The Beaverton School District held a School Board Business Meeting on February 20, 2024, focusing on transportation updates and environmental initiatives. The meeting highlighted several key developments in the district's transportation services, particularly regarding the introduction of new bus routes and the expansion of electric vehicle (EV) usage.

The meeting began with an announcement that starting in the fall, students will be able to be picked up at designated bus stops and taken directly to their schools. This change is expected to enhance accessibility for middle and elementary school students, allowing them to spend more time on field trips due to adjusted bus schedules. Additionally, the district is exploring daycare shuttle services between elementary schools and regional sites to further support students after school.

A significant topic of discussion was the district's recent application for a $20 million grant from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to acquire 50 new school buses, with a third of these designated for special needs transportation. The district is optimistic about the grant's approval and is currently finalizing the necessary paperwork. The new buses will be equipped with the latest technology and will primarily serve Title 1 elementary schools, ensuring that resources are directed to the most impacted areas.

The district also reported receiving multiple grants to support its transition to electric buses. This includes a $272,000 award from Portland General Electric and $500,000 from the state Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) for the purchase of electric buses and chargers. The district is actively pursuing additional rebates and grants, which could total around $3 million, to further offset costs.

In terms of fleet management, the district is implementing a strategy to retire older buses responsibly. Buses that are no longer in service are crushed and recycled, with the district receiving some revenue from the metal. The discussion also touched on the lifespan of electric buses, which is projected to be around 10 years, with potential for extended use through battery replacements.

The meeting concluded with a focus on the district's Career and Technical Education (CTE) internship program, which has successfully integrated students into the transportation department. The program aims to expand, providing more opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience with electric vehicles.

Overall, the Beaverton School District is making significant strides in enhancing its transportation services while prioritizing environmental sustainability. The board expressed gratitude for the efforts made in transitioning to electric buses and improving student access to transportation. The district plans to continue its initiatives and explore further opportunities for growth and improvement in the coming years.