Harford County Bus Driver Fired After 11 Years for Stopping to Rescue Kitten

Cynthia Morgan, a bus driver for Harford County Public Schools in Maryland for 11 years, was removed from her route this week after stopping to let a 10-year-old student rescue an injured kitten on Heaps School Road in Pylesville. The district cited multiple incidents and inappropriate interactions with students in its termination letter. Parents and community members have rallied behind Morgan, arguing the punishment is excessive for an act of kindness on a low-traffic rural road.

What happened on Heaps School Road

On a recent day, Morgan pulled her bus over on Heaps School Road, a rural stretch with little traffic, to allow 10-year-old Alex to pick up an injured kitten. Alex held the cat during the rest of the route to school. After the student got off, Morgan kept the kitten in her lap while finishing her drive. The district transportation office learned of the incident and sent Morgan a disciplinary letter on October 5.

Why the district fired her

Danielle Bedsaul, director of transportation at Harford County Public Schools, cited multiple incidents in her termination letter, including concerns over inappropriate interactions with students. The letter specifically noted that Morgan allowed a student to exit the bus while in motion, violating strict operational protocols. The district did not elaborate on the other incidents or interactions mentioned.

Community pushes back against the firing

Parents say Morgan made a mistake but that firing her after 11 years is disproportionate. Carolyn Kalambihis told CBS News Baltimore the road was rural and low-traffic, and Morgan would not have stopped on a busier street. Taffy Thomas, the student’s mother, told The Baltimore Sun she is 100 percent behind Morgan. Julie Long launched a petition on Change.org to reinstate Morgan, which has gathered over 1,520 signatures. Parents note that Morgan bought school supplies for every child on her bus each year and gave gifts at holidays and birthdays out of her own pocket.

What comes next

Morgan told CBS News Baltimore she is devastated by the decision. The district has not announced whether it will reconsider the firing or if any appeal process exists for drivers. The petition remains active as parents continue to advocate for her reinstatement.

Final Thoughts

Morgan’s 11-year track record of kindness clashes with the district’s strict safety rules. Whether the firing stands depends on whether Harford County Public Schools will review the case or allow an appeal.

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