METHUEN, Mass. – Lawrence Public Schools, NRT Bus Inc., Zenobē, and partners today hosted a ribbon cutting to celebrate the deployment of 35 new electric school buses. Thanks to successful public and private partnerships, Lawrence Public Schools has deployed 25 new electric school buses, supported by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and 10 minibuses, supported by an initiative led by the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) and funded by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP), as part of their regular home-to-school operations. The buses are based in Methuen and support clean transportation for Lawrence Public Schools.

“To give students a comfortable, quieter daily bus ride while benefiting public health, the environment and Lawrence taxpayers is a big win for our entire community,” said Lawrence Public Schools Superintendent Ralph Carrero. “This initiative is the power of public-private partnership at its best.”

“As part of our ongoing commitment to reduce emissions and promote cleaner air for our students and schools, we are thrilled to announce the launch of this charging site to support our new electric fleet for Lawrence Public Schools,” said Scott Sheridan, Senior Vice President of NRT Bus. “We are grateful for the hard work and dedication of all our partners from the public and private sector who made this project possible and are helping us power this new fleet for the 2025 school year.”

“We’re drawing on our global fleet electrification experience to bring clean transportation and its many health and climate benefits to NRT Bus, Beacon Mobility and Lawrence Public Schools. This is an excellent example of public-private partnership in action, and we believe projects like this can be as financially sustainable as they are environmentally sustainable and beneficial,” commented Zenobē Executive Vice President of U.S. EV Sales and Marketing Maggie Clancy.

Undertaken as a partnership between the EPA, MassCEC, Beacon Mobility, Zenobē, Sargent & Lundy, National Grid, Liberty Utilities, and the school district, the charging site was completed last summer and is being used to charge and store the 35 new electric buses.

“This investment means healthier air for students, quieter neighborhoods, and cost savings for school districts over the long term,” said Rachel Ackerman, Senior Program Director for Clean Transportation at MassCEC. “Projects like this show how innovative partnerships can deliver immediate community benefits while accelerating the state’s transition to clean transportation. MassCEC is proud to support Lawrence Public Schools in putting these new electric minibuses on the road.”

Electrified by National Grid and Liberty Utilities, the charging station site provides a sustainable hub for recharging the electric batteries that power the new fleet to shuttle Merrimack Valley students and community members to and from school and other local activities.

“At National Grid, we believe fleet electrification is a key component of building a sustainable and diversified energy future,” said Jake Navarro, Director of Clean Transportation, National Grid. “We’re proud to collaborate with a range of stakeholders to invest in and modernize our energy infrastructure to support the customers and communities we serve.”

Lawrence Public Schools deployed the 25 new electric buses as part of the EPA’s Clean School Bus Program in 2022. The school district serves 13,000 K-12 students. The 25 electric school buses alone are projected to reduce carbon emissions by an estimated 1.35 million pounds per year, equivalent to removing 136 gas-powered passenger cars off the road for one year. In addition, the district was awarded $1,670,000 under MassCEC’s ACT School Bus Deployment Program in 2023 which was used to fund the 10 minibuses.

All vehicles were placed in service for the current 2025 school year.

About Zenobē Energy Ltd. (Zenobē):
Zenobē is an EV fleet and grid-scale battery storage specialist, headquartered in the U.K. The company began operations in 2017 and now employs >380 FTEs with a wide range of leading skills including electrical engineering, software development, computer sciences and financing. Zenobē has around a 25% market share of the U.K. EV bus sector and supports over 3,400 electric vehicles across 120 depots globally. The company is the largest owner and operator of EV buses in the U.K., Australia and New Zealand. Zenobē is also the leading owner and operator of grid-scale batteries on the Great Britain transmission network with >1GW of battery storage assets in operation or under construction. Zenobē’s North American headquarters are in Chicago with a subsidiary office in New York and it is actively hiring in Canada and the U.S. For more information visit zenobe.com or LinkedIn.

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RICHMOND, Va.– As concern for energy reliability surges nationwide, the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) is marking National Propane Day by encouraging school transportation directors to explore propane autogas as a reliable, on-site energy solution that can support greater peace of mind during power outages or severe weather.

October 7 marks the fourth annual National Propane Day, and this year’s theme, “Prepare with Propane,” is a reminder of propane autogas’s reliability. A recent report from the U.S. Department of Energy warns that blackouts in the United States could increase 100-fold by 2030 as the electric grid struggles to meet growing demand. For school transportation directors that rely on a rigid energy source, that could mean the difference in keeping school buses running or grounding the fleet. Because propane autogas is stored on site, never degrades, and isn’t reliant on the power grid for distribution, it remains ready even during widespread power disruptions.

“As someone who spent years managing school transportation, I understand firsthand how critical it is to keep vehicles moving,” said Joel Stutheit, senior manager of autogas business development at PERC. “When a fleet goes down, everything stops. Propane autogas gives transportation directors a level of control that other energy sources can’t. It’s dependable, affordable, and always ready no matter what’s happening with the grid.”

Today, more than 22,000 propane autogas school buses are in operation across the United States at more than 1,100 school districts. The energy source is not only resilient but also clean, producing up to 96 percent fewer nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions than diesel. It offers lower fuel and maintenance costs, supports better air quality, and contributes to more consistent uptime.

In addition to propane autogas vehicles, the energy source is also helping electric school bus fleets become more resilient with propane-powered EV charging systems. Powered by a propane generator, and in some cases wind and solar, these off-grid charging solutions can be installed in remote locations, disaster zones, or depots without permanent infrastructure ensuring school buses stay charged even when the grid is down.

Now in its fourth year, National Propane Day is not only a celebration of propane’s energy benefits, but also a moment to recognize the propane professionals who make clean transportation possible.

“From bobtail delivery drivers who make sure customers have energy when they need it to propane autogas service technicians that keep school buses operating safely on the road, National Propane Day is also a celebration of them,” said Joel Stutheit. “We depend on these professionals to keep clean, reliable transportation running every day. And their dedication is what helps fleets stay prepared, no matter what challenges come their way.”

To learn more about propane’s role in providing reliable energy solutions for school transportation, visit propane.com/buses.

About PERC: The Propane Education & Research Council is a nonprofit that provides leading propane safety and training programs and invests in research and development of new propane-powered technologies. PERC is operated and funded by the propane industry. For more information, visit Propane.com.

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SAN DIEGO, Calif. -Netradyne, a global leader in AI-powered fleet safety and performance solutions, today announced the launch of the Driver•i D-810. Built to deliver peak safety and efficiency in fleet operations, the D-810 is the first platform to combine 360 AI capabilities with edge intelligence across up to eight cameras. Extending Netradyne’s leadership in fleet safety and performance, the D-810 gives fleets greater visibility into driver behavior and vehicle activity, enabling smarter decision-making and proactive risk management.

With 360° video visibility and collision management, the D-810 strengthens Netradyne’s approach to overcoming the challenges of modern fleet operations—with an integrated platform for fleet operations that enables safety, fuel efficiency, compliance, and vehicle health management.

“At Netradyne, our mission has always been to push the boundaries of what’s possible in fleet safety and performance,” said Avneesh Agrawal, CEO and co-founder of Netradyne. “With the launch of the Driver•i D-810 product, we’re not only advancing innovation through edge intelligence technologies and 360 AI solutions, but we’re also setting a new standard for how fleets can operate safer, smarter, and more efficiently. This launch reflects our commitment to giving drivers the confidence they need, managers the visibility they demand, and the industry a future built on intelligent, comprehensive fleet solutions.”

Next generation of visibility and confidence on the road.

The Driver•i D-810 introduces a new generation of design and driver support. Dual- and quad-lens windshield cameras are over 80% smaller than previous models, reducing obstruction while preserving AI accuracy. A powerful processing hub supports multiple configurations, giving fleets the scalability they need. For drivers, an optional in-cab monitor streams blind spot views during turns, lane changes, and reversing. Paired with automated AI audio alerts, the system functions as a real-time co-pilot—building safer habits and greater confidence behind the wheel.

