Report: 98% of School Districts Want Modern Transportation
July 31, 2025 | School Bus Fleet
News/Media Release Staff
Ninety-eight percent of school districts across the United States are taking steps to modernize student transportation, according to EverDriven’s newly released Future of Modern Student Transportation and Safety Report. The study highlights how districts are addressing safety, equity, and chronic absenteeism through technology and flexible service models.
“When student transportation is frictionless, education becomes more equitable,” said Mitch Bowling, CEO of EverDriven. “Districts across the country are modernizing student transportation to be student-centered, meeting the diverse needs of learners with technology, flexibility, and safety at the forefront. Every child deserves not just a ride to school, but a reliable, dignified path to opportunity.”
Districts reported persistent challenges tied to absenteeism and equity, with gaps particularly noted in non-regulated states. Operational pressures are also contributing to the push for modernization, including:
Additional concerns include student safety (20%), scheduling across diverse student groups (20%), adapting to population shifts (19%), and improving family communication (19%).
Districts are implementing a range of technology-enabled strategies to improve safety and efficiency. Current and planned initiatives include:
Planned investments over the next five years include collision avoidance systems (36%), safety training programs (35%), and AI-powered logistics (34%).
“We’re witnessing a transformation in student transportation,” Bowling said. “Districts are reimagining what it means to serve every student with dignity, reliability, and safety. From AI-powered routing to inclusive mobility options, this report shows how schools are turning innovation into impact.”
This report was developed in partnership with Hanover Research and is based on feedback from more than 500 U.S.-based district leaders, including superintendents, chief business officers, and transportation directors.
The full report is available at EverDriven’s website.
Since 2015, EverDriven has transported more than 111,000 students, including over 47,000 experiencing homelessness and more than 32,000 with disabilities, maintaining a reported 99.99% safety record.
Advocating for Safe, Reliable, and Accessible Alternative Student Transportation.