School District plans to purchase two new 90 passenger buses amid rising costs

The Jefferson County Schools Board meeting held on April 5, 2025, addressed several key issues regarding the district's transportation budget and future needs.

The meeting began with a discussion on the rising costs of school buses. A representative noted that since 2019, the price of used buses has significantly increased from approximately $85,000 to over $160,000 for new models, marking a 40% rise in costs over four years. This trend has prompted the district to plan for the purchase of two new 90-passenger buses in the upcoming year.

Additionally, the board discussed the inclusion of 12 bus monitor positions in the budget, which will add $135,000 to transportation costs. This decision reflects the district's commitment to ensuring student safety during transit.

The meeting also touched on potential budget cuts, with some items identified for reduction. However, specific details regarding these cuts were not elaborated upon.

In summary, the board's discussions highlighted the challenges of rising transportation costs and the district's proactive measures to address these issues while maintaining safety standards for students. Further steps will be taken to finalize the budget and implement the necessary changes in the coming year.