School committee approves three‑year bus contract, reinstates rider fees and adopts handbook

The Stoughton School Committee on March 11 approved a three‑year transportation contract with First Student, reinstated family bus fees and adopted an updated transportation handbook after the district said only one company submitted a bid.

The administration reported nine companies requested bid documents but First Student was the only responsive bidder. The total three‑year contract amount presented to the committee was $4,361,801.37, which the superintendent described as roughly a 14% increase over three years and approximately $34,000 more than the district budgeted for FY 2026.

Committee action: The committee approved the three‑year contract by voice vote, 4–0. The superintendent’s recommendation to accept First Student’s bid carried.

"First Student is our current provider and the bid reflects market pressures," said Dr. Baeta, the superintendent, noting the district had budgeted and planned for an increase but would need to identify how to cover shortfalls in the FY 2026 budget.

The committee also approved a rider fee structure for the upcoming school year: $375 per student with a $750 per‑family cap. The committee emphasized that federally eligible free‑and‑reduced‑price students remain eligible for transportation at no cost under federal law; the fee policy applies to other families who request a seat. The fee motion passed 4–0.

Committee members said the family cap was intended to limit the burden on households with multiple riders. "The cap is a fair compromise," said Lindsay, a committee member who moved the fee motion.

The committee also voted 4–0 to adopt a transportation handbook that clarifies eligibility, registration requirements and emergency procedures. The handbook includes language about emergency weather conditions and the superintendent’s authority to alter usual procedures when safety requires different actions.

District staff said they will publish fee and registration deadlines, provide application receipts electronically to reduce confusion experienced last year, and leave a small number of seats open throughout the year for families who move into town.

What this means: District leaders said the combination of higher transportation costs and limited vendors is a statewide challenge. The committee approved the contracts and policies now so the district can begin registration and route planning in time for the next school year.

Ending: The committee instructed administration to circulate a memo and public notices explaining fees, deadlines and how families can apply for seats and fee waivers if eligible for free or reduced lunch.