DAYTON, Ohio – Changes are being implemented by Dayton Public Schools following a violent attack on a district bus driver. Interim Superintendent Dr. David Lawrence announced that the previous protocol of only issuing trespass notices and involving the police for subsequent violations is being revamped. The new approach will involve immediate police involvement and criminal charges for any policy violations. This shift aims to prioritize the safety and security of all Dayton Public Schools employees, with a specific focus on safeguarding bus drivers.
The decision for the change comes after an incident where the mother of a student boarded a bus and attacked the driver. Mar’Tia Franklin, 29, was upset and accused the driver of purposefully leaving her child at the bus stop. Video footage showed Franklin physically assaulting the driver by hitting her and grabbing her hair. Franklin was indicted on one count of felonious assault on Dec. 29.
Examples of violations that will now warrant police involvement include unauthorized boarding of a bus by a member of the public, threatening an employee, and being on District property without permission. This proactive change aims to enhance the overall safety and security of the district’s employees by taking a more assertive approach to handling policy violators.
Lawrence stated that the new approach is part of the district’s commitment to ensuring the well-being of all staff members and is intended to serve as a deterrent to prevent future violent incidents. The safety and security of employees, particularly bus drivers, will be prioritized through this new policy, reflecting the district’s dedication to maintaining a secure working environment.
In the wake of the violent attack, Dayton Public Schools has taken proactive measures to reform the way it handles policy violators, prioritizing the safety and security of all employees, particularly bus drivers. This new approach involves immediate police involvement and criminal charges for any policy violations, with a specific focus on safeguarding the well-being of district employees.