District selects new company to provide student transportation services
The Wichita Public Schools will have a new company providing transportation services beginning next school year. On January 25, the Board of Education approved a contract with First Student. First Student will have a seven-year contract that will be evaluated and reviewed annually. First Student will replace Durham School Services, which has served the district for 14 years.

“Probably the only big change parents will see is First Student painted on the side of the bus,” said Darren Muci, Division Director of Operations.

A team from employees across the district looked at proposals from both First Student and Durham. The team decided on recommendation for First Student after looking at newer buses, technology and student safety features, management philosophy, employee training and retention and customer service for schools and parents.

“After looking at both proposals, the selection team thought the district would be served best with First Student,” Muci said.

First Student will work with Durham School Services’ employees regarding a transition plan and how they can apply for jobs with First Student.

More than 23,000 students receive bus transportation services daily in the Wichita Public Schools.




January 28, 2010