Jackson Public Schools receiving $8M for electric buses
LANSING, Mich. (WILX) - The Jackson Public Schools district will receive $8,295,000 to buy 21 new electric buses.
It’s part of a larger award being given out to schools across the country in an effort to transition to zero-emission vehicles and reduce air pollution near schools.
“That’s obviously gonna help our operating expenses for the district, and we’ll be able to put that money back into the classrooms to help students,” said Jackson Public Schools Assistant Superintendent Marcus Leon.
Leon was the driving force behind Jackson School’s grant application.
“I think we’ve got a year or two before we’ll see them in operation. Training our staff, our mechanics, and our drivers. It’s a big undertaking but we’re glad to be a part of it,” said Leon.
Leon had a meeting today to fine-tune some details, but the school’s next step is reaching out to electric bus suppliers.
Timothy Newman is the chief mechanic for Jackson Public Schools, and he’s excited about the new buses.
“I brag about being a part of this district,” said Newman. “We were kind of one of the biggest around in this area to go with the clean burn propane buses.”
He says he feels really proud to help the district pioneer the newest transportation technology. He thinks the transition will be a good one.
“As a mechanic, you’re always interested in what’s new and what’s happening. Me and my team are looking forward to being a part of it,” said Newman.
Reminder: Michigan drivers are required to stop for school buses
Michigan will receive more than $54 million, which will be distributed to 25 school districts. The $8 million given to Jackson Public Schools will allow the district to buy new 21 electric buses.
Jackson received the second-most in Michigan, behind the nearly $10 million awarded to Pontiac City School District.
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