Being prepared with the facts about the benefits of partnering with a private school transportation services provider can help districts avoid confusion and productively manage change within their communities. Here are some common misconceptions that may arise during the contracting decision process, and the myth-busting facts to help relieve those concerns.
| FICTION | FACT |
| School boards will lose control of key decisions affecting student transportation. | A structured, long-term relationship, built on mutual trust and understanding, can greatly reduce the likelihood of any control issues arising. Service providers are required by contractual law to provide service based on current school board policy. The board will retain control over transportation policy and gain an experienced partner in managing daily operations. |
| An outside partner won’t have the long-term interests of the district in mind. | An experienced, long-term partner will see the benefits from and necessity of engaging with a district in fulfilling its broader mission within the community it serves. |
| Contracting eliminates driver jobs and reduces the tax base. | Any reputable service provider will understand the value and importance of retaining most, if not all, of a district’s current drivers. |
| Contracting limits job security, work environment and career opportunities. | Employees will receive access to competitive wages and benefits. Additional earnings opportunities from charter business during the summer months and access to tools, resources, training, and advanced technologies are just a few of the benefits drivers can expect to enjoy. |
| School bus private contractors don’t deliver on their promises. | The overall success of contracting is ultimately shown by the fact that more than a third of all districts partner with a private company. By following contracting best practices, districts create more opportunities for cost savings, efficiency, and overall safety and service improvement. |
| Private contractors are anti-union. | Private contractors employ union and non-union drivers, bus aides and mechanics. As previously stated, private contractors aim to retain most, if not all, of existing employees. Additionally, private contractors are obligated to recognize the existing union and bargain according to applicable law. |