Comal school district’s transportation struggles reached a new level as superintendent Andrew Kim announced Monday the need to cancel some routes on a day-to-day basis because of COVID-19 and a shortage of drivers.

The district expects this will continue for the next several weeks, Kim wrote in an email to parents.

“I know these last-minute cancelations are an inconvenience and create an unnecessary burden for you and your family,” Kim wrote. “For that I am sorry.”

A parent or guardian might receive notification from the district a student needs a ride to or from school when a bus driver cannot be found to drive the route. COVID-19 tests and other illnesses are leading more drivers to call in sick.

The district’s administrative team and transportation department plan to address unexpected driver shortages and route cancellations.

“We will continue to work on those details this week,” he wrote, “and will share with you those plans this Thursday.

“In the meantime, I ask for your patience and understanding, particularly with our drivers and Transportation Department staff, as they continue to work diligently to safely get your child to and from school. And if you know of anyone who would be interested and willing to be a bus driver for us, please have them fill out an application.”