Back-to-school season is heating up, but Broken Arrow Public Schools students will be riding cooler than ever on five new propane buses.

The Oklahoma district reports that the new fleet additions have air conditioning to keep students cooler in the tail end of summer and the fall months, a feature the district hopes to make standard in its 200-bus fleet.

The buses, which were integrated this past January, also have upgraded safety features and more tech than the yellow buses from years ago, such as GPS tracking, cameras, diagnostics, and routing tablets.

“The onboard technology has performed well in real-world use, helping us improve route efficiency, maintenance response, and student safety,” said Fleet Transportation Manager James Estep.

According to Tulsa-based News on 6, the buses cost approximately $150,000, paid for with help from a federal grant to replace older diesel models.

“Since January, the addition of our new propane units has positively impacted daily operations,” Estep said. “We’ve seen improved fuel efficiency, lower maintenance needs, and smoother cold-weather starts, which helps keep our routes on schedule.”

Positive Feedback Fuels Propane Fleet Expansion

Feedback from both staff and parents has been very encouraging. Parents appreciate the cleaner emissions and quieter ride, while drivers like the improved drivability and added safety features.

“Looking ahead, we plan to continue expanding our propane fleet as infrastructure and funding allow,” Estep said.

“It’s been a win all around. Drivers love the quieter ride, mechanics are seeing reduced maintenance needs, and students are enjoying the comfort,” said Rosalyn Vann-Jackson, chief support services officer at Broken Arrow Public Schools. “This move reflects our commitment to sustainability, cost savings, and caring for our people and community. Diversifying our fleet is just one more way we’re investing in the future.

The district says it will add air conditioning to more buses, according to News on 6, with plans for 15 more buses to receive AC before the end of the fall semester.