School Bus Service Suspension on St. Croix Continues; Lockhart K-8 in St. Thomas Closed Due to Water Leak

Bus services on St. Croix remain suspended on Friday following a violent assault on a school bus driver last week, as Abramson Enterprises, the contracted bus service provider, continues its strike. The V.I. Department of Education (VIDE) has urged parents and guardians to make alternative transportation arrangements for their children.

The suspension, which started on Thursday, follows the brutal attack on a bus driver by 18-year-old Caleave Mascall Jr. and two minor students from St. Croix Central High School. The Wednesday assault left the bus driver in need of urgent medical attention and led to Abramson Enterprises halting bus services amid safety concerns for their staff.

VIDE has stated that bus services are expected to resume on Monday, October 7, as discussions between the department and Abramson Enterprises continue. In a previous release, the department reiterated the importance of students adhering to the rules while using school transportation. “School bus transportation is a privilege, and it is the expectation of the VIDE that students abide by the rules and exhibit proper behavior when using these services,” said the department.

In light of the suspension, the department has asked parents to ensure that their children have safe and reliable transportation to and from school until services are restored.