I strongly agree about the Laidlaw buses! Not only is that company's saftey record among the worst in the industry, their buses are among the most poorly maintained. Having observed them many times doing the things that the Merrillville drivers are not allowed to do, I feel that our kids are being put in harms way ! We must ask, WHY ?? Why NOW ? Merrillville's buses have been taking our kids on field trips for all these years. Is it easier for schools....NO ! Is it to save money? NO, in fact, it cost MORE ! Plus the Merrillville drivers already know all the trip routes,the best parking for buses, and all the other little things that make the trip more safe for our kids. It's time to demand answers from our school board and the director of transportion ( 650-5311). Our childrens saftey is at stake. Please act NOW !!