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First Student's Commitment to Safety

In recognition of National School Bus Safety Week, running from October 19 to 23, First Student, the largest provider of student transportation in North America, is emphasizing the critical role of safety in their operations. Under the theme "Safe Rides, Everyday Heroes," the company is honoring the drivers and transportation personnel who ensure the safety of students daily. They are actively showcasing how their innovative HALO™ Connected Transportation Platform not only enhances safety but also supports drivers throughout the North American fleet.

Operating more than 48,000 vehicles, First Student transports millions of students each day, completing nearly twice as many passenger trips as the entire U.S. airline industry. To manage such a vast operation, they leverage a blend of advanced technology, rigorous training, and real-time operational insights aimed at improving safety and empowering those tasked with student transportation.

At the heart of their safety approach lies HALO, a proprietary platform that integrates technology, data, and personnel to identify potential risks and foster informed decision-making. This proactive strategy enables transportation teams to spot hazards in real time, facilitate supportive coaching for drivers, and continuously enhance performance standards.

During a recent pilot program lasting four weeks, First Student recorded an impressive 63% drop in forward collision incidents and a 54% decrease in rolling stops. These statistics highlight the tangible benefits that connected technology and comprehensive operation insights can yield for both drivers and students.

John Kenning, CEO and President of First Student, underlined the organization’s steadfast commitment to prioritizing safety as a core value embedded in their daily activities. "Families entrust us with their children’s safety, and we approach this responsibility with the utmost seriousness. Our ongoing investment in our people, processes, and technology epitomizes our dedication to fostering a safe transportation environment for students," he stated.

To reinforce their initiatives during School Bus Safety Week, First Student's Safety staff will recognize employees for exemplary safety performances, highlight the significance of driver training and technology in supporting safer operations, and remind students, families, and motorists of their roles in maintaining a safe environment. Motorists are urged to remain vigilant, obey school zone rules, and stop for buses displaying activated stop signs. Furthermore, families and students are encouraged to stay alert and comply with instructions provided by their bus drivers at all times.

Kenning concluded by reaffirming First Student’s mission, which centers on ensuring students arrive safely at school ready to learn and succeed. Through ongoing technological advancements, training, and supportive measures for all team members, First Student is resolutely focused on raising the standards of student transportation, thereby fulfilling the trust that families bestow upon them with each journey.

To learn more about First Student’s unwavering commitment to safety and the measures they are implementing to enhance the safety for every student, visit SafeRidesMatter.com today.

About First Student

First Student is North America's leading student transportation provider, safely transporting millions of students across the United States and Canada each day. With a vast fleet and a workforce of highly trained drivers, the company partners with school districts to deliver safe, reliable transportation solutions that families rely upon. Honored with the CIO 100 Award and recognized as one of TIME100's Most Influential Companies in 2026, First Student offers various services, including special needs transportation, maintenance, vehicle electrification, and chartering services. Through its HALO™ Connected Transportation Platform, First Student is innovating student transportation, merging safety, operations, maintenance, workforce management, and communication into a cohesive system that enhances safety and operational performance.