SIDNEY - Sidney Public Transportation is playing a growing role in helping local students get to and from school, stepping in to fill transportation gaps as demand has increased in recent years.

Director Kasey Kantor and coordinator Christine Radtke oversee the city’s program, which now includes a partnership with Sidney Public Schools. The two are the department’s only full-time employees, supported by eight part-time drivers who handle daily routes. Kantor said the partnership began after conversations with Superintendent Andrew Farber.

“We saw a need within the community and wanted to help fill it,” Kantor said.

The city began transporting students during the COVID-19 pandemic, when just three students needed rides home. The service has since expanded. About 100 students used the program in 2024, and roughly 90 are riding this year. During school hours, the department’s vehicles are dedicated exclusively to student transportation.

Kantor and Radtke, both graduates of Sidney High School, say the work is personal.

“We want to help in our community and be that missing link for families,” Kantor said.

The department operates eight vehicles and averages between 67 and 220 rides per day. Kantor handles more than 120 pages of monthly reporting for the Federal Transportation Agency but still drives when he can.

Community support has helped sustain the service. ALLO has donated funds for student bus passes the past two years, and individuals are able to contribute as well.

Drivers say the daily interactions make the job meaningful. “I feel like we’re making a difference,” driver Les Glanz said. “The kids appreciate the ride.”

 

Information for this story provided by Donna Wiedeburg / Sidney Public Schools