Contractors see safety as an investment

Executives for some of North America's largest school bus companies discuss how allocating resources toward such efforts as driver training and preventive maintenance can benefit the operation by improving safety and employee morale, which, in turn, enhances profitability.

Florida district buys 98 propane buses

Broward County Public Schools’ move is being called the nation’s largest single order of propane autogas school buses by a school district. Broward officials say that they expect a six-month return on investment for the additional purchase price of the alternative-fuel buses due to fuel cost and maintenance savings.

Parkway launches CNG bus project with $1.5M grant

After securing federal highway funds, the Missouri school district buys 30 compressed natural gas buses and builds a fast-fill fueling station. Here's a look at how Parkway won the grant and what it expects with the new buses including savings in fuel and maintenance costs.

PHOTOS: Florida District's Vehicle Maintenance Parts Department

Blue Bird to hold 3-day technical training

The course will cover maintenance-related subjects for Blue Bird and Micro Bird buses, including electrical, multiplex diagnostics, instrumentation and engine emissions. The training will be held July 28 to 30 in Reno, Nev.

Kansas district extends contract with First Student

The contract with Shawnee Mission (Kan.) School District 512 is a five-year agreement that includes the operation, maintenance and management of a fleet of more than 200 vehicles. The fleet services 50 schools throughout the district.

Trans Tech all-electric bus in service at California district

The SSTe is the first of four electric buses in service at Kings Canyon Unified School District, and officials say the bus is expected to save over $10,000 a year in fuel and maintenance costs.

Thomas Built to hold 2 tech training events

The school bus OEM will conduct its Thomas Built Institute in Greensboro, N.C., in April and in Dallas in September. Company officials say that the training will enhance bus technician skills and complement school bus maintenance programs.

Mutual respect strengthens driver-technician relations

Clear communication is also essential to a solid working relationship between these groups of employees. In-service or safety meetings provide an opportunity for growth in these areas by allowing drivers to learn about their buses and ask the techs questions. Drivers must also be proactive in reporting maintenance concerns.

Collins boosts bus serviceability

The Type A school bus manufacturer has upgraded many of the features on its buses to give technicians improved access to several areas as they perform maintenance. Among the changes: Bigger access holes were added behind the warning lights, and wires were rerouted below instead of in the wall for rear lighting.