What issues will dominate water cooler talk — and occupy transportation director’s minds — heading into 2025?

SBF conducted a reader survey and social media poll, asking one simple but pressing question to find out. 

Here’s what respondents had to say:

These results aren’t too far off from what SBFX attendees said about their top concern, with EVs and hiring drivers topping both lists. 

Additional Context

Not surprisingly, recruiting and retaining school bus drivers remains the top concern for 2025. While the driver shortage is loosening its grip, 51% of transportation directors report a moderate to severe shortage (down from 63% last year).

HopSkipDrive reported that 91% of schools said they have significant operational challenges this year, and fewer students are riding the bus than ever. Some districts have been able to offer increased pay and incentives to new drivers, but for those with budget constraints, there’s not much relief in sight. 

To address this all-too-common challenge, we recently gathered up tips to recruit Gen Z and Millennial school bus drivers. 

The push toward electrification is a close second, reflecting the increased focus on sustainability mandates and the availability of federal funding for electric school buses. But will federal funding last? Will charging infrastructure continue to catch up if mandates ease? There are many unknowns yet to be discovered.

In terms of safety, we all know that illegal stop-arm passings has become a significant issue, with a recent NASDPTS survey showing a 4% rise and too many fatal accidents as a result. Add to that speeding from other motorists, distracted driving, concerns around drug testing changes, and the cost of technology upgrades, and it’s no wonder there’s hesitation.

Just as many answered “everything,” representing the never-ending list of topics that keep school bus professionals up at night. 

What do you think; are you surprised by the results, or do they match your own experience? What issues are you tracking most closely heading into 2025? Let us know in the comments — your insights could help shape the conversation as we tackle these challenges together.