School scheduled in the Pine Bush School District, jarred by a disruption in the bus schedule, are slowly moving back to normal.

“We’re not back to the regular schedule yet,” says Superintendent Tim Mains, “although we are making progress to the problem.”

The problem was caused by a shortage of bus drivers at the start of the school year. It led to cancellation of school, a redrawing of bus routes and a change in schedule to accommodate the shortage. It eventually led the district to seek outside help.

“Routes have been sustained for a number of days at the elementary school,” said Mains, adding that the district is “within days” of returning elementary school to the regular schedule.

Michael Pacella, Assistant Superintendent for Business, said the school district has executed 10 emergency contracts with Orange County Transit to supplement the service provided by Birnie Bus Company, with five more coming to help transport athletic teams.

Pacella said Birnie has “40-50 possible candidates” to fill its vacancies.

One of the hurdles in finding candidates, he suggested, was the legalization of marijuana, which has caused many candidates to fail drug tests.

“Marijuana stays in the system for 30 days,” Pacella said.