#United States #Virginia Beach #Student Transportation #Zūm

Virginia Beach City Public Schools Partners with Zūm

In a groundbreaking move, Virginia Beach City Public Schools (VBCPS) has signed a three-year contract with Zūm, a frontrunner in modern student transportation solutions. This partnership is a significant step towards transforming school transportation for the district’s 63,000 students, leveraging cutting-edge technology for a safer and more efficient experience.

A Commitment to Safety and Efficiency

The deal entails the deployment of Zūm's robust technology platform, which integrates sophisticated routing software and real-time GPS tracking. With the Zum Parent App, parents can now easily access information regarding their child's school bus, fostering a connection between parents, drivers, schools, and administrators. This innovation not only promises to optimize school bus routes, but also to reduce commute times, ensuring that students arrive at school safely and efficiently.

Dr. Donald Robertson Jr., the VBCPS Superintendent, expressed enthusiasm for the new initiative, stating, "Families in our division deserve top-notch student transportation, and we are excited to partner with Zūm to provide an exceptional experience." The VBCPS aims to utilize Zūm's platform to guarantee reliable bus rides, enhancing peace of mind for parents concerning their children’s safety.

Real-Time Tracking and Dynamic Routing

One of the standout features of this partnership is the real-time tracking capability offered by Zum’s technology. Parents can monitor the status of their child's transportation at any moment, receiving updates about pick-up and drop-off times. Additionally, the VBCPS administrators will have the ability to navigate a live map, tracking buses throughout their journeys. This real-time capability allows for adjustments to be made depending on the situation, such as dealing with absent or delayed students or navigating through high-traffic areas.

James Lash, the executive director of Transportation and Fleet Management Services for the district, highlighted the responsiveness that this technology affords: "With real-time tracking and dynamic routing, we are better equipped to ensure safe and on-time rides for our students, even when unexpected challenges arise." This flexibility not only benefits students but also enhances the overall transport management system in the district.

Addressing Equity in Transportation

Zūm is not just about modernizing logistics; it’s also focused on creating equitable solutions for all students. By addressing the unique needs of those from low-income backgrounds and students with special needs who frequently rely on school buses, Zūm aims to rectify long-standing disparities in student transportation. In fact, districts that have partnered with Zūm have seen on-time arrivals surge to 98%, with student commute times reduced by as much as 20%. This is an essential facet of ensuring all students have equal opportunities for success in their educational journeys.

Currently, Zūm operates in various states across the nation, including California, Colorado, and Virginia, among others. The recent collaboration with other school districts, like Boston Public Schools and Salt Lake City School District, further emphasizes the fast-growing movement in student transportation.

A Vision for the Future

As the first carbon-neutral student transportation company, Zūm is committed to providing sustainable solutions that not only reduce emissions but also optimize fleet efficiency. Recognized by the Financial Times as one of 2023’s Fastest Growing Companies, Zūm is dedicated to revolutionizing the landscape of school transportation with an eye towards the future.

To explore more about how Zūm is shaping the future of student transportation across the nation and to stay updated on developments in your area, visit their official website at www.ridezum.com.

Virginia Beach City Public Schools' partnership with Zūm marks a pivotal shift in how student transportation will operate, with the goal of facilitating safer, more efficient, and equitable travel for all students. The district is setting a precedent for others to follow, demonstrating that innovative technology can make a significant difference in the lives of students and their families.