From real-time alerts to data protection, edge intelligence delivers.

Advanced edge processing delivers instant AI analysis without relying on cloud connectivity, ensuring critical safety alerts are continuously operational, while reducing bandwidth costs and protecting sensitive fleet data with on-device intelligence. This powerful on-device processing means fleets can maintain peak safety performance even in areas with poor connectivity, while sensitive video data remains secure within the vehicle. The result is faster response times, lower operational costs, and enhanced data privacy—giving fleet managers the confidence that their safety systems work reliably anywhere their drivers travel.

Minimum blind spots, maximum safety.

Powered by the D-810, Driver•i 360 AI delivers real-time, edge-based intelligence across up to eight cameras, eliminating blind spots around the cab, sides, rear, and trailer without relying on the cloud. This complete visibility gives drivers confidence through blind spot alerts, real-time recognition, and in-cab coaching. Managers gain instant, searchable video evidence to simplify reviews and investigations, while also benefiting from stronger safety culture, reduced litigation risk, and measurable operational savings.

“The Driver•i D-810 brings together years of AI advancement into a single, fleet-ready platform that delivers real-time intelligence at the edge,” said David Julian, CTO and co-founder of Netradyne. “At the same time, it’s designed to protect our customers’ existing Driver•i investments, following Netradyne’s roadmap that enables current devices to adopt new capabilities and benefit from ongoing innovation without replacement. This approach balances continuous innovation with long-term value for every fleet Netradyne serves.”

About Netradyne
Netradyne provides AI-powered technologies for fleet management and safer roads. An award-winning industry leader in fleet safety and video telematics solutions, Netradyne empowers thousands of commercial fleet customers across North America, Europe, and Asia to enhance their driver performance, reduce risk, and optimize operations. Netradyne sets the standard among transportation technology companies for enhancing and sustaining road safety, with an industry-leading 25+ billion miles vision-analyzed for risk and an industry-first driver scoring system that recognizes, reinforces, and rewards safe behaviors. Founded in 2015, Netradyne is headquartered in San Diego with offices in San Francisco, Nashville, and Bangalore.

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Transporting students with special needs is one of the most complex and critical responsibilities school districts face. Beyond the obvious challenge of getting students safely from home to school and back again, transportation directors must also consider medical requirements, mobility equipment, individualized education plans (IEPs), specialized training for drivers and aides, and the need for clear communication with families. For decades, these demands have placed enormous pressure on transportation departments, often with limited resources.

This is where Transfinder steps in, offering solutions that give districts the tools they need to ensure every student—especially those with special needs—receives safe, reliable, and personalized transportation.

Precision in Routing and Scheduling

For students with special needs, transportation is not one-size-fits-all. Some students may require a shorter ride to minimize stress, while others may need vehicles equipped with wheelchair lifts or space for medical devices. Traditional routing methods often struggle to accommodate these individualized requirements.

Transfinder’s Routefinder PLUS software transforms how districts plan and adjust routes. Transportation staff can enter detailed information about each student’s unique needs—whether that involves proximity to a school entrance, a preference for curb-to-curb pickup, or specific vehicle accommodations. Knowing a student’s unique needs and balancing social considerations for that child is important. The system then builds routes that respect these requirements, balancing efficiency with personalization.

For example, if a child has a sensory sensitivity and cannot be on the bus for more than 20 minutes, Routefinder PLUS allows planners to create a route that honors that limitation. If another student requires a bus with air-conditioning due to a medical condition, the system ensures the student is assigned to the appropriate vehicle. These details, once managed manually and prone to error, are now built into the daily operation.

Flexibility When Needs Change

Students’ needs often evolve throughout the school year. A new medical diagnosis, a change in therapy schedules, or even a family move can dramatically impact transportation. Traditionally, making these changes meant long hours of reworking routes and notifying families.

With Transfinder, those adjustments happen quickly and accurately. Transportation staff can easily reassign a student to a different route or vehicle, while the system automatically recalculates times, distances, and driver assignments. Parents are informed immediately through Stopfinder, Transfinder’s parent communication app, which provides real-time updates about their child’s transportation.

For families of students with special needs, this peace of mind is invaluable. Parents know their child’s safety and comfort are always at the center of planning, and they can track buses on a map or receive notifications if a vehicle is delayed.

Supporting Drivers and Aides

Transporting students with special needs requires more than just the right route—it requires well-informed drivers and aides. They must know which students may require extra assistance boarding, which may need a calm and quiet environment, and which have medical considerations.

Transfinder equips staff with the information they need. Through mobile solutions like Wayfinder, drivers can receive turn-by-turn directions as well as notes about student needs. This reduces stress for substitute drivers, who may not be familiar with a particular route or group of students. Instead of relying on memory or binders of paper notes, all critical details are available at their fingertips.

This not only improves safety but also ensures continuity of care. If a student typically rides with a familiar driver but that driver is unavailable, substitutes can step in with the same level of preparedness and confidence.

Reducing Ride Times, Increasing Comfort

One of the biggest concerns parents express about special needs transportation is long ride times. Spending excessive time on a bus can be overwhelming or even harmful for certain students.

Transfinder’s optimization tools help districts reduce unnecessary mileage and minimize student ride times. By analyzing traffic patterns, student locations, and school start times, the software creates routes that are efficient without compromising individual needs. The result is students arriving at school calmer, less fatigued, and more ready to learn.

Compliance and Accountability

Federal laws like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) place specific obligations on districts regarding special education services, including transportation. Failure to meet these obligations can result in complaints or even legal challenges.

Transfinder helps districts stay compliant by maintaining detailed records of routes, assignments, and accommodations. If questions arise about whether a student’s transportation needs are being met, transportation directors have the data to demonstrate compliance. This transparency not only protects districts but also reassures families that their children’s needs are being taken seriously.

A Human Difference Through Technology

At its core, Transfinder’s mission is not just about buses and routes—it’s about students. For districts serving special needs populations, that mission carries extra weight. The technology provides tools, but the ultimate result is human: a student who arrives safely at school, a parent who feels confident in their district, and a driver who is empowered to provide excellent care.

Districts that partner with Transfinder often report reduced stress for staff, improved relationships with families, and better outcomes for students. One transportation director put it simply: “With Transfinder, we can focus less on the logistics and more on the children.”

Conclusion

Transporting students with special needs is one of the most demanding and important services a district provides. By combining precise routing, real-time flexibility, parent communication, and staff support, Transfinder ensures that every child’s journey to and from school is safe, dignified, and tailored to their individual needs.

With Transfinder, districts don’t just move students from point A to point B—they deliver peace of mind, equity, and opportunity.

To learn more about Transfinder technology and support, visit Transfinder.com, email solutions@transfinder.com or call 800-373-3609.

The views expressed are those of the content sponsor and do not reflect those of School Transportation News.

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Safety has always been the top priority in student transportation, but for special education, it carries added weight. These buses serve students who require closer supervision and stronger family communication, making safety more important. Radios and reports still help, but new technologies are giving transportation leaders the ability to act in real time.

At Royse City ISD (RCISD) in Texas, that shift has meant embracing AI-powered cameras and live video to provide the extra layer of support their riders with disabilities need.

Royse City ISD: A District on the Rise

Royse City ISD transports over 8,000 students each week across three rapidly growing counties near Dallas, including more than 800 with special needs. Executive Director of Transportation Cody Cox, a lifelong student transportation professional who started as a bus driver, leads the operation.

As the district grows, so will its transportation needs. The district grows by about 1,000 students annually, forcing the purchase of new vehicles to meet both growth and replacement needs. The challenge with such rapid expansion is maintaining the same quality of safety for every student while also meeting the area’s transportation demands. This remains especially true for RCISD’s special education vehicle fleet, and is what prompted Cox to search for an effective solution.

Turning to Technology for Support

Transporting students with special needs requires extra care. These riders may need closer supervision, and drivers must balance safe operations with clear communication and visibility into what happens on board. For districts, the challenge is finding ways to provide that extra support while maintaining efficiency across the fleet.

