long-term quality and dependability of our bus drivers' service, we believe this is an isolated situation.

We have suggested steps to First Student and the bus drivers to better ensure the safety of our students and to rebuild trust with the community. We are waiting for their response. We are reviewing the terms and conditions of continuing to work with First Student and the drivers.