Voters See Electric School Buses as Key to Enhanced Student Mental Health and Well-Being

New Survey Links Electric School Buses to Improved Mental Health for Students

A recent national survey conducted by Highland Electric Fleets has illuminated a significant connection between electric school buses and better mental health for students. This survey suggests that both voters and parents believe that transitioning from diesel to electric buses can directly enhance the emotional and academic success of students, especially those with special needs or sensory sensitivities.

Key Findings from the Survey

The survey, which gathered insights from over 1,000 voters, shows that a notable 67% of parents believe that reducing environmental stressors such as diesel fumes and loud noise during the school commute can foster a healthier environment for children's learning. Moreover, 70% of all voters agree that a less noisy and calmer bus ride is crucial for students' mental well-being, and this figure rises to 81% among parents. This indicates a strong consensus on the importance of a conducive transport experience for children.

Ross Szabo, a prominent mental health advocate and CEO of the Human Power Project, emphasized the importance of a child's daily routine, noting, "We can't discuss student mental health without considering their environment, which includes the manner in which they travel to school. A quieter bus ride can actively minimize stress, enabling children to arrive at school prepared to learn."

Preference for Electric Buses

When participants were asked about which type of school bus they believed would better support students' mental health, they overwhelmingly favored electric buses over their diesel counterparts by a staggering four-to-one ratio. Concerns about diesel emissions are widespread, with approximately two-thirds of surveyed voters expressing unease about the potential health effects, including more than 71% of mothers acknowledging these worries.

The survey results highlight an even stronger preference among respondents regarding the needs of students with sensory sensitivities or who identify as neurodivergent. Respondents cited the quieter and smoother ride offered by electric buses as a significant factor that could alleviate sensory stress and promote inclusivity in the school environment. This growing awareness about the adverse effects of diesel exhaust further supports the push for electric buses as a means to create a healthier transportation experience for all students.

Duncan McIntyre, Founder and CEO of Highland Electric Fleets, expressed optimism about the growing acknowledgment of electric buses' benefits, stating, "We are pleased to see parents recognizing the positive impact that electric school buses can have on students' overall well-being. Our mission is to assist school districts in making the switch from diesel to electric, not only for the environmental benefits but also to ensure that students enjoy a tranquil and health-promoting travel experience."

The Role of Highland Electric Fleets

Founded in 2019, Highland Electric Fleets is at the forefront of providing 'electrification-as-a-service' within North America. Their efforts focus on simplifying the transition for various vehicle fleets—including school buses—toward electric alternatives. Notably, Highland has pioneered the commercial use of electric school buses within vehicle-to-grid (V2G) programs and manages the largest electric school bus project in the U.S.

With around 95% of school buses being manufactured in the United States, the shift towards electrification not only drives innovation but also bolsters domestic production, creating job opportunities across the country. This transition aims to reduce emissions while also lowering operational expenses for school districts.

Conclusion

In summary, the findings from Highland Electric Fleets' national survey underscore an essential link between electric school buses and student mental health. By recognizing the vital role that transportation plays in a child’s school experience, stakeholders can move towards implementing changes that prioritize both environmental sustainability and the well-being of our future generations. The positive feedback from parents and voters echoes a growing trend that calls for quieter, cleaner, and more inclusive transportation solutions for students across the nation.

For more information on Highland Electric Fleets and their initiatives, please visit www.highlandfleets.com.