First Student has deployed 14 IC Bus electric school buses in partnership with Tacoma Public Schools in Washington state. 

The contractor currently provides around 5,000 students with daily school bus transportation for the district. The electric school buses will complement the school district's existing fleet and demonstrate the shared commitment to clean and safe transportation solutions.

Three buses were funded through the Washington State Department of Ecology, with the other 11 funded through the second round of the EPA's Clean School Bus Program. 

"Tacoma Public Schools is committed to making environmentally responsible decisions that benefit both our students and the community," said Josh Garcia, superintendent. "Partnering with First Student allows us to enhance our transportation services while reducing our carbon footprint, creating a more sustainable, safe, and efficient future for our students and the environment. This initiative aligns with our strategic goals by improving health and safety through cleaner air, enhancing operational efficiency with modernized transportation, and strengthening partnerships that support student success. Investing in sustainable solutions ensures a safe learning environment that promotes academic achievement and well-being for all students."

"Our ongoing partnership with Tacoma Public Schools reflects our commitment to building a cleaner, healthier future for the communities we serve," said Kevin Matthews, head of electrification at First Student. "As the industry leader with the most electric buses deployed in North America, we are proud to drive over 5 million students daily and have already logged nearly 6 million electric miles. At First Student, one of our core values is to care for students. Electric buses help us meet that goal by providing a smoother, quieter ride that helps students start their day focused and ready to learn."

A celebratory event was held on March 26 with officials from the district, Clean Air Agency, Tacoma Public Utilities Board, students, and representatives from Pierce County Planning and Public Works, Pierce Transit, Tacoma Education Dream Fund, and the Washington State Department of Ecology and Air Quality Program. Following the event, community members had the chance to ride in an electric school bus.