 A bus driver shortage in Bemidji could lead to some major reductions in transportation services. Superintendent of Schools Dr. James Hesse says that the shortage of drivers has been developing over time but has become critical. Hesse says that without additional trained drivers, Bemidji Area Schools may be forced to implement reductions in transportation services that could result in the following. Field trips or activities and athletic trips could be cancelled. Regular routes could be combined making longer rides for students and regular routes could be delayed or cancelled altogether. Hesse says the district has been able to operate regular routes and some activity trips by using office staff, mechanics and supervisors of transportation services as emergency drivers. But even with all of the added personnel, the district remains desperately short of drivers each day. For more information about becoming a bus driver, you can go to the district's website. If you enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland PBS.