SAN FRANCISCO and LISLE, Ill. — National Express announced on Friday that it has invested in the student ridesharing and childcare service app Kango.

The school transportation company led a $3.6 million Series A funding round to help Kango expand its operations in providing more students and their families with transportation and childcare services, according to a news release from Kango.

Additionally, as part of the funding agreement, David A. Duke, CEO Emeritus of National Express, will be joining Kango’s board.

“Now more than ever, the technology and services that Kango provides will fill a growing need by catering to busy families in both the childcare and transportation spaces,” said Judith Crawford, CEO of National Express Transit and Shuttle. “We are confident in the business model in which Kango operates and feel that their focus on safety and reliability sets them apart from any other company that is currently operating within this space. Furthermore, our investment in Kango will allow their management team to continue to seize upon current growth opportunities by expanding in other metropolitan cities throughout the United States.”

Through its app-based platform, Kango offers on-demand, same-day rides for students that can be booked directly by their families or schools, according to the company. In addition, parents have the option to request standalone childcare services.

The company also noted that all of its drivers and childcare providers are required to go through a rigorous screening and in-person interview process that includes background checks, DMV record checks, employer reference checks, vehicle inspections, fingerprinting, and TrustLine caregiver certification.

“We are proud to announce this investment from National Express, the leading school transportation corporation,” said Sara Schaer, co-founder and CEO of Kango. “As a partner, National Express brings vast scale and knowledge of the school, transit, and shuttle transportation industry, while also sharing our commitment to safety and a family-first mission and vision.”

Kango is currently available in the San Francisco Bay Area and the Greater Los Angeles metropolitan area.