Port Jervis Declares Code Blue Next Week, Buses to Pick Up Walkers

Port Jervis School District announced a Code Blue on Jan. 23 in response to a forecast of frigid temperatures, and will pilot bus pickups for middle and high school students who normally walk to school. The temporary measure runs Monday, January 26 through Friday, January 30 and is intended to reduce student exposure to dangerous cold on the way to classes.

"A Code Blue means our bus drivers will pick up our walker students from MS & HS at designated stops on their way into school," the district message said. The announcement directed families to a FAQ document that lists pickup stops and approximate times for each location. The district also included a contact for transportation questions: Maria Menzynski at mmenzynski@pjschools.org or 845-858-3100 x1881.

Port Jervis is limiting the pilot to secondary students; elementary walkers were not included in the Jan. 23 notice. District officials framed the action as a safety and attendance measure, noting the sharp drop in temperature that prompted the response. "We all want our students in school, and we hope this can help on those really cold and bad weather days. Thanks for your #supPORT," the district message added.

For families, the change will alter morning routines for a defined period. Students who normally walk to Port Jervis Middle School and Port Jervis High School should consult the FAQ to find their assigned stop and arrival window, and plan to be at the designated location when the bus passes. Regular bus riders should expect district communications if routes or loading patterns change while drivers add these stops.

The move carries several policy and operational implications for the district. The pilot tests the district's ability to flex transportation services on short notice, balancing safety and logistics without broadly altering busing policy. Limiting pickups to secondary students narrows the district's exposure to additional route time and staffing needs, but also raises questions about equitable service if younger walkers are left to fend for themselves in extreme cold. Clear public information on stop locations, timing tolerances, and contingency plans for delays will be essential to minimize confusion.

Parents and guardians concerned about eligibility, timing, or special transportation needs should contact Maria Menzynski at the email or phone number provided. The district's FAQ will be the operational guide for the pilot week; officials will need to evaluate ridership, on-time performance, and safety outcomes before considering any extension or expansion.

The pilot will offer a practical test of how Port Jervis handles weather-related student safety without a full-scale policy change. Families should review the stop list and times, plan accordingly for Jan. 26-30, and expect the district to report back on results once the pilot concludes.