Prince George's County Schools enhance transportation system with hub stops and app improvements

Prince George's County Public Schools is taking significant steps to enhance its transportation system, addressing long-standing issues that have affected students and families. During the Board of Education Operations, Budget, and Fiscal Affairs Committee Meeting on March 19, 2025, officials outlined a multi-year improvement plan that began with a third-party audit last year, which provided 12 recommendations for better service.

Director of Transportation Kiva Baldwin presented two key initiatives aimed at improving efficiency and reducing long commute times for students, particularly those in specialty programs. The first initiative involves establishing hub stops in collaboration with the Prince George's County Parks and Recreation Department. This strategy aims to centralize pickup locations, thereby optimizing bus routes and enhancing driver utilization. Baldwin noted that many students currently face long travel times, impacting their readiness to learn. By implementing hub stops, the district hopes to improve accessibility for parents and reduce ride times.

The second initiative focuses on revamping the parent app used for tracking bus locations. Baldwin acknowledged the frustrations parents have experienced with the current app, which has struggled with accuracy and real-time updates. The district plans to engage families through surveys to gather input on their needs, ensuring that the new app will be more reliable and user-friendly.

Board members expressed appreciation for these efforts, emphasizing the importance of effective communication and reliable transportation for students. As the district moves forward with these initiatives, it aims to enhance overall satisfaction among families and improve the operational efficiency of its transportation services. The anticipated outcomes include reduced complaints and confusion related to transportation, ultimately fostering a better environment for student learning.