Bus Driver Leaves 40 Students at Wrong Stop amid Freezing Temperatures: ‘I Didn’t Know What to Do’

Mar. 15, 2025

A Colorado school bus driver is speaking out after dropping off dozens of children at the wrong spot amid freezing temperatures, leaving parents furious.

The substitute driver has been accused of driving around town without dropping off the students from Clear Sky Elementary School at their proper stops, and eventually forcing the kids off the bus while miles away from their homes and school, according toNBC affiliate KUSAandFOX affiliate KDVR.

The incident began back at school, according to students and parents. Caitlyn Zavadil, a 10-year-old student, told KUSA that the first problem arose when Irving “wouldn’t let us leave the school until we stopped talking,” causing them to leave late.

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After getting on the road, Caitlyn claimed Irving began skipping students’ stops. “We felt like when he was driving and missing our stops, like we were getting kidnapped,” Caitlyn said.

Johnson suggested that was because it was his first time driving the route, and “was dependent upon the tablet to be clear on where I would go.” Driving at dusk, he added, complicated the situation.

“I want to sincerely express my deepest apologies for the unsettling experience your children endured on Monday afternoon,” Cosgrove said. “Through our investigation, we have gained a better understanding of what occurred and feel it is important to share the details we can confirm with you.”

“Regrettably, the driver did not follow protocol when this happened,” Cosgrove said. “The driver should have immediately notified DCSD transportation dispatch.”

source: people.com