NILES — Local bus drivers concerned about their jobs and the safety of the children they take to school protested in Niles Sunday.

Protesters lined the streets at four different locations. The district's 28 bus drivers helped organize the event.

Margo Rivera has been driving for seven years and says losing her job isn't her only concern.

"The safety of the children is most important though,” said bus driver Margo Rivera. “With privatization you hear a lot of horror stories about the things that go on with the private companies busing your children. And I have children in the district and it really scares me."

Niles Superintendent Doug Law earlier told WSBT News "the district is looking at bids for privatizing." He says it's also in very intense negotiations with the current union.

The question of whether or not to privatize bus transportation next school year will likely be decided by Niles Community Schools officials at the school board meeting Monday.