Glades County (Florida) School District is converting more than half its school bus fleet to electric vehicles by deploying 13 Type C Blue Bird buses and two charging depots.

Local school bus dealer Florida Transportation Systems is providing the buses, which are expected to improve air quality while providing reliable electric transportation to students at Moore Haven Elementary, West Glades School, and Moore Haven Middle-High School. It's also going to add air conditioning, currently available only on three buses in the district fleet.

"The Glades County School District understands the significance of prioritizing student well-being and ensuring they have access to optimal conditions during their commute," said Superintendent Dr. Alice E. Barfield. "The introduction of these electric buses reinforces our commitment to providing safe and comfortable transportation services to the community we proudly serve."

The procurement of these new buses aligns with the district's overarching vision of embracing innovative solutions and embracing sustainability practices. By transitioning to electric buses, the district aims to reduce its carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment for future generations. 

The district has partnered with Highland Electric Fleets to help transition the fleet from diesel to electric, handling all of the planning, implementation, management, and training needed for full fleet electrification.

"We are eager to partner with Glades County School District as they have shown their dedication to going electric with more than half of their school bus fleet," said Duncan McIntyre, CEO and founder of Highland Electric Fleets. "This 13-bus project will offer the opportunity for the district to one day transition its full fleet to electric and we hope to support them in whatever way we can."