Wichita Schools Transform Bus Rides with New Behavioral Support Model

WICHITA, KS – March 17, 2026 – For many students, the school day begins and ends on the bus, a space that can be challenging for those who require additional support. In Wichita, a groundbreaking partnership is redefining this daily journey, transforming potentially stressful rides into safer, calmer experiences. Through a collaboration with First Student, North America's largest student transportation provider, Wichita Public Schools is implementing an innovative program that moves beyond logistics to focus on the well-being of every child.

The initiative, known as First Serves, equips drivers with new tools and a deeper understanding of student behavior. The results are already tangible, highlighted by a simple yet profound solution for one student who frequently threw objects on the bus. Instead of a punitive response, the team introduced lightweight silk scarves, providing a safe and appropriate outlet for the student's sensory needs. This small change created a more controlled and comfortable ride for everyone on board.

This success story is not an isolated incident but a result of a systematic, student-centered approach that is setting a new standard for student transportation.

A Blueprint for Collaborative Success

The foundation of the program's success in Wichita lies in a deeply collaborative relationship between the school district and its transportation partner. Local First Student team members and district leaders engage in biweekly meetings, creating a dedicated forum to assess student needs, share real-time updates, and brainstorm creative solutions. This consistent, open line of communication ensures that strategies are not just developed but are also effective and responsive.

"By working closely with the First Student team, we've been able to identify solutions that are both thoughtful and effective," said Lisa Riveros, Transportation Director for Wichita Public Schools. "The progress we've seen with First Serves is a direct result of open communication, shared problem-solving, and a commitment to doing what's best for our students."

This public-private partnership model demonstrates a shift from a transactional service agreement to an integrated support system. By embedding transportation within the broader educational mission, the district and its partner are ensuring that the principles of support and care extend beyond the classroom walls and onto the yellow bus.

Empowering Drivers on the Front Lines

A key component of the First Serves program is its focus on empowering drivers and attendants. The initiative provides specialized, research-based training developed in partnership with experts from leading children's hospitals and behavioral psychologists. This training moves beyond basic safety protocols to delve into the root causes of student behavior, covering topics like de-escalation tactics and understanding the stages of the "rage cycle."

"As a driver, I see this student every single day, and the difference has been incredible," shared David Cantrell, a First Student driver in Wichita. "What used to be a really challenging ride is now calmer and more predictable – not just for this student, but for everyone on the bus."

This specialized knowledge transforms drivers from operators into skilled members of a student's support team. By learning to respond with patience, empathy, and consistency, they can proactively manage situations and build trust with students who need it most. The program utilizes a "train-the-trainer" model, ensuring this expertise is disseminated widely and sustainably throughout the local workforce.

"Through First Serves' behavioral support approach... I've learned to respond with patience and consistency," Cantrell added. "This approach has completely changed how we support students, and it's rewarding to see students feel safer and more comfortable each morning."

From Local Success to a National Standard

What began as a pilot program is now a data-driven, scalable model for improving student transportation nationwide. First Student reports that districts implementing the program have seen a 27% decrease in behavioral incidents, tracked through its proprietary digital reporting system, 'FirstActs.' This reduction not only enhances safety but also ensures students arrive at school ready to learn, maximizing instructional time.

The program is built to align with established educational frameworks, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), making it easier for districts to integrate into their existing special education strategies. It also provides resources for families, such as "All About Me" forms and social stories, bridging the gap between home, school, and the bus ride.

Recognizing the widespread need, First Student is now offering the First Serves program as a standalone service available to any school district in North America, even those who do not use the company for their daily transportation needs. Offered in three distinct tiers, districts can tailor the training and support to fit their specific budgets and requirements.

"At First Student, our values of caring for students and focusing on safety guide everything we do, and our mission is to provide the best transportation experience, so students arrive ready to achieve their full potential," said John Kenning, CEO and President of First Student. "First Serves is a powerful example of how we bring that mission to life, combining expertise, empathy, and innovation to create safer, calmer, and more supportive rides for students who need it most."

By proving that a school bus can be more than just a mode of transit, the partnership in Wichita is paving the way for a future where every part of the school day is an opportunity to support student success.