For Royse City ISD, rapid growth made this challenge even more pressing. To strengthen safety protocols across its special education fleet, which includes SUVs, vans, and buses, Cody Cox began looking for technology that was versatile, reliable, and cost-effective.

“I was looking for a solution that was more cost-effective without losing any of the features of our larger DVRs,” Cox explained.

Earlier this year, the district piloted Safety Vision’s SafeDrive-AI 2, pairing its dual-camera driver system with four additional interior and exterior cameras to provide real-time awareness and added coverage across its diverse fleet of special education vehicles.

For Cox’s team, live-streaming from vehicles carrying high-needs students provided critical reassurance. Dispatchers could monitor in real time, step in quickly, and support onboard staff when needed. At the same time, AI-powered alerts from SafeDrive-AI 2 added another layer of protection, helping drivers identify potential risks on the road. Recorded video also proved essential, giving the district an objective account of incidents and concerns.

“Footage is very important to investigate situations and concerns,” Cox said. “It often gives us a better understanding of what was going on so we can provide better support to staff and students.”

(Article continues after video.)

Advice for Districts Considering Safety Technology

Looking ahead, RCISD has committed to outfitting its new special education vehicles and white fleet vehicles with the SafeDrive AI 2 system piloted earlier this year. For Cox, the decision reflects not only the benefits his team has already seen but also the long-term value of proactive safety tools. His advice to other districts is straightforward: “I would recommend they try them on new vehicles or retrofit some vehicles to see just how great the coverage is for the cost.”

By starting small, he suggests districts can experience firsthand how live video, AI alerts, and recorded footage work together to enhance safety without a major upfront investment. The system’s flexibility is another advantage because it can be customized and scaled to fit any fleet size. For a growing district like RCISD, partnering with a provider that can expand with their needs is key to ensuring lasting safety across all student transportation vehicles.

Technology as a Long-Term Safety Partner

Student safety will always be the cornerstone of school transportation, but for special education fleets, that responsibility comes with unique requirements. Royse City ISD’s experience shows how technology can play a pivotal role in meeting those requirements. By giving dispatchers real-time visibility and providing drivers with timely support they can be proactive, rather than reactive, when it comes to the safety of all students and staff.

As districts of all sizes continue to face growth, tighter budgets, and increasing expectations from parents and communities, tools like live video and AI-powered alerts are helping transportation teams move from reacting to incidents to preventing them. For leaders like Cody Cox, the message is clear: scalable, customizable solutions aren’t just add-ons, they’re becoming essential partners in ensuring safe, reliable transportation for every student, every day.

Learn more at safetyvision.com.

The views expressed are those of the content sponsor and do not reflect those of School Transportation News.

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For district leaders, student safety and cost-efficiency are paramount during daily pupil transport. However, if a district only has telematics for school bus GPS tracking, they’re missing deeper insights that can help them better protect their students and drivers, reduce expenses and take better care of their buses.

Download this “Beyond Dots on a Map” ebook to discover how to take your school bus operation management strategies farther than just GPS tracking can. This ebook will teach you how a school bus fleet management platform can help you:

• Monitor driver behaviors like speeding, harsh braking, accelerations and more to coach against hazardous driving.
• Save time and increase accuracy with digital inspection logs.
• Administer more timely maintenance to your buses.
• Pursue sustainability initiatives like electric buses and reduce CO2 emissions.

Get your copy of this ebook now to begin transforming the efficiency and safety of your student transportation operations.

Simply fill out the form below to receive the ebook in your inbox!

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Leadership takes the front page in this month’s issue as the school year rolls on and student transportation leaders tackle a variety of challenges to keep services running smoothly. Hear from the 2025 Top Transportation Team award winners on building strong workplace culture, find what keeps directors in their current roles and learn more about purchasing trends for transportation related technology. Read blogs on the power of influential leadership, prioritizing professional development and more.

Find the preview for the upcoming Transporting Students with Disabilities and Special Needs (TSD) Conference to learn more about the speakers, topics and events coming to Texas on Nov. 6-11.

Read the full October 2025 issue.

Cover Story

Rite of Passage
Students have gone back to school around the nation, and transportation directors share the challenges and solutions to keeping the school bus wheels going “round and round.”

Features

Small Moments, Big Impacts
Culture is the special sauce that drives the Top Transportation Teams award presented at STN EXPO West in Reno, Nevada.

Purchasing Trends Fluctuate
With the new school year underway, school districts share their most wanted purchase items and the expected benefits of each new product or technology.

Special Reports

Follow the ‘Golden’ Brick Road
Department culture and administrative support are leading factors for keeping transportation leaders in their current role or prompting them to look elsewhere.

TSD Conference Preview

Feedback
Online
Transportation Director Salaries by U.S. Region
Ad Index

Editor’s Take by Ryan Gray
Giving Birth to Proper Leadership

Thought Leader by Rosalyn Vann-Jackson
Leading from the Front (Without Just Taking A Walk)

Thought Leader by Linda Bluth
Alternative School Transportation: A Roadmap for Decision- Making for Children with Disabilities and Special Needs

Publisher’s Corner by Tony Corpin
Prioritize Your Professional Growth

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SANTA FE, N.M., – GreenPower Motor Company Inc. (“GreenPower”) and the New Mexico Economic Development Department have announced the launching of the New Mexico All-Electric, Purpose-Built, Zero-Emission School Bus Pilot Project at two Las Vegas public schools and a Santa Fe charter school.

GreenPower (NASDAQ: GP) (TSXV: GPV), a leading manufacturer and distributor of all-electric, purpose-built, zero-emission medium and heavy-duty vehicles serving the cargo and delivery market, shuttle and transit space, and school bus sector, today announced the launch of the New Mexico All-Electric, Purpose-Built, Zero-Emission School Bus Pilot Project with deployments of the Type A Nano BEAST at the Las Vegas City Schools and West Las Vegas Schools and the Type A Nano BEAST Access at the Monte del Sol Charter School in Santa Fe.

“GreenPower is pleased to begin this two-year pilot project with the State of New Mexico with three Nano BEASTs in schools that are excited to evaluate all-electric transportation options for school kids,” said Brendan Riley, president of GreenPower. “By focusing the first year of the project on the Type A Nano BEAST, the state and school districts will have a unique opportunity to see how the all-electric vehicle performs in differing conditions with different sets of charging infrastructure.”

GreenPower entered into an MOU with the State of New Mexico to assess the viability and reliability of fast charging in various environments and circumstances. The school districts’ participation in the pilot is voluntary, and the state has agreed to support the program with $5 million in capital outlay appropriation to purchase the vehicles and cover the cost of the pilot project.

The 2-year pilot program supports New Mexico’s dedication to the Energy Transition Act, designed to transition the state toward the goal of 100% zero-carbon electricity supply by 2045, while also providing support for affected communities and ensuring cost protections for residents.

According to the MOU, after two successful pilot phases, EDD will support an additional $15 million for more school buses. The state also pledges to work with GreenPower to expand the all-electric, zero-emission commercial fleet at the Department of Transportation and the General Services Department.

The two-year pilot project will deploy three GreenPower Type A all-electric, purpose-built, zero-emission school buses in the first school year (2025-26), and two GreenPower Type D all-electric, purpose-built, zero-emission BEAST school buses and one Mega BEAST school bus in the second school year (2026-27). The school buses will rotate around the state for five pilot rounds each school year, with each round lasting six weeks. GreenPower will install charging systems through its Pilot Project partnership with Highland Electric Fleets, provide training for drivers, mechanics, and the community’s first responders, and track telematics through a partnership with Geotab. GreenPower will provide a detailed report to the state at the end of each school year.

“Among some of the data that will be collected is range, charging infrastructure needs, handling and maneuverability, operating and maintenance savings, student and parent acceptance, and more,” said GreenPower CEO Fraser Atkinson. “The data will help with the idea of change as schools look to create a new beginning of a clean, healthy school day.”

