Racine Schools approve $115K city bus contract for limited student passes

During a recent Board Work Session of the Racine Unified School District, key discussions centered around student transportation and emergency protocols, highlighting the district's commitment to enhancing student safety and accessibility.

One of the primary topics was the approval of the 2025-2026 transit contract, which will provide 300 bus passes for students at select schools, including Ariel, Horlick, and St. Katz. The contract, valued at $115,000, allows students living within a half-mile of a city bus stop to use public transportation instead of yellow buses. This initiative aims to ease transportation logistics while providing students with greater flexibility to attend school events and work.

Board members expressed satisfaction with the cost-effectiveness of the new contract, noting that the price per pass has decreased from approximately $62 to about $38. This reduction is expected to benefit families while ensuring that students have reliable access to transportation.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the district's emergency superintendent succession plan. The report confirmed that the district is in compliance, with no instances of the superintendent being incapacitated. This assurance is crucial for maintaining leadership continuity in the district.

As the school year approaches, the board is set to vote on these initiatives at the upcoming business meeting, reflecting a proactive approach to addressing community needs and enhancing student services. The discussions underscore the district's ongoing efforts to improve educational access and safety for all students in Racine.