The Snowline Joint Unified School District was awarded a grant to fund two electric school buses and charging infrastructure.
The San Bernardino County-based school district in the Phelan area explained that the $802,586 grant funding came via the Community Air Protection Program through the Mojave Desert Air Quality Management District.
“A strong partnership, years of collaboration, and a shared commitment to investing in student transportation have resulted in an exciting milestone for Snowline Joint Unified School District,” district officials said.
Modern onboard technology
Electric school buses offer several operational advantages, including quieter operation, fewer routine engine maintenance requirements, modern onboard technology and, more importantly, zero emissions, district officials said.
As the buses and charging infrastructure are delivered and installed, Snowline’s transportation team will continue training and preparing for deployment, ensuring students receive the same safe, reliable transportation families have come to expect.
A big win
The grant represents a major investment in Snowline’s transportation department without placing an additional financial burden on local taxpayers, district officials said
By securing outside funding, the district is able to modernize a portion of its fleet while continuing to provide safe, dependable transportation for students across the district’s more than 250 square miles, district officials said.
“This is a tremendous opportunity for Snowline,” Superintendent Ryan Holman said. “Any time we can bring nearly $1 million in grant funding back to our community, it’s a win for our students and taxpayers. This project demonstrates what can happen when dedicated staff pursue opportunities that strengthen our district and position us for the future.”
The partnership
Mojave Desert Air Quality Management District APCO Brad Poiriez said his agency is pleased to be able to partner with Snowline on such an important community project.
The district’s commitment to air quality management has provided a cleaner and safer route to school for the students, parents, and community of Phelan, Poiriez said.
Snowline Transportation Director Danny Medford led the grant effort, according to district officials, working closely with the Mojave Desert Air Quality Management District to bring the project to completion.
“We’re excited to add these buses to our fleet and continue expanding the tools available to safely transport our students every day. I’m incredibly proud of our team and grateful to Mojave Air Quality Management District for partnering with us throughout this process,” Medford said.
The district’s transportation department will receive manufacturer-certified training covering vehicle operation, preventive maintenance, battery systems, charging equipment and safety procedures.
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This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Snowline school district grant to fund electric buses and charging
Reporting by Rene Ray De La Cruz, Victorville Daily Press / Victorville Daily Press
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Rene Ray De La Cruz, Victorville Daily Press | USA TODAY Network