“As we transition towards a more flexible, diversified, and environmentally sustainable economy, we are dedicated to achieving carbon-free power,” stated Rob Black, cabinet secretary of EDD. “This is also an opportunity to introduce young students to alternative energy sources. The steps we take today will not only promote a greener future but also inspire a new generation of environmental stewards.”

“Las Vegas City Schools is proud to be one of three New Mexico schools participating in this first round of the GreenPower pilot project, and we look forward to seeing how an all-electric school bus can benefit our school system and students,” said Melissa Sandoval, Superintendent at Las Vegas City Schools.

“We have been looking at grant opportunities to begin migrating from diesel to all-electric school buses for the past couple of years,” said Christopher Gutierrez, superintendent at West Las Vegas Schools. “Participating in this pilot project will allow us to determine the best ways to integrate zero-emission buses into our fleet.”

“Our charter school is always searching for new, innovative ways to serve our students and communities,” said Dr. Zoe Nelson, head learner for Monte del Sol Charter School. “We are honored to have been chosen to participate in the state’s all-electric school bus pilot program. Our school believes in safe, sustainable, and sensible alternatives, and I cannot wait to see the multitude of benefits this investment will yield for the deserving children of the Land of Enchantment.”

About the Nano BEAST
The Nano BEAST has a standard 118 kWh battery pack and a range of up to 140 miles. Configured for up to 24 passengers, it features a seamlessly integrated aluminum body made from extruded aluminum manufactured by Constellium. The Nano BEAST is built on the EV Star Cab & Chassis which is the same platform as the EV Star Passenger Van that passed the FTA Altoona Bus Testing program with one of the highest scores ever achieved. The dual port charging is standard, with Level 2 rates up to 19.2 kW and DC Fast Charging rates up to 60 kW. Nano BEAST Access has seating for up to 20 ambulatory passengers and up to 3+ Q’STRAINT wheelchair securements, complemented with a BraunAbility rear curbside lift.

About GreenPower Motor Company Inc.
GreenPower designs, builds and distributes a full suite of high-floor and low-floor all-electric medium and heavy-duty vehicles, including transit buses, school buses, shuttles, cargo van and a cab and chassis. GreenPower employs a clean-sheet design to manufacture all-electric vehicles that are purpose built to be battery powered with zero emissions while integrating global suppliers for key components. This OEM platform allows GreenPower to meet the specifications of various operators while providing standard parts for ease of maintenance and accessibility for warranty requirements. GreenPower was founded in Vancouver, Canada, with primary operational facilities in southern California. Listed on the Toronto exchange since November 2015, GreenPower completed its U.S. IPO and NASDAQ listing in August 2020. For further information, go to www.greenpowermotor.com.

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PORTLAND, Ore. — Daimler Truck North America LLC (DTNA) today announced the consolidation of Thomas Built Buses (TBB) and Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation (FCCC) into a new division – Daimler Truck Specialty Vehicles (DTSV). This strategic move brings the two organizations under one cohesive structure to create greater synergies, enhance customer service, improve operational efficiency and accelerate innovation across the specialty vehicle segment.

DTSV builds on the heritage and expertise of both TBB and FCCC, combining their strengths with the scale, resources and technology of Daimler Truck North America. By aligning products that serve distinct specialty markets, including school buses, walk-in vans and recreational vehicles, the division creates a unified platform for customer-focused solutions. FCCC supplies the chassis for Thomas Built Buses and other purpose-built vehicles, making this integration a strategic and natural alignment. DTSV is designed to foster collaboration, simplify processes and unlock capacity to deliver stronger, more efficient solutions across the markets both brands serve.

“This new structure is a strategic step forward in how we serve our customers,” said Jeff Allen, senior vice president of operations and head of specialty vehicles at DTNA. “We’re not only simplifying how we operate – we’re strengthening our ability to deliver for our customers. This move reflects our long-term commitment to building a more connected, responsive and resilient organization – one that empowers our people and delivers on the expectations of those who rely on our vehicles every day.”

“By bringing together the strengths of Thomas Built Buses and Freightliner Custom Chassis, Daimler Truck Specialty Vehicles is now positioned to move faster, serve customers even better and operate with greater focus,” said T.J. Reed, who will lead the organization as president and CEO of Daimler Truck Specialty Vehicles. “With a strong manufacturing footprint in the Carolinas and a unified team, we are ready to meet the needs of our dealers and customers with renewed agility, confidence and purpose.”

Daimler Truck Specialty Vehicles has appointed a leadership team that reflects the combined strengths and expertise of both Thomas Built Buses and Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation.

Caleb Judge, chief financial officer, responsible for overseeing finance and controlling to ensure financial alignment across DTSV. Kendra Eads, head of engineering, leading the integration of engineering capabilities into a single, streamlined organization with unified design tools and methods. Nick Rini, head of quality and customer experience, unifying quality and customer experience (CX) functions to deliver an even more seamless experience for customers and dealers.

Thomas Built Buses, based in High Point, North Carolina, is one of the leading school bus manufacturers in the United States, employing approximately 500 people. Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation, located in Gaffney, South Carolina, employs over 1000 people and is a top manufacturer of premium chassis for walk-in vans, motorhomes and commercial vehicles with over 450 service locations.

About Daimler Truck North America
Daimler Truck North America LLC (DTNA), headquartered in Portland, Oregon, is the largest manufacturer of heavy-duty trucks in North America and a leading provider of innovative products, services, and technologies for the commercial transportation industry. DTNA designs, engineers, manufactures and markets medium- and heavy-duty trucks, school buses, vehicle chassis and related technologies and components under the Freightliner, Western Star, Thomas Built Buses, Freightliner Custom Chassis Corp and Detroit brands. As a subsidiary of Daimler Truck, one of the world’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturers, DTNA is dedicated to delivering exceptional value and support to its customers – helping them keep the world moving. For more information, visit northamerica.daimlertruck.com.

About Thomas Built Buses
Founded in 1916, Thomas Built Buses is a leading manufacturer of school buses in North America. Since the first Thomas Built bus rolled off the assembly line, the company has been committed to delivering the smartest and most innovative buses in North America. Thomas Built Buses, Inc., headquartered in High Point, North Carolina, is a subsidiary of Daimler Truck North America LLC, a Daimler Truck company. Learn more at thomasbuiltbuses.com or facebook.com/thomasbuiltbuses.

About Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation (FCCC)
Established in 1995 and headquartered in Gaffney, SC, Freightliner Custom Chassis Corp. (FCCC) is a leading manufacturer of premium chassis for the RV, medium-duty commercial truck and shuttle bus markets. FCCC supports its industry-leading chassis with a comprehensive suite of services, including 24/7 factory direct support, a nationwide service network with more than 400 dealers in the U.S. and Canada, and an official customer-support mobile app. FCCC also manufactures chassis for the work truck, walk-in van, school bus and shuttle bus markets. Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation is a subsidiary of Daimler Truck North America LLC, a Daimler Truck company. For more information, visit fcccrv.com or call 1-800-FTL-HELP.

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SAN ANTONIO, Texas- HOLT Truck Centers, an operating company of HOLT Group, donated five heavy-duty trucks to promote diesel technician training at three schools in Oklahoma, highlighting their commitment to education, workforce development, and the future of the skilled trades industry.

The donation includes two trucks each to Francis Tuttle Technology Center and Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology, and one truck to Tulsa Tech. Each truck weighs more than 50,000 pounds and is equipped with advanced systems that aim to help students bridge the gap between theory and practice.

“We are proud to support programs that are shaping the future of our skilled trades workforce,” said Robert Fulgium, senior vice president of HOLT Truck Centers. “At HOLT Truck Centers, we recognize the critical importance of providing students with access to industry-standard equipment, ensuring they graduate job-ready and confident in their abilities. Training on the latest tools and technologies will give students a competitive edge as they transition into the workforce.”

The donation comes at an important time, as industry experts forecast a growing technician shortage due to retiring baby boomers and an increasing demand for skilled trade professionals. According to TechForce Foundation’s 2024 Technician Supply and Demand Report, the United States will need more than 249,000 new techs by 2028 to meet demand.

