New school bus company starts in Columbia

The start of school is just around the corner, and over the last few months, Columbia Public Schools has several projects underway to keep up with growing enrollment.

They have also started a new contract with a new bus company.

After more than 30 years, the district’s contract with First Student has ended.

Student Transportation of America took over in July.

The district has about 200 buses and drivers are going through training. So far they’ve spent at least 8 hours in class and 8 on the road.

We asked Columbia school board member Helen Wade if parents can expect any growing pains at the beginning of the year with the new company.

“Just like with anything new, there are times when things don’t work out exactly as planned. But we’re very optimistic this is a very organized company that has paid a lot of attention to the training of our drivers to make sure everybody knows what they need to be doing and where they need to be, and the level of care we expect for our students,” said Wade.