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CASSOPOLIS — Facing the need to replace aging school buses the Cassopolis Public Schools sought and was awarded a federal grant to replace three 19 year old diesel buses with three new clean electric school buses.  The grant funded approximately 95 percent of the cost to purchase the new buses as well as the infrastructure required to operate the electric buses.

The arrival of these new buses will be a huge benefit to our school and students. They feature the most up to date technology and safety features. Electric buses reduce emissions and improve air quality. These buses are very quiet to operate, all of which will ensure our students are safe and comfortable on their way to and from school.

The district will now have a mix of diesel and electric buses in their fleet.  “We are in the unique position of being able to use each type of bus where most appropriate,” stated Cassopolis Superintendent Dr. John Ritzler. “Furthermore, we will be able to compare the total cost of operation for each type of bus which will inform our decisions moving forward as we continue to update our fleet.”

Ritzler continued, “the biggest winners are the taxpayers of Cassopolis.  We were literally able to purchase three new electric buses and the infrastructure to support them for significantly less than a single new diesel bus.  Frankly, it is a win for the environment, a win for the taxpayers, and a win for the students.”

“As a district we are constantly looking for ways to serve our students in the most economically responsible way,” added CPS Director of Finance James English. “As we develop designs to best serve our students, we are committed to maximizing every dollar spent.”