Cache Public Schools Unveils Electric School Buses to Enhance Student Transportation
Cache Public Schools Elects Electric School Buses for Modern Transportation
Cache Public Schools is proud to announce the introduction of six new electric school buses at its annual back-to-school event, a significant upgrade aimed at modernizing the district's transportation system. This event, scheduled for August 11, 2025, will see families engaging with educators and experiencing firsthand the benefits of the district's commitment to sustainability.
In collaboration with Highland Electric Fleets, a leader in electrification services, these six Thomas Built Type C electric buses will be accompanied by six Tellus 30kW DC chargers, marking a substantial step forward for the district's transportation initiatives. Supported by a generous grant of around $2 million from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Clean School Bus Program, Cache Public Schools is making strategic investments in an environmentally friendly future.
The transition to electric buses is not merely about replacing older vehicles; it is about creating a more sustainable and cost-effective system for transporting students. Initial estimates suggest that operating electric buses could save more than 50% in total ownership costs compared to traditional diesel buses, significantly reducing fuel and maintenance expenses for the district.
Chad Hance, the Superintendent of Cache Public Schools, expressed enthusiasm about this new chapter: "Introducing these six electric buses is a step toward a cleaner, quieter future for our students and our community. This initiative showcases how careful planning can yield real benefits for everyone involved, and we are excited to have them operational as the school year commences."
These electric buses are designed to operate on daily routes covering an average of about 50 miles, catering to the transportation needs of students throughout the district. Each bus promises a cooler ride during warm Oklahoma days, outfitted with air conditioning—a welcome change that prioritizes student comfort.
Highland Electric Fleets has played a crucial role not only in facilitating this transition but also in ensuring ongoing support and maintenance. Their expertise includes overseeing vehicle delivery and charger installation, ensuring a seamless integration into the district's transportation network.
Joshua Williams, Senior Midwestern Regional Manager of Highland Electric Fleets, stated, "By migrating to electric buses, Cache is not only enhancing the quality of the ride for students but also effectively managing its transportation costs in the long run."
The unveiling ceremony on August 11 will include a ribbon-cutting event and speeches from various district and community leaders, underlining the commitment of Cache Public Schools to its students and the environment. Attendees will also have the opportunity to take rides on the new electric buses and explore the charging facilities.
Cache Public Schools has been a longstanding institution in Cache, Oklahoma, serving approximately 2,000 students across five campuses and focusing on academic excellence and community engagement. Their mission emphasizes preparing students for success in education and citizenship, making the move to electric buses a natural extension of their commitment to the community.
Highland Electric Fleets, established in 2019, aims to make transitioning to electric vehicle fleets practical and affordable. As a pioneer in electric school bus operations, Highland's initiatives not only contribute to reduced emissions but also stimulate domestic manufacturing, showcasing leadership in electric transportation solutions across North America.
In conclusion, Cache Public Schools' commitment to introducing electric school buses demonstrates a significant shift towards sustainable student transport, improving the transportation experience while fostering a cleaner environment. With the upcoming back-to-school night, the community is poised to witness the unfolding of an innovative chapter in student transportation.