This growing gap threatens productivity and service reliability. HOLT Truck Centers’ donation aims to address this issue by providing schools with the tools to train more students and strengthen the workforce pipeline.

The trucks will be used across several training programs to enhance hands-on learning in the diesel industry. They will combine classroom instruction with evolving technologies like hybrid and electric systems, help meet rising student interest, and provide practical experience for students training to become diesel technicians.

HOLT Truck Centers’ donation reflects their goal to support students and empower entire communities by helping close the talent gap in skilled trades.

About HOLT Truck Centers:
HOLT Truck Centers is the authorized International and Idealease dealer in Oklahoma, North Texas, and East Texas. Additionally, HOLT Truck Centers has dedicated truck engine service bays throughout its full-service facilities, with the necessary components to provide bumper-to-bumper diagnostics, maintenance, and emergency service, including brakes, drivelines and transmissions for all makes and models of on-highway trucks, RVs, and buses.

With a large selection of new and used on highway trucks, trailers and specialty equipment, HOLT Truck Centers has the inventory to meet your needs. Other manufacturers available at HOLT Truck Centers include IC Bus, Isuzu commercial trucks, XL Specialized, Crane Carrier, Load King, and Hi-Vac specialty vehicles. HOLT Truck Centers has 36 locations throughout Texas and Oklahoma.For more information, visit HoltTruckCenters.com.

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FOSTER CITY, Calif. and TEANECK, N.J., – As the 2025 school year gets under way in New Jersey, the students in Teaneck, Midland Park, and Ramsey public school districts will be breathing easier as they enjoy the ride in fully-electric Type B school buses operated by D&M Tours. The zero-tailpipe emission buses, manufactured by Motiv Electric Trucks and upfitted by Van-Con, Inc. will replace aging gasoline buses. The project was developed and managed by Climate Change Mitigation Technologies LLC (CCMT).

“With the start of the new school year, these new buses are on their routes, picking up and dropping off school children safely and sustainably,” said Tim Palomba, CEO of D&M Tours in Paterson, New Jersey. “These children and their communities will benefit greatly from the Motiv-Van-Con electric buses which dramatically reduce noise and air pollution in the bus “cabin” as well as in the multiple communities along the routes. Zero-emission buses are especially important for the Type A and B school buses that Van-Con makes because they are often used to transport special needs children, who generally spend a greater amount of time on a school bus than the other students.”

The four electric Type B school buses feature Motiv’s proven EPIC 4 platform and Van-Con’s safe and durable school bus body. Each bus eliminates idling, noise and vibrations as well as tailpipe pollution and CO2 emissions, providing students a healthy, quiet and safe ride to school. The routes serviced by this project, like many school transportation routes, are ideal for electrification due to their local, repetitive, predictable nature and the fleet’s ability to charge overnight at a central depot.

Editor’s note — The “New Jersey Type B” is a subclass of Type A school buses the state uses when the vehicle weighs more than a10,000 pounds GVWR.

D&M tours will replace four older gasoline buses, avoiding up to 3,000 gallons of fossil fuel and related costs annually. Over the 15-year useful life of the project it is estimated that the Motiv electric buses will log 1,134,000 miles and eliminate over 2 million pounds of tailpipe emissions.

In addition to the health benefits, there are significant economic benefits to the district. According to an analysis from the Electric School Bus Initiative, an electric school bus can save the district more than $100,000 in lifetime fuel and maintenance savings compared to an equivalent diesel bus.

The school buses will travel between D&M’s fleet depot in Paterson to students in Teaneck, Midland Park, Ramsey, and multiple communities in between, providing health benefits all along the way. Research has shown prolonged exposure to poor air quality increases rates of heart disease, impaired lung function and lower IQ levels. Paterson accounts for 62 percent of all asthma Emergency Room visits in Passaic County, but only accounts for 29 percent of the Passaic County’s population. Children in Passaic County under the age of 5 have an asthma rate that is 65 percent higher than the New Jersey statewide average.

“This is a wonderful representation of our Better Trucks, Better World vision. Replacing aging diesel school buses with clean, electric alternatives represents exactly the kind of meaningful health and environmental progress we’re working to accelerate as we expand the presence of our class 4 electric truck platform,” said Scott Griffith, CEO of Motiv Electric Trucks. “Students, drivers, and the communities these buses serve will all benefit from the elimination of harmful diesel emissions, while D&M Tours gains the operational advantages and cost savings of electric.”

“We are pleased to deliver these buses to one of our best customers as he helps lead the school bus industry into the next century,” said Jim Anderson, President of Van-Con, Inc. “These four buses are the first four of a total of 29 electric school buses we are building with Motiv for districts and contractors across New Jersey.”

“Climate Change Mitigation Technologies LLC (CCMT) appreciates the opportunity to partner with D&M Tours, Inc., Van-Con, Inc., and Motiv to deliver the first fleet of electric school buses built in part in New Jersey,” said James Sherman, CEO of CCMT. He noted that “CCMT’s integration of the buses, DCFC chargers, and OCPP charge management software gives D&M the operational control of charging, real-time economic transparency of charging costs, and management reports it needs. I am pleased to report that the electric school bus fleet, chargers, and control software integration worked seamlessly all summer long.”

Other project partners include the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) which provided funding for the project, Vanore Electric, Inc., which was the electrical contractor for the project; PSE&G, which helped expedite the project, and Grid Link, Inc., which was the OCPP/charge management software system provider.

A ribbon-cutting event is scheduled for Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at 11 am at the D&M Tours facility at 20 Shady Street in Paterson, NJ. Persons interested in attending may contact jsherman@ccmtdg.com for an invitation.

About Motiv Electric Trucks
Founded in 2009, Motiv is a privately held company headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area. Motiv is a leading manufacturer of medium duty, zero-emission electric trucks and buses, producing a range of vehicles, including step vans, shuttle buses, box trucks, and work trucks, designed to eliminate tailpipe CO2 emissions and particulate matter, while offering drivers and passengers a more comfortable, healthier and safer ride.

Motiv’s combination of operational cost savings and environmental performance helps customers meet emissions and pollution standards as well as achieve their own net-zero, ESG or other climate impact-related pledges and commitments.

On August 15, 2025, Motiv and Workhorse Group Inc. (Nasdaq: WKHS) entered into a definitive merger agreement to combine in a transaction that will create a leading North American medium-duty electric truck OEM. The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2025, subject to approval by Workhorse’s shareholders and other customary closing conditions.

More information about the company’s products and services is available at https://www.motivtrucks.com.

About Van-Con, Inc.
Van-Con, Inc. is a 50 year old New Jersey company founded on the principle of safety first. Starting with Paul Anderson, Sr. back in 1973 and continuing today under Jim and Linda Anderson, Van-Con, Inc. has been a school bus innovator from the start. This means being one of the earliest proponents for school bus safety standards, development of the first 16 passenger Type A school bus, and one of the first school bus body builders to offer ADA compliant wheel-chair lifts. Today, Van-Con, Inc. manufactures a variety of Type A and B school buses and there are literally hundreds of Van-Con school buses on the road with scores of customers across New Jersey. Van-Con, Inc. is located in Middlesex, NJ. www.vanconbus.com

About Climate Change Mitigation Technologies LLC (CCMT).
CCMT is the leading low, zero, and negative carbon fuels and fleets project development and management firm in New Jersey that provides advisory services and also delivers design-build fully operational charging or fueling infrastructure. CCMT has delivered hydrogen and electric truck and bus fleet projects and is currently working on renewable natural gas (RNG) projects for public and private fleets. Among CCMT’s completed projects are the 2021 delivery of 5 BYD garbage trucks to the Jersey City DPW; the 2022 delivery of 10 BYD terminal tractors to the Red Hook Container Terminal in Port Newark, NJ; the 2025 delivery of 2 BYD garbage trucks and 3 Motiv senior citizen shuttle buses to Woodbridge Township, NJ; the 2025 delivery of 1 BYD garbage truck and 2 Motiv commuter “HOP” shuttle buses to Hoboken, NJ; and the 2025 delivery of multiple Motiv dry goods box and cold plate last mile delivery trucks to the Elizabeth Board of Education.

