Beatrice Board approves First Student contract and new pay-to-ride bus fees amid rising transportation costs

The Beatrice Public Schools Board of Education voted to approve a contract and addendum with First Student and to adopt a new pay-to-ride fee schedule for the 2025–26 school year after an extended discussion on costs and options.

Dr. Nielsen, superintendent, told the board that the district is in the final year of its contract with Midstates (now First Student) and that rising costs require rethinking how the district funds its transportation service. “State statute section 79‑6,11 states public schools are required to provide transportation or reimburse parents for transportation costs for students who live 4 miles or more from school,” Dr. Nielsen said during the discussion, noting that the district has voluntarily provided more extensive in-town service.

The administration presented financial details showing the prior contract cost for the district’s 13 regular routes at about $63,000 per month ($630,000 annually). The proposed five-year First Student contract would start at…