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Board approves purchase of three 2024 Honda Odysseys to support van-to-bus driver program
Summary
The Big Walnut board approved buying three 2024 Honda Odyssey vans (vendor: Lindsay Automotive) to expand a van-to-bus driver training program and provide shorter rides for some special-needs students; the vote was unanimous in favor.
The Big Walnut Local School District board voted to approve the purchase of three 2024 Honda Odyssey vans from Lindsay Automotive to support a van‑to‑bus driver training program and route flexibility for students with special needs.
Administration said the vans will expand the district’s ability to provide shorter, more tailored transportation when appropriate and serve as a step in training new drivers who can later secure a school-bus CDL. Officials noted that if the district can recruit and train drivers, it may reduce reliance on outside contracted services such as TriStar for certain routes.
The agenda listed amounts of $119,000 and $119,105 — the transcript contains both figures; the board approved the purchase as presented. Trustees discussed handicap access and the cost to install wheel lifts, noting that current wheeler buses would still be used when required for accessibility.
When the board voted, recorded 'Yes' responses in the transcript came from Mr. Crowell, Mr. Duffy, Mrs. Nicks and Mrs. Graciosi; the chair announced the motion carried. The administration said vans and a driver‑training program would allow more in‑house transportation options if recruitment and costs make it feasible.
