VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — Votran buses will transport students who normally walk to DeLand Middle School to and from the school on Tuesday, Oct. 15 and Wednesday, Oct. 16, the county announced Monday.

Volusia County, Volusia County Schools and the city of DeLand put together the plan to ensure students do not have to be exposed to standing water potentially contaminated with sewage, fertilizers, and other hazardous materials that pose health risks remaining in paths students often utilize, officials said.

DeLand Middle School students who normally walk to school should meet no later than 8:45 a.m. both days at the Sanborn Center, 815 S. Alabama Ave. in DeLand. From the Sanborn Center, Votran buses will transport the students to and from the school.

This shuttle service is being provided as a safe alternative to protect students from potential injuries and health hazards.

A representative from Volusia County Schools will be present on each Votran bus trip to assist with student needs, and officers from the DeLand Police Department will be in the area to help direct traffic.

If floodwaters do not recede sufficiently by Thursday, Oct. 17, the community will be notified about plans to continue the arrangement.

Officials caution that Votran may make multiple rounds, depending on the number of students requiring transportation. Heavy traffic in the area also could result in potential delays of transport, they said.