During the Wakefield School Committee meeting held on May 27, 2025, discussions centered on the potential introduction of electric school buses to the district, highlighting a significant step towards sustainability in local education. The committee was approached by the Environmental Sustainability Committee (ESC) regarding the electrification of school transportation, which aligns with broader environmental goals.

Dr. Lyons, a key figure in the discussions, along with members of the Wakefield Municipal Gas Lightboard, met with Highland Fleets, a company specializing in leasing electric buses. The committee is considering applying for a state grant that could subsidize the costs associated with acquiring these electric buses. The urgency of the grant application process was emphasized, as the deadline is approaching quickly.

The committee is currently gathering data on existing bus contracts and operational costs to assess the feasibility of transitioning to electric buses. The primary concern is ensuring that any potential shift would not negatively impact the district's budget. The discussions indicated a cautious yet optimistic approach to exploring this initiative, with a focus on maintaining financial stability while pursuing environmentally friendly options.

In addition to the electric bus proposal, the meeting included routine approvals, such as payroll warrants, which were unanimously passed by the committee. The overall tone of the meeting reflected a commitment to both fiscal responsibility and environmental sustainability, signaling a proactive stance on modernizing school transportation in Wakefield. As the committee moves forward, the outcomes of the grant application and further evaluations will be crucial in determining the future of electric buses in the district.