School district contracts Geotab for GPS and cameras in student transportation vans

The Pennsylvania Finance Committee has approved a significant upgrade to student transportation safety with the awarding of a contract for GPS and camera systems in 23 district-owned vans. This decision, made during the April 10, 2025, meeting, aims to enhance the security of students and drivers while providing real-time tracking capabilities.

The contract was awarded to Geotab, which offered the lowest bid at $265 per van for hardware in the first year, along with an annual service fee of $39.50 per van. This two-year agreement is expected to improve safety measures, as the vans will now be equipped with internal and external cameras, allowing for comprehensive monitoring of both the driving environment and the passengers.

The initiative aligns with the district's recent transition to a fully propane-powered fleet, which has resulted in increased federal funding for alternative fuel use. This year, the district received approximately $160,000 in federal funds, which will cover the costs associated with the new GPS and camera systems, estimated at around $10,557 annually.

In addition to the transportation upgrades, the committee also discussed the implementation of a new cafeteria point of sale system, selecting Heartland Mosaic as the preferred vendor after soliciting bids from three companies. This system is expected to streamline cafeteria operations and improve service for students.

These advancements reflect the district's commitment to enhancing student safety and operational efficiency, with further updates anticipated as the projects progress.