First Student is rolling out FirstAlt, a new service meant to meet increasing demand from school districts for alternative transportation for students with special needs, those experiencing homelessness, and those who live out-of-district.

This new K-12 transportation solution is expected to be inclusive of all student needs and vehicle types and, as described in a news release, "delivers an efficient way for districts to manage all of their transportation needs with one provider.

FirstAlt partners with qualified local transportation companies using a fleet of smaller capacity vehicles with drivers that are fully vetted with background and motor vehicle checks. They're also required to meet state, school district, and corporate standards. Contracted drivers receive First Student's special-needs training, with a focus on student behavior.

“First Student is changing school transportation for students with unique transportation needs,” said John Kenning, CEO and president of First Student. “FirstAlt offers a complete solution for school districts to ensure that all students have access to safe and reliable transportation."

“FirstAlt is powered by First Student’s industry-leading experience in maintenance, safety, and operational discipline to serve students with special transportation needs,” said Gregg Prettyman, First Student's vice president of FirstAlt. “I’m proud that we are delivering a solution that answers the needs of our students and district partners."

FirstAlt was developed by the most experienced leadership team in alternative student transportation industry, bringing more than 50 years of combined experience in the field. FirstAlt is launching this month across the United States.