MURFREESBORO, TN — Rutherford County Schools will remain out of the bus-owning business, opting instead to continue leasing transportation services for students in the upcoming school year.

Concerns over a potential strike among contracted drivers had prompted county officials to consider purchasing buses, but a resolution was reached before Thursday’s Budget & Investment Committee meeting. Bus owner groups convened, and an overwhelming majority—nearly 90%—approved the district’s latest offer, easing tensions.

County Schools Director Dr. Jimmy Sullivan updated the committee on the latest developments, confirming that 317 of the 333 new bus contracts for the 2025-26 school year had been finalized. The district had previously set a threshold of 35 unfilled bus routes—any number exceeding that would have triggered a move toward purchasing buses. With contracts secured well below that threshold, Sullivan assured officials, “We will not be going into the bus business.”

The decision provides stability for students and families who rely on bus transportation, ensuring continuity in service while avoiding a major operational shift for the district.

The Rutherford County Budget & Investment Committee will meet again Thursday, June 5, 2025.