08/11/2026
Today, we are releasing new national research of district administrators, educators, and caregivers that ties consistent transportation to improved student outcomes, reduced chronic absenteeism and lateness, and other factors, including districts’ attendance-based funding.
The research found that 76% of caregivers say a reliable ride to school makes their child more successful in the classroom. On the other hand, 77% of teachers say they lose instructional time to transportation issues every week, and 71% lose at least a full day.
The study surveyed 812 caregivers, teachers, and district administrators, all connected to students with additional needs, including students on an IEP or 504 plan, students experiencing housing instability, students in foster care, and students with medical fragility. Fifteen in-depth interviews across ten states added texture to the data.
One finding stands out for district leaders. Only 13% of administrators say all of their qualifying students currently have transportation arranged, even though 70% already rank specialized transportation among their top three priorities. The gap is not a question of effort. It is an opportunity districts are still working to close.
Consistency changes what a school day looks like for these students. A familiar driver, a predictable pickup time, and the same vehicle each morning help a child arrive calmer and more ready to learn. That calm carries into the classroom, into attendance, and into the trust families place in their district.
Read the full report to see what consistent transportation delivers for students, families, and districts: https://www.prweb.com/releases/76-of-caregivers-say-reliable-transportation-makes-their-child-more-successful-in-school-new-research-finds-302846754.html
