As we wrap up another year, we’ve got another year of statistics to present in the pages of School Bus Fleet's annual 2026 Fact Book. 

Evaluating school bus sales trends over the past 10 years, you’ll see that we’re still not yet recovered to pre-pandemic levels. Truthfully, we may not see 2019 numbers again for a while, but we are trending right on track with 2015. And in this new, new normal, that feels pretty darn good. 

After all, the industry is still working through a host of challenges — some that we saw coming and some new ones we didn’t. The supply chain and production delays have (mostly) worked themselves out. Then, with a new federal administration, we suddenly were navigating an entirely new (again) landscape. One with constantly changing tariffs, legislation and regulation, decreased focus on climate change targets and emissions requirements (and funding), and multiple agencies and rules in flux. 

As I write this, I just returned from Washington, D.C., for the NASDPTS annual conference with state directors and federal agency partners. The event took place just mere days after the government shutdown was resolved. It was just in time to hear from federal officials that the EPA’s Clean School Bus Program is still in a holding pattern, the Clean-Heavy Duty Vehicles grant will not actually continue, and the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) will soon have a “new funding opportunity.” 

Meanwhile, seat belts, alternative transportation, safety, and security, dominated discussions throughout the event. Some good news: FMCSA reported an 8% decline in roadway fatalities over the past year, though, of course, we always want to aim for zero. 

At NAPT’s annual conference and trade show just prior, we also saw how hungry district transportation teams are for professional development, tips on culture, team leadership, and community. Some conference rooms were literally overflowing! A common theme was how technology is evolving to help us do more with less. Amid tight budgets, AI tools step in to act as assistants, co-pilots, and data analysts to find efficiencies. 

Speaking of change, you may also notice more change in the pages and presence of School Bus Fleet in print. Our 2026 Fact Book has some departures from the past few editions. Each change is intentional, though — ones we felt were needed to present the types of information that the modern transportation admin needs to succeed. You’ll still find our annual roundup of which stories trended in 2025, our state-by-state transportation statistics, bus sales report, and OEM roundup. 

Research, data collection, and analysis are one of the things we consider our bread and butter, and we want you to be able to rely on us for an accurate picture of where the industry is now and is going. That’s why you’ll find more data added to the pages of the book this year. We compiled highlights from surveys throughout the year and gathered additional analysis to share what’s going well and what’s not. Some other sections are streamlined, and new ones added to help you make decisions for your fleet. 

That’s a theme we’re carrying into 2026. Going forward, you’ll see carefully crafted and curated content to tell the stories of the people driving our industry forward and guidance on new innovations and news to keep you in the know. 

When I look back at 2025, sure, I see some turbulence, but I also see resilience and a drive to do more, to do better, and to do right by those who count on us.

It’s been a whirlwind year. I immersed myself in the industry to learn what motivates you, what keeps you up at night, and where you need help. After 11 trips in eight states over 12 months, I’m a little tired, but just as grateful for every conversation and connection along the way.

No matter how many more changes come along, or new trends we must learn to navigate, we’re a resilient bunch. I’m constantly inspired by how many in student transportation have learned to roll with the punches. With heart, determination, and the support of each other, you handle anything that comes across your path. 

I’m so excited to see what lies in the road ahead in 2026. No matter what, I know we’ll witness continued innovation, new leaders emerge, and everyday heroes saving lives and bringing smiles to the faces of our nation’s students every day. 

We’d love to hear what you think about the changes to this year’s Fact Book (or anything else)! Tell us what you like and what else you want to see here next year. Email feedback to amanda.huggett@bobit.com.