A new accessible school bus is on the road this week, transporting students in Kamloops and expanding equitable field trip transportation opportunities in the Kamloops-Thompson School District.
The full-size, 56-passenger school bus is equipped with one wheelchair space and a seating bench featuring two harnesses for students who require extra support. Unlike the district's existing accessible buses which are only available for field trips between 9:15 am and 1:15 pm this new bus will operate on a regular scheduled route. This change significantly expands the hours during which accessible transportation can be booked for field trips, opening availability from 8:30 am to 2:45 pm.
By integrating an accessible bus directly into the daily route system, the district is reinforcing that accessible transportation is a standard part of operations, not a separate or specialized offering. This approach supports the District Strategic Plan value of Equity by working to remove barriers and create environments that provide accessible and empowering opportunities for all students and staff to thrive.
"Having this bus available throughout the full school day means more classes will be able to travel to field trips together," shared Sherry Kristjanson, Director of Transportation. "Students with mobility needs can now travel to field trips and learning experiences with their peers, without needing separate transportation arrangements."
The addition of this brand-new accessible school bus to SD73's transportation fleet marks an important step forward in creating more inclusive and equitable transportation options for all students.
Story provided by Chelsea Isenor, Director of Communications & Board Administration
For more information
1383 Ninth Ave
Kamloops British Columbia
Canada V2C 3X7
www.sd73.bc.ca
