The Normandy Schools Collaborative (NSC) held a groundbreaking ceremony on October 30 to mark the start of its first electric school bus initiative, a project aimed at improving air quality, reducing noise, and lowering operational costs for the district.

District’s First Step Toward Fleet Electrification

In partnership with Highland Electric Fleets, NSC will deploy 15 IC Type C electric school buses and 15 Tellus 30 kW chargers. The new buses are expected to reduce fuel and maintenance costs while providing students with a quieter, smoother ride. The project is scheduled for completion in spring 2026.

“The district is proud to take this important step for our community,” said Dr. Michael Triplett, NSC superintendent. “This project reflects our pride in our students and our commitment to progress that will benefit the community for years to come.”

Funding and Partnerships

The initiative is supported by $1.7 million from the Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean School Bus Program, with funding from both the program’s second and third rounds.

“Districts like Normandy show how electrification can start at the local level,” said Brian Buccella, chief commercial officer at Highland Electric Fleets. “When a project like this comes together, it benefits everyone—from students and drivers to the broader community.”

The effort brings together several local and regional partners. Midwest Transit Equipment is providing the IC buses, KAI Design/Build is leading the electrical construction, and Ameren Missouri is serving as the district’s utility partner.