Board approves transit pass program to give high school students and staff free rides year-round

The Duluth Public Schools board approved a memorandum of understanding on Tuesday with the Duluth Transit Authority to provide bus passes for all currently enrolled district high school students, Area Learning Center students and district staff.

The motion to approve the contract was made by Member Loefflerkamp and seconded; the board voted in favor and the motion carried. Assistant Superintendent Bonds noted the program covers the remainder of fiscal 2024–25 and fiscal 2025–26 with an option for an additional year; reimbursement rates and a maximum cap are subject to negotiation. Bonds told the board the passes also include summer coverage for students in summer school or employment.

Student representatives praised the plan. Student rep Latasia Garner said she appreciated the program because “a lot of students at my school who don't have transportation” benefited. Student rep Kate Dean urged broader publicity to ensure students and families know the option is available.

Why it matters: The program aims to remove barriers to attendance, after-school programming and employment for high school students and to reduce strain on district transportation for field trips and off-site learning.

Implementation notes: The contract includes reimbursements to the DTA; the district will track usage and discuss reimbursement rate and maximum cap as part of ongoing negotiations.

Ending: Board members and administrators called the approval an equity-focused move and said they will publicize the program to schools, families and community partners.