In Edmonds, parents are increasingly alarmed by the school district's decision to cut bus services for students at Martha Lake Elementary due to a budget shortfall of over $10 million. The elimination of bus services for children living within a mile of the school has raised serious safety concerns, particularly from parents like Shannon Bjornson, who fears for her twin sons' safety while walking to school. Many parents, including Shane Hazard, emphasize the dangers posed by speeding vehicles and the lack of adequate pedestrian infrastructure on surrounding streets. As a result of these cuts, families are being forced to explore alternative transportation options, such as enrolling their children in costly before-school programs, which adds financial strain, especially for dual-income households. This controversy reflects the broader challenges educational institutions face in balancing fiscal responsibility with the safety and needs of the community.

Similar transportation challenges are being faced by other schools, such as Cedar Valley Community School, making this issue resonate deeply within the Edmonds community. Parents are urging the school district to reconsider these decisions to ensure the safety and well-being of their children.