About D&M Tours, Inc.
D&M Tours, Inc. has been in business for over 25 years and is one of the largest private school bus contractors in northern New Jersey and a leader in the drive to more sustainable fuels and school buses. The D&M fleet consists of diesel, gasoline, propane, and now electric school buses. D&M is trusted to serve some of the largest and smallest school districts in New Jersey including Paramus, Teaneck, and other public and private schools. D&M is also a pillar of the local Paterson, NJ community, providing a source of employment for dozens of drivers, mechanics, dispatchers, yardmen, and others whom together make D&M one of the safest and cleanest operators in the business.

The post Motiv Electric Trucks, Van-Con, Inc. and CCMT Bring Clean Electric School Buses to D&M Tours and the Teaneck, Midland Park, and Ramsey New Jersey Boards of Education appeared first on School Transportation News.

Now that you’ve made it through the beginning of the new school year, this is the optimal time to tune your transportation operations.  Learn how to leverage your live ridership, routing, and call volume data to reduce missed stops, decrease parent inquiries, and enhance on-time performance.

Join Pathwise and School Transportation News on Thursday, October 9, at 10:00 a.m. PT / 1:00 p.m. ET for a live 60-minute session to discover how to convert your early-semester data into concrete mid-year gains without replacing your current routing platform.

In this session, you’ll get practical tips on how to:

• Reassess your routes using current ridership signals (scan data, driver logs, parent app activity, no-show patterns)
• Improve routing reliability with targeted fixes for tier balancing, stop consolidation, bell-time alignment, and more, instead of major re-routes
• Track ridership more accurately using count audits, exception workflows, and reconciliations, and turn these insights into schedule improvements
• Operationalize KPIs that matter—on-time percentage, call-center volume, and parent notification latency—so you know where adjustments may need to be made.

Bottom line: This isn’t starting over; it’s making smarter use of tools, data, and processes you already have—to ensure smoother operations throughout the rest of the year.

Who should attend: Transportation directors, routing/dispatch leads, and operations managers.

Brought to you by Pathwise

REGISTER BELOW:

Presenters:

Michael Roche
VP of Customer Engagement and Business Development
EZRouting

With over 13 years of experience as a Director of Transportation for a school district, Roche possesses extensive expertise in overseeing logistical operations and ensuring the safety and efficiency of transportation systems. Transitioning into consulting, he has utilized his knowledge to aid school districts in optimizing transportation operations and implementing software solutions. Currently, Roche is committed to collaborating with school districts across the country, assisting them in maximizing the benefits of the software and providing comprehensive consulting services tailored to their transportation requirements.

Carl Allen
Chief Executive Officer
4MATIV

Carl Allen is an experienced leader in education, transportation, and public policy, currently serving as CEO and founder of 4MATIV Technologies, which he launched in 2018. He previously served as Director of Transportation for Boston Public Schools, Regional Vice President for Transdev in Colorado, and COO/CFO of a charter school network in Minneapolis. Drawing on his training in urban planning and public policy from Harvard’s Kennedy School, and his early experience as a Peace Corps Volunteer teaching high school math in Ghana, Allen supports school districts in tackling complex transportation challenges. He holds degrees in industrial and manufacturing design engineering from Northwestern University and lives in St. Paul, Minnesota with his wife and three children.

The post (Free Webinar) From First Day to Fine-Tuning: Optimizing Your Transportation Operations Following the Return to School appeared first on School Transportation News.

LISLE, Ill. – Durham School Services and its sister brands have partnered with Universal Technical Institute (UTI) to help develop and recruit the next generation of skilled diesel technician team members. Through this collaboration, Durham will join UTI’s Tuition Reimbursement Program (TRIP), which helps employers attract and retain top talent. As part of the partnership, Durham is offering a $3,000 relocation bonus to all UTI Diesel Technology graduates who accept employment and relocate for a position.

As a participating TRIP employer, Durham and its sister brands will be able to showcase their career opportunities through UTI’s career pages, job boards, print collateral, digital campaigns, and on-campus job fairs – linking students with a potential post-graduation employer that is ready to hire skilled transportation technicians.

Melanie Scheet, Senior Vice President of Student Success and Outcomes at UTI, noted, “Our industry partnerships underscore the high demand for skilled technicians and the value of a UTI education, which produces graduates who are workforce-ready. We look forward to working with Durham School Services to connect our students and alumni with fulfilling career opportunities at their company.”

“We are thrilled to announce our partnership with UTI to hire diesel technicians nationwide,” said Yvonne Valdes, Senior Director of Talent Acquisition, Durham School Services. “This collaboration represents our commitment to innovation and excellence in the transportation industry. By offering relocation assistance, we aim to attract top talent and give them the support they need to thrive. Together with UTI, we look forward to building a stronger workforce and continuing to deliver exceptional service to our customers.”

About Durham School Services: As an industry-leading student transportation provider, Durham School Services and its sister brands, Stock Transportation and Petermann Bus, are dedicated to the safety of our students and People. Collectively, for more than 100 years, we have been committed to Excellence and upholding our mission of getting students to school safely, on time, and ready to learn. Through this mission and a grassroots approach to our operations, Durham School Services and its sister brands have earned recognition as a trusted transportation provider among our Customers and the Communities they serve.

About Universal Technical Institute, Inc.
Universal Technical Institute, Inc. was founded in 1965 and is a leading workforce solutions provider serving students, partners and communities nationwide. The company offers high-quality education and support services for in-demand careers via its two divisions: UTI and Concorde Career Colleges. The UTI division operates 15 campuses located in nine states and offers a wide range of transportation, skilled trades, electrical and energy training programs. Concorde operates across 17 campuses in eight states and online, offering programs in the allied health, dental, nursing, patient care and diagnostic fields. For more information, visit www.uti.edu or www.concorde.edu; LinkedIn at @UniversalTechnicalInstitute and @Concorde Career Colleges; or X at @news_UTI and @ConcordeCareer.

The post Durham School Services and Universal Technical Institute Partner to Power the Next Generation of Diesel Technicians appeared first on School Transportation News.

LOS ANGELES, Calif. – HopSkipDrive today announced its new Hub-and-Spoke offering is available across the country to help school transportation officials select effective school bus pickup locations, paired with a network of drivers in small vehicles to help students connect at these centralized stops.

This unique offering is designed for a changing school transportation landscape. It combines HopSkipDrive’s proprietary AI-driven transportation intelligence platform, RouteWise AI, with a network of new drivers in small vehicles called CareDrivers, local caregivers who complete the HopSkipDrive 15-point certification process.
HopSkipDrive, a technology company solving complex transportation challenges supporting more than 13,500 schools, developed this offering in direct response to findings from the 2025 State of School Transportation Report. In the context of increased nationwide bus driver shortages, school administrators report growing numbers of students who qualify for free transportation. At the same time, these transportation staffers agree centralized pick-up and drop-off options can be a solution.

“Schools can use RouteWise AI to design efficient routing and stops that best utilize a system’s existing drivers while increasing bus rider utilization,” explained Joanna McFarland, CEO and Co-Founder of HopSkipDrive. “HopSkipDrive CareDrivers can then efficiently and safely bring students from multiple different locations to centralized bus stops. Leveraging our expertise in centralized transportation with partners like Tolleson Union High School District, we’ve transformed this offering with AI to meet current needs for out-of-district, choice policy, and highly mobile students.”

Confirmation of A Need for New Solutions
HopSkipDrive partnered with the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs to release a September State of School Transportation survey of more than 500 school administrators:

● While 90% of school administrator respondents reported rising or stagnant numbers in the number of students who qualify for free, school-provided transportation, 81% of this audience said school bus driver shortages are a problem.

● A majority (73%) favor organizing centralized pick-up and drop-off locations for students using school buses and allowing schools or districts to use school-arranged supplemental school transportation services such as cars and vans (65%).

