Beyond the Ride: First Student Pioneers Proactive Training for Special Needs Transport

Oklahoma City, OK – November 6, 2025 – While the buzz around school transportation often centers on electrification and route optimization, a quieter revolution is underway: a renewed focus on how students are transported, particularly those with special needs. At this week’s Council of Administrators of Special Education (CASE) conference, First Student is presenting a case study detailing its ‘First Serves’ program – an initiative that goes beyond basic driver training to foster empathy, understanding, and proactive behavior management.

For a sector historically focused on logistics, First Student's approach represents a significant shift. The company’s presentation isn’t about new vehicles or algorithms; it’s about equipping drivers and attendants with the skills to create a safer, more inclusive environment for students with diverse needs. And it's doing so with a credentialing approach previously unseen in the industry.

Beyond Compliance: A Proactive Approach

For years, special needs transportation has often been defined by compliance – ensuring students arrive at school safely. First Serves aims to go further, focusing on preventing incidents before they occur. The program’s curriculum, developed in collaboration with special education experts, covers a wide range of topics, including de-escalation techniques, recognizing signs of distress, and understanding the unique challenges faced by students with various disabilities.

“Historically, the emphasis has been on simply getting students to school,” explained one school district transportation manager, speaking anonymously. “This program is different. It’s about empowering drivers to respond to situations with sensitivity and understanding, rather than just reacting to a crisis.”

The program isn't merely theoretical. It includes scenario-based training, role-playing exercises, and ongoing professional development opportunities. This emphasis on practical application is a key differentiator, according to industry analysts.

A First-of-Its-Kind Credentialing Partnership

What sets First Serves apart even further is its recent partnership with Michigan’s Board of Social Work. The program is now approved for six Continuing Education Units (CEUs) – a first for a student transportation provider. This means that drivers who complete the training can earn professional development credits towards their own certifications, effectively raising the bar for the entire industry.

“It's a game-changer,” said a social worker involved in the program’s development. “It demonstrates a commitment to ongoing professional development and recognizes the importance of specialized skills in this critical role. Previously, there was little incentive for drivers to pursue additional training in this area.”

The CEU approval not only enhances the program’s credibility but also helps attract and retain qualified drivers, a persistent challenge in the transportation sector. By offering a pathway for professional growth, First Student is positioning itself as an employer of choice.

Beyond the Numbers: Measuring Impact

While the company touts a 27% reduction in reported behavioral incidents in districts implementing First Serves, measuring the true impact of such a program is complex. Beyond incident reports, the program aims to foster a more positive and supportive environment for students.

“It’s not just about reducing incidents; it’s about improving the overall student experience,” said one special education teacher who has seen the program in action. “Students feel safer and more comfortable, which can have a significant impact on their learning and well-being.”

School districts report that the program has also led to improved communication between drivers, teachers, and parents, fostering a more collaborative approach to student support. However, achieving these qualitative benefits requires ongoing commitment and investment from all stakeholders.

The Broader Context: Innovation and Inclusion

First Student’s investment in First Serves is part of a broader trend towards innovation and inclusion in the school transportation sector. While electric buses and AI-powered route optimization grab headlines, the company is also exploring other technologies to enhance the student experience, such as real-time tracking and communication systems.

However, technology alone is not enough. Creating a truly inclusive transportation system requires a holistic approach that prioritizes the needs of all students, especially those with disabilities. This means investing in training, fostering collaboration, and promoting a culture of empathy and understanding.

“We’re seeing a shift in mindset,” said an industry analyst. “School transportation is no longer just about getting students from point A to point B. It’s about creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment that empowers all students to thrive.”

First Student’s First Serves program is a step in that direction – and a potential model for other districts to follow. By prioritizing proactive training and professional development, the company is demonstrating that investing in people is just as important as investing in technology. The long-term success of this initiative will depend on its scalability, sustainability, and continued commitment to the needs of all students.