Durham School Services has launched a new service providing transportation to students attending magnet schools, and the contractor began operating such routes in Duval County, Fla., this week.

This summer, as a result of budget shortfalls, Duval County Public Schools cut all bus service to and from magnet schools, leaving parents and students to find alternative means of transportation.

Durham employees worked to answer parent inquires, attend informational meetings and set up magnet routes based on registered riders. The company is currently operating eight magnet school routes and is continuing to work with parents to find the best way to get their children to school, officials said.

“Our team has worked diligently over the summer to work out transportation solutions for many Duval County families. We are proud to be a member of this community and look forward to continuing to provide the safe and reliable service that we are known for in the Duval area,” said John Ziegler, region manager for Durham School Services.