By Eric Stock

NORMAL – Unit 5 superintendent Mark Daniel said buses have been more timely in recent weeks as First Student has built a reserve pool of drivers.

Daniel told WJBC’s Scott Laughlin, the bus company plans to make more staffing adjustments on Dec. 1.

“At that time, with the number of drivers we have, we should be running on time except for bus failures or those situations that are unpredictable,” Daniel said.

Daniel added the busing situation is “much better, but still not where we want it.”

First Student has met its obligation of adding a 20-percent cushion in drivers, which the district demanded as a condition in getting its contract extended.

First Student officials said a new contract, including better pay for drivers, has helped the company hire and keep more drivers.

Computer science

Unit 5 has a new agreement with Heartland Community College that enables students to get an associate’s degree in computer science while still in high school.

Daniel said the dual-credit program helps put students on the fast track to getting a college degree.

“There aren’t too many places where you can get a high school diploma and associates degree as you graduate from high school,” Daniel said. “We are really pleased about that.”

The program is only available to students at Normal West who plan to begin high school next year. They have until Dec. 20 to apply.

Eric Stock can be reached at [email protected].