What happens when a traditional school bus isn’t the best fit for a student’s needs? In this episode of The Route, SBF editor Amanda Huggett sits down with EverDriven CEO Mitch Bowling to discuss the growing role of alternative student transportation.
From serving students with disabilities and housing challenges to tackling driver shortages and out-of-district trips, Bowling explains how smaller vehicles and tech-enabled solutions are complementing — not replacing — the yellow bus. He also shares insights on safety standards, new legislation like California’s SB 88, and how districts can pilot alternative options with confidence.
Key topics discussed:
- Why Alternative Transportation
- Growth & Demand
- Safety Standards & Regulations
- Challenges in Alternative Transportation
- Technology & Communication
- Turning Skepticism Into Trust
This episode is sponsored by IC Bus.
Links to reference:
👉 Rethinking the Route: A Deep Dive into Alternative Transportation for School Districts
👉 EverDriven Reports 18% Growth, Increased Demand for Alternative Transportation
👉 Report: 98% of School Districts Want Modern Transportation
👉 2025 Trailblazer: Morgan Judge of EverDriven
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About The Route
The Route is a monthly video and podcast series hosted by School Bus Fleet and sponsored by IC Bus, proudly offering vehicles and solutions that are ahead of their class.
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