Smaller Vehicles Gain Ground in School Transportation

(From Stateline) School bus driver shortages, worsened by the pandemic and funding cuts, have led districts to explore alternative student transportation. Ride-hailing services, small vans and private drivers are increasingly used, sometimes contracted by schools or paid for by parents. New laws in states like Idaho, Louisiana, Virginia and New Jersey now allow districts to use smaller vehicles or hire private drivers. A recent survey found 80% of school administrators report driver shortages, with rising demand and shrinking budgets. However, critics warn these changes may compromise safety, as buses are built to protect children better than cars.

More from Stateline