Alaska School Bus Strike Enters 5th Week

0:00It's March 27th. Welcome in. This is Anchorage News Today, where local news meets AI. I'm Corey with the story. A school bus worker strike in Alaska's Matsu region is now heading into its fifth week after talks broke down Thursday between the Teensters Union and contractor Durham School Services. The walk-out began March 2nd and disrupts transportation for more than 18,000 students in the Matsunuska, Susitna Burrow, school district. Negotiations wrapped up without a deal, but both sides called the session productive with tentative agreements on most issues. They're said to pick up again April 1st through an online meeting. The strike has hit families hard, especially those with special education students guaranteed bus rides. District officials restarted seven routes this week using temporary drivers from out of state for schools in Houston, Big Lake, and Sue Valley, Jr. Senior High. Parents of those kids can claim mileage reimbursements if they drive instead, and students missing school get extra learning support to catch up. Any cost savings from the

1:04strike could return up to $3.5 million to the district's local funds, with unspent state money save for. Next year's buses. This isn't the first time. Workers last struck over failed contract talks and safety worries after five months of bargaining. Eyes are now on that April 1st meeting to see if a resolution comes soon.