The question of how to replace the traditional yellow bus has become an urgent problem for some, and a spark for innovation.

Summary

School districts across the U.S. are reducing bus services due to driver shortages and shifting transportation responsibilities to families, disproportionately affecting low-income households.

In Chicago, where only 17,000 of 325,000 students are eligible for buses, parents are turning to alternatives like ride-hailing apps.

Startups such as Piggyback Network and HopSkipDrive provide school transportation by connecting parents or contracting directly with districts, offering safety measures like real-time tracking and driver vetting.

Critics warn these solutions don’t fully address systemic inequities, as many families still struggle to afford or access reliable school transportation.

  • Flying Squid@lemmy.world
    8·
    6 days ago

    I’ve heard of a lot of people who drive a bus for the health insurance. Maybe their partner has a decent job that can cover most expenses, but no decent health plan. It’s an alternative for some. It shouldn’t be, but that’s another issue.