Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker has activated the state's National Guard to help get students to school in the midst of a bus driver shortage.
USA Today reports 250 guard personnel will be available to serve as drivers of school transport vans.
The National Guard will undergo training before being deployed in Chelsea, Lawrence, Lowell, and Lynn.
The guard troops will complete vehicle training and operate transport vans known as “7D vehicles."
It’s not clear how long the guard will be deployed or if other districts will receive assistance.
Baker says the transportation duties won’t interfere with the guard’s ability to respond to other major state emergencies.
“The guard has a proven track record of success supporting civilian authorities,” Baker said. “Their frequent side-by-side training with state and local first responders makes them well-suited for a variety of missions.”
