By Tim Gordon The responsibility of transporting children safely to and from school is a responsibility that Blue Bird Corporation takes seriously. As one of the most trusted names in school bus manufacturing, we understand that our passengers are the most precious cargo imaginable. That understanding drives our mission to go beyond industry standards, constantly innovating and improving safety features to protect students every step of the way. Built for Safety from the Ground Up At Blue Bird, safety is not an option; it’s a standard. Our buses are designed with a one-piece roof bow system, which acts as the skeletal structure of the vehicle. We were pioneers in introducing the Colorado Rack and Load Test and Kentucky Pole Test as standard safety evaluations. These tests ensure that the structural integrity of the school bus remains intact in the event of a rollover or other severe accidents. While other manufacturers once charged extra for these reinforcements, we have always considered them essential. Another key area of focus is fuel tank protection. Bus collisions, while rare, can pose a fire hazard if fuel systems are compromised. Through rigorous crash testing, we have developed side protection and shielding mechanisms to minimize the risk of fuel-related thermal events. Exceeding Federal Safety Standards Blue Bird has long been committed to surpassing the federal minimum safety requirements. It is not enough to meet the standard; we strive to exceed it in every aspect. Unlike commercial vehicle manufacturers which modify medium-duty chassis to fit a school bus structure, we design our buses from the ground up specifically for student transportation. This approach allows us to engineer features that enhance safety at every level. Enhancing Visibility One of the biggest safety challenges school bus drivers face is visibility. We have designed our conventional bus models to offer superior sightlines. Our buses allow drivers to see a child standing six inches shorter than they could in competing models, a seemingly small difference that can make a world of difference when it comes to preventing accidents. Additionally, Blue Bird buses come equipped with front and rear cameras as standard features. These cameras provide critical visibility when loading and unloading children, the moments when most school bus-related injuries occur. While not active during transit, they give drivers an extra set of eyes when it matters most. Pioneering Driver Safety with Airbags Blue Bird is the first school bus OEM in the industry to implement driver airbags as a standard safety feature. While school buses have long been recognized as one of the safest modes of transportation for students, driver protection has historically been a secondary concern. Recognizing that fatalities in school bus-related crashes often involve the driver, we introduced airbags as a proactive measure to enhance their safety. The Seat Belt Debate and NextGen Seating For years, industry discussions have focused on the necessity of seat belts in school buses. While compartmentalization—the design concept of padded, closely spaced seats—has been the traditional standard, Blue Bird has taken it a step further by integrating seat belts into its NextGen seating. Crash tests reveal that while compartmentalization is effective, it assumes students remain properly seated at all times. Realistically, children may shift, lean, or turn in their seats. Our seat belt-equipped designs ensure that students remain secured, reducing the risk of injury during a collision. To make seat belts more accessible, Blue Bird has worked to offset costs, ensuring that customers who choose IMMI-manufactured seats do not pay extra for seat belts. It’s a decision we stand by because safety should never be a premium feature—it should be standard. Improving Safety at Bus Stops Many school bus-related accidents occur outside the vehicle, particularly during loading and unloading. To address this, Blue Bird has introduced high-intensity LED lighting, ensuring that buses are visible in low-light conditions, such as early morning and late afternoon routes. Additionally, lighted stop arms and school bus signs enhance visibility, reinforcing traffic laws that protect children as they enter and exit the bus. Despite these efforts, some drivers still claim they “didn’t see the bus.” Our goal is to make school buses impossible to miss. With strobe lights and enhanced illumination, we are taking every step to ensure that students are visible and protected at all times. Electronic Stability Control and Collision Mitigation Technology continues to play a crucial role in school bus safety. Blue Bird was the first to introduce Electronic Stability Control (ESC) in our buses. Our Mobileye system, a passive collision avoidance system, provides real-time alerts to drivers, increasing their awareness of potential hazards. Unlike active systems that may take control of the vehicle, our approach allows drivers to remain in full control while benefiting from enhanced situational awareness. Committed to a Safer Future At Blue Bird, safety is not just a feature; it’s our philosophy. We don’t believe in simply meeting federal standards; we aim to exceed them at every turn. Whether through advanced structural integrity, improved visibility, driver protection, or the latest in technology, our mission remains the same: to provide the safest school buses on the road. Tim Gordon is senior vice president of Blue Bird’s Sales and Marketing. Visit www.blue-bird.com for more information.

