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First Student Hits Six Million Electric Miles

In a significant achievement for sustainability in the transportation sector, First Student recently celebrated driving over 6 million miles with its fleet of electric school buses. This milestone, recognized on Earth Day, showcases the company’s dedication to providing a cleaner and greener means of school transportation across North America.

As the largest operator of electric school buses in the world, First Student has made significant strides in promoting zero-emission transportation solutions for students. The recent achievement highlights their ongoing commitment to reducing carbon footprints and improving air quality in communities. To mark this milestone, First Student has partnered with One Tree Planted, a non-profit organization dedicated to global reforestation efforts. In recognition of each of their 1,300 customers across North America, the company will plant a tree for every electric bus mile logged, contributing to environmental sustainability.

John Kenning, the President and CEO of First Student, emphasized the company’s long-standing mission towards sustainability. He stated, "Sustainability has been at the core of First Student's operations for decades. We strive to reduce our environmental impact and create cleaner communities where we operate. Reaching 6 million miles driven on electric buses is a source of pride for our team, furthering our commitment to a greener future."

Currently, First Student operates 450 electric school buses, leading the industry in electric miles driven and showcasing their innovative transportation solutions. The use of electric buses not only curtails emissions but also directly impacts the health of students and city dwellers by improving air quality and reducing noise pollution. This approach aligns with broader initiatives to transition towards more sustainable transportation options in North America.

First Student’s innovative technology, such as its First Charge EV charging solution, simplifies the transition for school districts considering the switch to electric buses. By providing infrastructure and support, First Student further lowers the barriers to adopting green technologies for education transportation.

The commitment to sustainability has not gone unnoticed. First Student has received numerous accolades and national recognition, including the BIG Award for Green Product of the Year and the prestigious 2025 Edison Award for Scalable Clean Transportation Energy. These honors reflect the company's leadership and innovative practices in the realm of electric transportation, setting a high standard for others in the industry.

Looking ahead, First Student intends to expand its electric fleet and continue paving the way for a sustainable transportation future. The company is on track to complete 1 billion student trips throughout the 2024-25 school year. Their emphasis on safe, reliable, and green transportation keeps First Student recognized as not only the leading provider of K-12 transportation solutions but also one of Fast Company's 2025 Most Innovative Companies.

By ensuring that students have access to clean transportation solutions every day, First Student is not only aiding in their immediate safety but is also cultivating a generation that is aware of and responsive to the urgent need for eco-friendly practices. This focus on enhancing student experiences makes sure every child can travel to school ready to achieve their full potential. Through initiatives like planting trees and expanding electric mileage, First Student is actively participating in building a robust foundation for a sustainable future.

For further information, you can reach out to Jen Biddinger at First Student at 513.362.4600.

As First Student continues its journey towards electrifying the school transportation landscape, it exemplifies how the integration of technology and environmental consciousness can lead to a better world for future generations.