How the Hub-and-Spoke Model Works
RouteWise AI provides transportation plan scenarios for Denver Public Schools and other districts, building cost-effective multimodal transportation systems utilizing buses and/or small vehicles. It will identify centralized bus stop hubs and efficient bus routes, resulting in 40% capital savings, 46% increased efficiency or 17% more on-time arrivals, and delivering solutions for bus driver shortages.

Once these hubs and bus stops are identified, school district clients can lean on HopSkipDrive’s network of safe, vetted drivers in small vehicles to transport students to those centralized stops. In turn, school buses can run quicker, more efficient routes with higher utilization. School districts interested in working with HopSkipDrive can request more information here.

About HopSkipDrive:
HopSkipDrive is a technology company that solves complex transportation challenges where there is a heightened need for safety, equity, and care. HopSkipDrive is modernizing the $30 billion school transportation industry through two core solutions: a care-centered transportation marketplace and an industry-leading transportation intelligence platform, RouteWise AI.

HopSkipDrive’s marketplace supplements school buses and existing transportation options by connecting kids to highly-vetted caregivers on wheels, such as grandparents, babysitters, and nurses in local communities. RouteWise AI helps schools and districts address critical challenges, including budget cuts, bus driver shortages, and reaching climate goals. HopSkipDrive has supported over 13,500 schools across 17 states, with nearly 1,300 school districts, government agencies, and nonprofit partners. More than five million rides over 95 million miles have been completed through HopSkipDrive since the company was founded in 2014 by three working mothers.

The post HopSkipDrive Launches New Hub-and-Spoke Model For School Transportation Roadmap appeared first on School Transportation News.

DENVER, Colo. -EverDriven, the nation’s leader in Alternative Student Transportation, today announced significant momentum in Texas, where its growing network now supports more than 14,446 students. Over the past 13 years in Texas, EverDriven has completed 860,286 trips and driven over 12.5 million miles. Since entering into the state in 2012, EverDriven has become a critical partner in ensuring students — particularly those with the greatest needs — arrive at school safe, calm, and ready to learn.

With 102 school district partnerships across Texas, EverDriven is uniquely positioned to serve one of the nation’s largest and most complex education systems. This school year, the majority of students the company transports are among the state’s most vulnerable — 86% experiencing housing instability under the McKinney-Vento Act and 9% requiring special education support. By delivering flexible, student-centered rides that complement traditional yellow bus service, EverDriven expands districts’ ability to meet these diverse needs at scale.

Districts served include some of the largest in the nation — such as Dallas ISD, Houston ISD, and Plano ISD — as well as newly added districts this year, including Waco ISD, Aledo ISD, and Red Oak ISD.

“EverDriven has become a trusted partner in helping us deliver on our promise to families,” said Jazmin Harrison, Ph.D., Executive Director of Student Transportation Services, Dallas Independent School District. “Their consistent, safe, and student-centered service helps us meet the diverse needs of our students — particularly those experiencing housing instability or requiring specialized support. The visibility and reliability they bring to our transportation program gives us confidence that every student can access the education they deserve.”

EverDriven’s service in Texas has grown rapidly: last school year alone, the company transported 2,299 students, completed 100,749 trips, and driven nearly 2 million miles across the state.

“Texas is leading the way in adopting modern approaches to student transportation,” said Mitch Bowling, CEO of EverDriven. “From large districts like Dallas and Houston to smaller, rural communities, we’re proud to work alongside schools across the state to deliver safe solutions families can count on. With our human-led, tech-enabled approach, we’re helping districts provide every student with a consistent and reliable ride that supports their ability to learn.”

In addition to growth in student ridership, EverDriven is helping Texas districts raise the bar for safety and visibility. Through its human-led, tech-enabled approach, the company is equipping schools with its 360-Degree Student Experience, giving districts, caregivers, and administrators full visibility of every ride to strengthen safety, transparency, and accountability.

Together, with a 99.99% safety record, 100% compliance in driver and vehicle safety checks, and a commitment to consistency, EverDriven is redefining what modern student transportation means for Texas families and districts. Its combination of flexible routing, rigorous safety protocols, and real-time visibility gives districts confidence and families peace of mind.

Looking ahead, EverDriven plans to expand service to additional districts, roll out new technology that enhances visibility, and continue raising the bar for safety. As Texas’s student population grows more diverse and mobility needs more complex, EverDriven remains committed to innovating alongside districts to ensure every child can access education through safe, consistent, and modern transportation — today and into the future.

About EverDriven:
EverDriven delivers modern student-centered transportation that’s safe, consistent, and built for those who need it most. EverDriven specializes in transporting students across a wide range of needs — from everyday support to the most complex circumstances including students with disabilities, students experiencing housing instability, and other high-need populations. Serving more than 800 districts across 36 states, the company completed over 2 million trips last year, 99.99% of them accident-free with 100% safety compliance. EverDriven’s deeply human, fully compliant, and AI-powered approach helps districts get students on the road in hours, not days, while maintaining consistent, high-trust rides that complement traditional yellow bus fleets. For more information, visit everdriven.com.

The post EverDriven Expands Momentum in Texas, Safely Delivering Nearly 15,000 Students to School Across 12.5 Million Miles appeared first on School Transportation News.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. –Ann Arbor Public Schools (AAPS) started off the new school year by welcoming students back safely thanks to the support from its transportation provider, Durham School Services. As part of its back-to-school preparation training, the Durham team refined and practiced various safety and driving skills and performed practice runs of their routes to ensure familiarity and efficiency. In total, Durham runs 112 routes and transports over 5,000 students to and from the school every day for the district.

“The Ann Arbor Public Schools is pleased to be working with Durham School Services who provides the district’s general education and special education bus service. The management staff, led by manager Renae Pickel and her team, partner with us to provide transportation services to over 5,000 students,” said Liz Margolis, Executive Director of School Safety & District Operations, Ann Arbor Public Schools. “The Durham team also works with us to ensure students are scheduled for busing in the most efficient manner and to assess the routes during the first few weeks of school for any improvements in service. Further, they understand our families and the expected level of service. We look forward to a smooth 2025-2026 school year for transportation.”

In addition to celebrating the successful start to the school year, AAPS and Durham are also celebrating a three-year extension to its already decades-long partnership. The new partnership between AAPS and Durham extends through 2028 and plans are currently underway to transition the school’s fleet of buses to electric vehicles (EV).

Durham was one of five providers that submitted a proposal in response to AAPS’ request for proposals and was recommended by the review committee after careful and thorough consideration. In the recommendation letter, which is publicly accessible, it was noted that, “Over the contract term, Durham focused on student safety, on-time performance, and customer service, with an expertly maintained fleet of updated buses. The Durham Ann Arbor operation has consistently been awarded the Michigan State Police Certificate of Excellence for a 100% pass rate for all school bus safety inspections.”

“Maintaining and building a decade-long partnership, as you can imagine, takes significant dedication, effort, and hard work,” said Renae Pickel, General Manager, Durham School Services. “Thanks to our team members, we’ve not only been given the opportunity to continue serving AAPS for another three years but also had our best school start-up in years. We had a driver in every seat covering all 112 routes and all routes ran successfully. That is such an immense achievement, and I can’t help but feel a huge sense of pride for what my team has accomplished through their diligence and immeasurable efforts. Lastly, on behalf of the team, I’d like to express how truly appreciative we are for the school’s trust and recognition of our team’s commitment to always providing the utmost safe, dependable service to their students and community.”

About Durham School Services: As an industry-leading student transportation provider, Durham School Services and its sister brands, Stock Transportation and Petermann Bus, are dedicated to the safety of our students and People. Collectively, for more than 100 years, we have been committed to Excellence and upholding our mission of getting students to school safely, on time, and ready to learn. Through this mission and a grassroots approach to our operations, Durham School Services and its sister brands have earned recognition as a trusted transportation provider among our Customers and the Communities they serve.

The post Ann Arbor Public Schools and Durham School Services Start New School Year with Excellent Service and Partnership Renewal appeared first on School Transportation News.

