Revolutionizing School Transportation: Seneca Valley Partners with First Student for a Safer Experience

Enhancing Student Transportation in Seneca Valley

In a significant move towards improving the safety and reliability of student transportation, the Seneca Valley School District (SVSD) has announced a partnership with First Student, a leading innovator in the school transportation sector. Beginning with the upcoming 2025-2026 school year, First Student will introduce a state-of-the-art fleet composed of nearly 150 new buses equipped with their acclaimed HALO™ technology platform.

This initiative aims not only to modernize how students commute to school but also to elevate the overall experience for students and their families. With a commitment to providing real-time visibility and data-driven safety features, the HALO technology ensures that parents and guardians can stay connected with their children’s daily transportation.

HALO Technology: A Game Changer

The HALO technology platform is designed to enhance communication, safety, and transparency throughout the transportation process. Each bus in the new fleet will be outfitted with advanced technologies that include driver tablets, AI-driven cameras, and comprehensive video systems. Moreover, the integration of a child check system ensures that every student is accounted for upon arrival and departure from the bus.

One of the standout features of this partnership is the FirstView app, which allows families and school staff to track buses in real time. This live GPS tracking capability not only offers peace of mind for parents but also aids in logistical planning for school events. It creates a seamless flow of information between the school district, parents, and transportation providers.

John Kenning, the President and CEO of First Student, emphasized the importance of delivering an optimal experience for every student. He stated, "For Seneca Valley families, that means combining a brand-new fleet with technology that keeps parents connected and informed." This commitment aims to ensure that every journey to school is not only safe but also positive and reliable.

Commitment to Safety

Safety is a top priority for First Student, which has been at the forefront of school transportation for years. By utilizing cutting-edge on-vehicle technology, the company can provide a secure environment for students while fostering trust within the community. The HALO platform supports school districts with advanced navigation systems, helping to optimize routes for timely arrivals, while also monitoring student behavior to promote accountability among passengers.

Dr. Tracy Vitale, the Superintendent of Schools at Seneca Valley, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, "Seneca Valley is committed to providing the safest and most reliable transportation possible for our students." She acknowledged the tremendous resources and expertise that First Student brings, which will significantly enhance the district's transportation program.

Supporting Inclusivity

First Student also demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity through its First Serves™ program. This initiative equips drivers with specialized training and communication tools, aimed particularly at accommodating students with disabilities. By fostering an inclusive environment, First Student ensures every child can enjoy a welcoming and supportive commute.

As the second-largest provider of K-12 transportation in North America, First Student is on course to complete over 1 billion student rides in the 2025-26 school year alone. The company prides itself on delivering not just students but also reliability and peace of mind. With an extensive fleet comprising over 46,000 vehicles—including electric buses—First Student is redefining what school transportation can look like.

A Future-Oriented Partnership

This partnership between Seneca Valley School District and First Student is a glimpse into the future of student transportation. By prioritizing both safety and innovation, these organizations are setting a new standard in an industry that had long needed modernization. With their focus on technology, First Student is poised to revolutionize the transportation experience for students, families, and school districts alike.

For parents, guardians, and educators, the collaboration between Seneca Valley School District and First Student brings not only new advancements in technology but a renewed commitment to ensuring that every ride is safe, reliable, and fosters a sense of community. As this partnership unfolds, it will undoubtedly serve as a model for other districts aiming to improve their transportation services.