Augusta County Public Schools addressing bus driver shortage with E-Vans

FISHERSVILLE, Va. (WHSV) - Augusta County Public Schools in Virginia is tackling the nationwide bus driver shortage with a creative solution—electric passenger vans.

In partnership with Secure Solar Futures, the district launched an E-Van pool pilot program In October using two Ford E-Transit vans to transport students on select routes. The door-to-door pickup is tailored to students in rural areas, including Churchville Elementary, Buffalo Gap Middle and High Schools, and the Walkers Creek area serving Riverheads schools. ACPS cites that the smaller electric vehicles, such as the solar-powered E-Vanpool, will enhance safety by navigating narrow roads like Marble Valley and Deerfield Valley more easily and avoiding tight maneuvers needed by large buses.

ACPS notes this program shortens bus rides for E-Van students, offering them more time for sleep, homework, and family activities while also benefiting other students on the bus. These vans, which can carry up to 10 students, require only a standard driver’s license, allowing school staff, including teacher aides, to step in as drivers. This approach addresses the shortage while offering shorter commutes for students, some of whom are saving up to two hours per day.

“It’s no secret there is a bus driver shortage nationwide, and it’s affecting us here in Augusta County as well, and you do not have to have a CDL to drive one of these vans,” said Dr. Nick Nycum, executive director of transportation for ACPS.

According to ACPS, the E-Vans will also bring significant financial and environmental benefits. By reducing long bus routes by up to 60 miles round trip, the program has saved the district over $1,000 in fuel costs during its first month. Additionally, the vans are powered by clean energy from solar systems installed on seven school campuses. This not only reduces the district’s carbon footprint but also provides a quieter, healthier ride for students and drivers alike.

“A lot of these opportunities grow out of conversation with our customers as to what are the challenges they are facing and how can we address them together and devise something collaboratively that is a win-win” said Tony Smith president and founder of Secure Solar Futures.

ACPS has signed a five-year lease with Secure Solar Futures, with the hope for a more sustainable future in more parts of Augusta County.