The Real News Louisiana

Natchitoches, LA – February 23, 2026 – Following the Natchitoches Parish School Board’s February 10 decision to renew its student transportation contract with Ecco Ride for the 2026–2027 school year, the company’s bus drivers are expressing growing discontent and discussing the possibility of a strike. The board selected Ecco Ride after a lengthy and emotional debate, primarily because it submitted the lowest monetary bid and the highest-scoring proposal under the district’s RFP evaluation criteria. The choice came amid a projected $1.7 million budget shortfall, with administrators warning that choosing a higher-cost vendor could force cuts to essential academic programs. Despite the financial pressures, the decision was not unanimous in spirit. Several board members voiced significant reservations about Ecco Ride’s past performance and called for stronger oversight moving forward. Tensions among drivers have escalated since the renewal, with reports of some receiving intimidating phone calls from Ecco Ride leadership. These developments have heightened concerns over working conditions and employee relations. While the company has faced occasional complaints about its operations in the area in the past, no widespread labor action has been confirmed yet. Stakeholders are closely monitoring the situation, as unresolved issues could affect the reliability of school transportation in the district. During the lengthy debate, concerns poured in about frequent complaints regarding late buses, excessively early pickups, and inadequate staffing. Board members highlighted that transportation issues have been the primary source of constituent grievances, with drivers reportedly experiencing low morale and hesitation to file formal complaints due to fears of retaliation or job loss. “We’re hearing from employees who are afraid to put things in writing,” one board member noted during the meeting, underscoring the precarious position of the workforce. Ultimately, the board approved the contract via roll-call vote, prioritizing fiscal responsibility while pledging enhanced oversight, including formal complaint tracking and quarterly meetings with the vendor. Drama intensified just one day after the approval.
This eruption comes against a backdrop of historical friction: In 2019, Ecco Ride faced a threatened strike when drivers refused routes amid an unspecified dispute, leading to potential shortages and delays.
Superintendent Dale Skinner intervened at the time, ensuring students were transported safely, but the incident highlighted ongoing labor strains.
More recently, in January 2025, concerns surfaced about a specific bus driver’s alleged dangerous behavior, prompting a response from Ecco Ride CFO Glen Krueger.
Krueger outlined the company’s investigation process, which includes camera reviews and progressive discipline, and noted compliance with state and federal regulations.
The driver in question was reportedly reassigned, but the episode fueled broader questions about oversight and driver satisfaction under the company’s contract with the school board.
Sources close to the drivers, speaking on condition of anonymity, have indicated that the contract renewal has reignited frustrations over pay, working conditions, and job security. “The board chose the cheapest option, but at what cost to us?” one driver shared, echoing sentiments that could lead to organized action. While no official strike has been announced, talks amongst drivers suggest a growing willingness to walk out if demands for better compensation and support aren’t met.
For now, parents and students in Natchitoches Parish remain in limbo, hoping that dialogue prevails over disruption. As one board member put it, the renewal was a “necessary evil,” but without addressing the human element behind the wheel, the road ahead could be bumpy indeed.