  By Jason Yan As the transportation industry evolves, so too must the safety measures that protect our children. At RIDE, we are leveraging our expertise in electric vehicle technology and advanced engineering to create the safest school buses we can. From our pioneering use of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery technology to our rigorously tested structural designs, every aspect of our buses is built with safety at the forefront. A Legacy of Safety and Innovation RIDE has been at the forefront of battery technology and EV manufacturing in the U.S. since 2013. Our deep understanding of battery chemistry and engineering has allowed us to develop a school bus that is not only energy-efficient but also exceptionally safe. The foundation of our safety commitment begins with the selection of LFP battery technology, which is crush-proof, puncture-proof, and highly resistant to fire, thus ensuring that our buses provide the safest possible ride for students. Beyond the battery, we have designed our buses from the ground up with safety in mind. We purpose-build our buses as electric vehicles, allowing us to integrate safety innovations at every level. Three Layers of Safety We view safety as a multi-layered approach, encompassing structural integrity, battery safety, and onboard security features. Structural Safety: Our buses undergo some of the most rigorous testing in the industry, including the Colorado rack test, Kentucky pole test, and side intrusion tests. These evaluations ensure that our bus frames, chassis, and bodies can withstand extreme impacts while protecting passengers. By utilizing a fully steel structure, our buses provide maximum durability and crash protection, reinforcing the safety of students and drivers alike. Battery Safety: Battery safety is paramount in electric school bus design. The LFP battery technology we use is inherently safer than other battery chemistries because it is more stable under stress. In the event of an accident, LFP batteries are less likely to overheat or catch fire compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries, making them the safest choice for school transportation. Onboard Safety Features: In addition to our robust structural and battery safety measures, we collaborate with leading technology partners to integrate advanced security systems within our buses. Features such as electronic monitoring systems, emergency alert capabilities, and driver assistance tools provide an extra layer of protection for both passengers and operators. Addressing Safety Concerns About Electric Buses One of the most common questions we hear is, “Are electric school buses as safe as traditional diesel buses?” The answer is a resounding yes. In fact, in many ways, they are even safer. While traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) buses have been around for over a century, electric buses are built with modern safety advancements in mind. The electric drivetrain eliminates many of the hazards associated with diesel-powered vehicles, such as engine fires and fuel spills. Additionally, electric buses offer enhanced control and stability through their design, making them more responsive and easier to operate in various driving conditions. Furthermore, because electric buses rely on electronic signaling for internal communications, they can be more easily integrated with smart safety features such as route planning, early warning systems, and driver assistance technologies. As the transportation industry shifts toward sustainable solutions, it is imperative that safety remains a top priority. We are committed to continuous improvement, ensuring that our school buses not only meet but exceed the highest safety standards. Our dedication to advanced battery technology, robust structural engineering, and cutting-edge safety features ensures that we provide the safest, most reliable school buses on the road today. As we look ahead, our focus will remain on enhancing safety through innovation. With each new advancement, we move closer to our goal of making school transportation safer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly. Jason Yan serves as Vice President of Sales, West Region & National Accounts, for RIDE. Visit www.ride.co for more information.

Presented by HopSkipDrive School districts face a complex challenge in providing transportation for students with special needs. It’s not just about getting these students to and from school — it’s also about ensuring their safety, well-being, and readiness to learn. The right transportation partner can be a game-changer, offering solutions that are effective and compassionate. Beyond the vital aspects of safety and compassion, a strategic transportation vendor can also unlock significant cost savings by helping districts optimize routes and minimize inefficiencies. But how do you find the right partner? The landscape of special needs transportation is evolving, with increasing emphasis on individualization, accessibility, and inclusion. Districts need a partner that demonstrates an understanding of these priorities, enables open communication about individual rider needs and preferences, and can deliver personalized services that meet the diverse needs of all students with disabilities. Here, we’re sharing some key considerations school districts should keep in mind when searching for a special needs transportation partner they can rely on. Accessibility and Inclusion: Beyond the Basics Accessibility in special needs transportation goes beyond wheelchair ramps. It’s about creating an inclusive transportation experience so that every student feels valued and supported. This means considering a range of needs, including sensory sensitivities, mobility challenges, and communication differences. Transportation providers should demonstrate a commitment to accessibility in all aspects of their service, from different types of vehicles; to knowledgeable and empathetic employees; to safety-driven processes and technology that support a consistent, reliable experience for students with special needs. Questions to ask potential partners: • How do you ensure your vehicles and services accommodate students with diverse needs? • Can you provide examples of how you’ve adapted your services to meet individual student requirements? • What training do you provide on disability awareness and inclusive practices? Flexibility and Customization: Meeting Unique Needs Every student with special needs is unique, and their transportation needs will vary. School districts need a partner that can offer flexible and customized solutions. This might include specialized routing, adapted vehicles, or individualized support plans. Questions to assess flexibility: • Can your services accommodate a need for the next day and changes in ride schedules? • Do you have tools or processes in place to help ensure individual student needs, sensitivities, and preferences are met? • Do you offer a range of transportation options, such as individual rides or wheelchair-accessible vehicles? The Human Element: Caring for and Working with Children Special needs transportation is fundamentally a human service. The individuals who interact with students play a crucial role in their experience. Drivers and aides should possess a combination of professional expertise, caregiving experience, and genuine compassion. Transportation providers should have dedicated processes in place to ensure drivers and aides are prepared to handle a variety of situations with patience, empathy, and understanding. Evaluating potential partners: • What requirements do you have for drivers who work with students with special needs? • What kind of resources and support do you provide to them? • Do you provide aides, and can you accommodate school-provided aides? Technology and Communication: Enhancing Safety and Reliability Technology is a critical tool for improving safety, efficiency, and communication in special needs transportation. Features like real-time ride tracking, route optimization, and electronic communication and alerts provide greater transparency — and peace of mind — for both school districts and parents. Technology considerations: •Do you offer real-time tracking and communication tools for parents and school staff? • How do you use technology to ensure route efficiency and on-time performance? • What data security measures do you have in place to protect student information? Do you have verified security credentials, like a SOC 2 Type II attestation? Collaboration and Partnership: Working Together for Success Effective special needs transportation requires a strong partnership between the school district and the transportation provider. This means open communication, shared problem-solving, and a proven commitment to continuous improvement. The best partners are those who see themselves as an extension of the school district, and can demonstrate a track record of working collaboratively to support student success. Evaluating partnership potential: • How do you ensure open communication and collaboration with school districts? • What is your process for addressing concerns or resolving issues? • How do you measure and report on the effectiveness of your services? By carefully considering all of the factors outlined above, school districts can navigate the complexities of special needs transportation and find a partner that truly prioritizes the needs of their students. Learn more about how HopSkipDrive is partnering with schools all over the country to meet the diverse transportation needs of students with special needs, including offerings like wheelchair-accessible vehicles, Rider Assistants, a customized IEP rider experience, and a six-hour turnaround time for ride scheduling.

