Xenia bus drivers, First Student deadlocked in contract negotiations

Negotiations have stalled on a new contract between Xenia school bus drivers and First Student, the private company that contracts with the district to provide transportation services.

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The drivers and other employees represented by Teamsters Local 957 rejected the last offer from the company and issued a 21-day "cooling off" notice in September, according to First Student Spokeswoman Jen Biddinger.

"We're hopeful that we're going to work this out," Biddinger said. "We're focused on reaching an agreement that is mutually beneficial and continue to provide service to the district."

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Biddinger said the company is not prepared to discuss specifics of what has stalled the negotiations, nor will First Student comment at this time on any contingency plans if an agreement is not reached.

The contract talks involve labor relations for about 50 "drivers and monitors," Biddinger said.

Messages left seeking comment from Teamsters Local 957 have not been returned.

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Requests are in for comment from an official with Xenia Community Schools.

Negotiations are set to resume on Tuesday.

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