An appreciation event arranged in recognition of New York State Senator Bill Weber’s busing achievement for Suffern Central private school students took place at the Klein residence in Suffern on Sunday night, September 8th.
“As one of the first Heimeshe residents in Suffern,” Klein said, “I have closely followed the Suffern Central transportation saga since it became an issue. After Senator Weber succeeded in pulling off what many thought was impossible and helped create a solution to our ongoing busing crisis, I felt the community would want to show their appreciation to the Senator for not giving up, pushing for what was right, and ultimately being successful.”
The new public bidding process came about as a result of Senator Bill Weber’s ongoing efforts in collaboration with the district administration and board, as well as local advocates and stakeholders. It is an important first step in resolving a longtime stalemate between the school district and private schools. Private school students and their families have faced transportation challenges since 2016 when a change in the busing policies had a significant impact on their transportation services. This change allows busing for 462 (or 25%) of the District’s private school students whose schools were successful in the public bidding process, and it comes at no additional cost to the District.
“This week’s event was deeply meaningful,” Senator Weber stated. “It’s a great feeling to meet face-to-face those whom I have been able to help through my office. Being able to make such a significant difference to so many hardworking, tax-paying families in such a meaningful way has always been an important focus of mine and one that I intend to continue pursuing during my next term.”
