#United States #Cincinnati #First Student #Student Safety #First Serves

First Student Sets a New Benchmark in Student Transportation Safety

First Student, a leader in school transportation, recently unveiled its innovative safety training initiative, First Serves. This groundbreaking program is designed to cater specifically to the transportation needs of students with special requirements. Announced on August 7, 2025, First Serves is the first training program in the student transportation sector that has received approval to offer Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for social workers in Michigan, marking a significant milestone.

Developed in collaboration with child care experts and leading research institutions, the First Serves program aims to improve the way student transportation services address the challenges faced by students with special needs. Recognized for its comprehensive and real-world application, this program emphasizes behavioral training and support, effectively enhancing the overall experience for students during their rides to school.

Notably, First Student has demonstrated that participation in the First Serves training has resulted in a 27% decrease in behavioral incidents on school buses, an achievement that underscores the program's effectiveness. This approval for offering CEUs is a testament to the academic rigor of the program and highlights its growing importance for educators and support staff across the nation.

John Kenning, CEO and President of First Student, stated, "At First Student, safety isn't just a priority; it’s our purpose. We continuously strive to elevate the standards of student transportation, and First Serves showcases our commitment to ensure our teams are well-equipped to protect every student, especially those who are most vulnerable."

First Serves has gained additional recognition through its selection to present at the Michigan Association of Administrators of Special Education (MAASE) Summer Institute on August 10. This prestigious event gathers key figures in special education, fostering dialogue around leadership, policy developments, and professional learning opportunities. First Student's involvement reflects a broader acknowledgment of the program's influence on student behavior and collaboration between transportation providers and educational institutions.

Will McDermott, Head of Student Services at First Student, expressed pride in the national recognition of First Serves. "We view our program as not only a transportation solution but also a vital part of student success," he remarked. "The fact that we can offer CEUs and present at the MAASE event affirms our commitment to empowering educators and support professionals to better serve students with special needs."

At the MAASE Summer Institute, First Student will host a session titled Drive to Improve: Developing a Partnership between Transportation and Special Education to Improve Bus Behavior. This session, selected through a competitive review, will equip special education administrators and transportation professionals with strategies to collaborate effectively and enhance student outcomes.

Abby Cypher, Executive Director of MAASE, expressed excitement about First Student’s participation, commenting, "We are eager to learn from First Serves on improving collaborations between special education administrators and transportation providers, which is essential for fostering successful educational outcomes for students with disabilities."

A Commitment to Transforming Student Transportation

First Student is dedicated to reimagining the student transportation experience for 5.5 million learners across North America each day. With safety as its guiding principle, the company is preparing to complete 1 billion student rides during the 2025-26 school year, ensuring families and school districts receive not just transportation, but also peace of mind.

In addition to its training programs, First Student boasts a fleet of 45,000 vehicles, including electric buses, representing its commitment to sustainable practices and innovation. Recently recognized as one of Fast Company's Most Innovative Companies for 2025, First Student continues to enhance its services, which include special needs transport, AI route optimization, fleet electrification, and vehicle maintenance services.

Every ride with First Student is designed not only to be safe but to foster an environment that supports students' educational journeys. By prioritizing innovative solutions and collaborating with educational leaders, First Student is poised to lead the future of student transportation, one ride at a time.