SEATTLE, Wash. – Zonar, a leader in commercial vehicle fleet health and safety, is advancing its commitment to school transportation with two strategic moves.

Zonar has acquired ez enRoute, a provider of IoT technology and dynamic routing for pupil transportation. The acquisition expands Zonar’s technology portfolio and strengthens its position as the leading provider of smarter, more adaptable solutions for school districts.

Powered by ez enRoute’s independent routing engine, the company is launching Zonar Bus Suite, an integrated, all-in-one routing ecosystem designed to improve safety, efficiency and communication. For districts of any size, Zonar Bus Suite plugs into any transportation system with or without an existing routing provider, making it easy to modernize operations without costly overhauls.

Zonar is trusted with the world’s most precious cargo – our children – and is deeply committed to that responsibility. Every mile, every stop and every innovation are driven by the company’s mission to protect student riders and empower communities. The power of these two fleet technology companies challenges outdated systems and sets a new standard for student transportation: one that keeps families, drivers and schools seamlessly connected.

“Joining Zonar marks an exciting step forward in our mission to transform student transportation,” said Amit Anand, founder, ez enRoute. “Our combined expertise in the school transportation space makes this partnership a perfect fit to evolve our capabilities into a unified, all-in-one platform.”

With Bus Suite, school districts will benefit from advanced technical capabilities, such as:

Independent, Adaptive Routing: ez enRoute’s advanced routing engine, built into Zonar Bus Suite, delivers real-time, turn-by-turn directions without the need for a separate routing provider. Dispatchers can customize routes, make live adjustments and communicate changes directly to drivers and parents through the Zonar platform. Drivers can view assigned stops, students and routes on the Zonar-provided tablet.

Increased Visibility into Student Ridership: By combining Zonar Z Pass® student ridership data, Zonar Bus Suite enables drivers and substitutes to see who has boarded or exited the bus in real time. They also receive alerts if a student boards the wrong bus or exits at the wrong stop, along with special student instructions. This integration helps substitute drivers safeguard student riders.

Cloud-Based Operational Oversight: The Zonar Bus Suite dashboard allows schools to monitor live bus runs, track fleet performance, access student manifest reports and provide parents with accurate ETAs and student location updates in real time.

Integrated Parent Mobile Application: Parents can track school bus locations and receive route notifications and alerts through the Zonar Bus Suite Parent app, ensuring they’re instantly informed of any changes or delays.

“Bringing ez enRoute into the Zonar portfolio enables us to deliver greater value to our customers,” said Charles Kriete, CEO, Zonar. “We’re not just in the school bus business, we’re in the business of access to education, and we take this mission seriously. As districts nationwide face ongoing driver shortages, the launch of Zonar Bus Suite plays a vital role in modernizing operations, keeping families informed and ensuring safe, reliable student transportation.”

Zonar delivers cutting-edge technology to pupil fleets across the Americas. Zonar Bus Suite integrates all aspects of fleet management into one platform, including Zonar’s state-of-charge data for electric buses, predictive maintenance insights, Zonar Coach on-board vehicle cameras, and Zonar Z Pass® for student ridership management to protect everyone on the bus and on the road. The platform gives dispatchers the ability to customize routes and monitor live operations, ensuring full visibility into the entire transportation system.

For the latest updates and announcements, follow Zonar on LinkedIn.

About ez enRoute:
ez enRoute is an IoT/AI company deploying state-of-the-art technology to help make our world smarter and safer. By building an IoT platform through cloud-based services, which includes intelligent routing and logistics software for school transportation, enabling districts to optimize operations and improve service reliability.

About Zonar:
Zonar (https://www.zonarsystems.com/) is the trusted leader in proven fleet management solutions for pupil transportation, small- to mid-sized businesses, enterprise fleets and public sector organizations across the Americas. The Zonar mission is to stand by its customers as a partner to ensure fleets run better, safer and more efficiently. Whatever the fleet size, customers rely on Zonar to help solve real-world problems. Headquartered in Seattle, Zonar has been delivering fleet management solutions to its customers for more than 20 years. Zonar has operations in West Chicago and Cincinnati. Available 24/7, reach Zonar at info@zonarsystems.com or (877) 843-3847.

The post Zonar Acquires ez enRoute and Launches Bus Suite to Modernize Student Transportation appeared first on School Transportation News.

Running a lean, mean, efficient student transportation fleet takes serious coordination and tech. Replace the clutter of multiple, disconnected systems with an all-in-one school bus ecosystem that combines proven advanced routing, added student safety, and leading fleet telematics onto one platform.

Download this complimentary white paper to learn more about simplifying with one smart platform.

• Read about enhancing operational efficiency by streamlining daily workflows.
• Learn about flexible, adaptable and integrated route building, importing and managing.
• Discover why using an all-in-one ecosystem elevates service levels, safety and utilization.
• See what’s in store for drivers, such as integrated mobile tools and smoother navigation.
• Find out how to enhance student safety and parents’ peace of mind with added visibility.

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LISLE, Ill.– IC Bus, LLC (IC Bus), the leader in student transportation solutions, is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2025-2026 IC Bus Scholarship Program. This initiative, created in collaboration with the IC Bus® dealer network, underscores the company’s dedication to fostering a bright future in the communities where its employees live and work.

Each recipient of the program will receive a $5,000 scholarship to support their education expenses for the 2025-2026 school year.

This year, 14 exceptional students were selected to receive scholarships after a competitive application process. Among them, four students were recognized with special honors, exemplifying the values and legacy of the scholarship’s namesakes.

2025-2026 Scholarship Recipients

Harlow Hageness Scholarship:

· Isabelle Forde – Harlow’s Truck and Bus Sales, Bismarck, N.D.

Holly Hoglund Klein Scholarship:

· Livia Takanen – Ascendance Truck Center, Marshfield, Wis.

Richard Wolfington Sr. Scholarship:

· Damon Wright – Wolfington Body Co., Chester Springs, Pa.

Floyd Morris Scholarship:

· Christopher Shoemaker – White’s IC Bus, Greensboro, N.C.

General Scholarship Recipients:

· Ainsley Boyd – Southland Transportation Group, Birmingham, Ala.

· Aiden Herley – Midwest Transit Equipment, Whitestown, Ind.

· Loran Thieneman – Midwest Transit Equipment, Whitestown, Ind.

· Madison Ballard – Waters International Trucks, Columbus, Miss.

· Ava Lazzara – Leonard Bus Sales, Deposit, N.Y.

· Erica Wilson – Leonard Bus Sales, Deposit, N.Y.

· Max Clara – RWC Group, Huntington Park, Calif.

· Alex Rodriguez – Longhorn Bus Sales, Houston, Texas

· Sari Johnson – Rush Truck Centers, Salt Lake City, Utah

· Carter Reineke – Cornhusker International, Lincoln, Neb.

“We are incredibly proud to support these talented students through the IC Bus Scholarship Program,” said Charles Chilton, vice president and general manager of IC Bus. “Education is a powerful tool for shaping the future, and we are honored to play a role in the journeys of these exceptional young individuals. Congratulations to this year’s recipients—you represent the values, ambition, and potential that make our industry and our communities thrive.”

Since its inception, the IC Bus Scholarship Program has supported hundreds of students across the nation. By investing in education, the program has created a lasting impact on the lives of students, families, and communities.

The 2025-2026 scholarship cohort continues this proud tradition, paving the way for a new generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers.

About International:
Based in Lisle, Illinois, International Motors, LLC* creates solutions that deliver greater uptime and productivity to our customers throughout the full operation of our commercial vehicles. We build International® trucks and engines and IC Bus school and commercial buses that are as tough and as smart as the people who drive them. We also develop Fleetrite® aftermarket parts. In everything we do, our vision is to accelerate the impact of sustainable mobility to create the cleaner, safer world we all deserve. As of 2021, we joined Scania AB, MAN Truck & Bus and Volkswagen Truck & Bus in the TRATON GROUP, a global champion of the truck and transport services industry. To learn more, visit www.International.com.

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