Driving the Future: Kent ISD Unveils Electric Buses

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Kent ISD, in partnership with Dean Transportation, is rolling out ten electric buses for the first time this new school year. The project was funded through a $2.1 million grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and a $2.3 million grant from the State of Michigan.  

“We are excited to have these new, electric buses to transport our students and drive us into the future,” said Dr. Ron Gorman, Superintendent, Kent ISD. “This cutting-edge technology is made possible through partnerships and with support from our community, national and state leadership.”

Dean Transportation applied for the grants on behalf of Kent ISD and coordinated installation of charging infrastructure to support the electric fleet. The fleet at Kent ISD is part of a wider electric bus roll-out. “Dean Transportation's investment in electric vehicles reflects a shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and a focus on providing safe and reliable student transportation throughout Kent ISD,” said Dean Transportation President Patrick Dean. “Today's announcement is a strong example of what can happen when we work together with a shared vision to support students and adopt emerging technology." Including Kent ISD's electric school buses, Dean Transportation now operates 37 throughout the state of Michigan with a plan for 45 by the end of 2026. 

Partners who helped Kent ISD and Dean Transportation make this project happen include the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Michigan Department of Education, Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, Michigan Association of Pupil Transportation and Consumers Energy.