Presented By Zūm Services, Inc. In student transportation, consistency is key: Ensuring all children have safe, reliable, efficient, and comfortable rides to and from school sets them up for a positive day in the classroom – and gives their parents peace of mind. This is particularly true when transporting students with disabilities. “For all of these kids, routine is so important,” says Jenny Moore, a mother of two in San Francisco. Moore’s fifth-grade son, who has special needs, relies on the school bus to get to school each day. Along with a reliable and friendly driver, Moore says using a technology platform to track the bus has been a game-changer for her family. “I can show him, ‘Look, this is where (bus driver) Hilda is. Consistency truly sets him up for success for the school day,” she says. “It has been a wonderful experience.” Delivering best-in-class student transportation requires well-trained and caring drivers; safe, high-quality school buses and equipment; and efficient, effective communication and protocols. But, as families, drivers, and schools will attest, accurate data and an integrated technology platform are also pivotal in ensuring today’s students, especially those with differing abilities, receive top-notch student transportation. ‘A student-centric, design-thinking approach’ The optimal technology platform addresses everyone’s needs and is developed with deep, firsthand experience in student transportation operations and management. Ultimately, the platform makes everyone’s day-to-day job easier and more efficient and improves safety, communication, and transparency. Effective transportation for ALL students requires a student-centric and design-thinking approach that keeps each stakeholder’s needs in mind:  • Students need and deserve a safe, predictable, and comfortable ride to and from school and other activities to support their academic, personal, and social-emotional growth and well-being. • Parents and guardians need to stay informed about their child’s ride, along with accurate ETAs and notifications when the school bus is approaching and when their child has been safely picked up or dropped off. • Drivers need specific instructions to meet the unique needs of each student, so that even a substitute driver is able to greet each child by name and ensure safe transport. • School and district administrators need access to real-time information for all routes arriving to and departing their campus. They also need tools that are easy to use, role-based, and make it simple to manage, monitor, and optimize transportation. “This technology allows us to be more responsive and efficient than ever before,” says James Lash, Executive Director of Transportation and Fleet Management Services for Virginia Beach City Public Schools. “With real-time tracking and dynamic routing, we are better equipped to ensure safe and on-time rides for our students, even when unexpected challenges arise.” A modern era of student transportation Technology that provides access to accurate, real-time information and allows for seamless communication is critical. It allows all students, in particular those with special transportation requirements, to know what to expect. It gives drivers access to critical information to ensure safe care, and allows parents and school/district administrators to view ride details in real time. Tech-enabled student transportation also eliminates a flood of phone calls from parents to schools, schools to the district office, and the district office to transportation dispatch, followed by radio communication between dispatch and drivers – all trying to determine the location of a bus or student. “Recently I spoke with a parent who told me that, when her school district adopted a technology platform, it changed her family’s lives overnight,” recalls Vivek Garg, COO at Zum. “She’d have her son ready to go, and then the bus wouldn’t arrive. They didn’t know where it was, or if it was coming at all,” Garg adds. “Her son would become so upset that it was nearly impossible to calm him back down. On top of that, she had no visibility into when the bus got to school safely.” With robust, real-time data and a turnkey solution that improves safety, communication, and efficiency from start to finish, the school bus experience becomes safer, more predictable, and more enjoyable. Data and feedback – including allowing parents to rate every ride – can be used to make quick, iterative decisions that continuously improve performance and service quality. “Now with Zum’s technology, the mother told me that school days are now much happier and more manageable for her son – and for her,” Garg says. Because the school bus is an extension of the classroom, deploying an integrated technology platform has multiple benefits in student transportation. Above all, it provides consistency, communication and critical information, to transporters and parents; it allows all children, those with disabilities and their non-disabled peers, to arrive at their destinations safely, on time and ready to learn.