A strong partnership, years of collaboration, and a shared commitment to investing in student transportation have resulted in an exciting milestone for the Snowline Joint Unified School District (Snowline JUSD). The district has been awarded $802,586 in grant funding from the Community Air Protection Program through the Mojave Desert Air Quality Management District (MDAQMD). The funds will be utilized to purchase two new electric school buses and install the necessary charging infrastructure.
The grant represents a major investment in Snowline’s transportation department without placing any additional financial burden on local taxpayers. By securing outside funding, the district is able to modernize a portion of its fleet while continuing to provide safe, dependable transportation for students across the district’s more than 250 square miles.
“This is a tremendous opportunity for Snowline,” said Superintendent Dr. Ryan Holman. “Any time we can bring nearly $1 million in grant funding back to our community, it’s a win for our students and taxpayers. This project demonstrates what can happen when dedicated staff pursue opportunities that strengthen our district and position us for the future.”
Brad Poiriez, MDAQMD Air Pollution Control Officer (APCO), expressed his support for the collaboration, “We are pleased to be able to partner with Snowline on such an important community project. The district’s commitment to air quality management has provided a cleaner and safer route to school for the students, parents, and community of Phelan.”
Key Highlights of the Project:
- Leadership & Collaboration: Snowline Transportation Director Danny Medford led the grant effort, working closely with MDAQMD representatives to bring the project to completion.
- Comprehensive Staff Training: The district’s transportation department will receive manufacturer-certified training covering vehicle operation, preventive maintenance, battery systems, charging equipment, and safety procedures. This ensures Snowline staff are fully prepared to maintain the new buses.
- Operational Advantages: Electric school buses offer several key benefits, including quieter operation, fewer routine engine maintenance requirements, modern onboard technology, and zero emissions.
Amanda Koncur of the MDAQMD noted that the project has been years in the making, sharing, “We’re excited to celebrate this milestone with Snowline Joint Unified School District. Partnerships like this help school districts access funding that may not otherwise be available.”
While these electric buses represent a portion of Snowline’s total transportation fleet, they provide a valuable opportunity for the district to gain hands-on experience with emerging transportation technology while continuing to operate its dependable fleet of conventional buses. As the buses and charging infrastructure are delivered and installed, Snowline’s transportation team will continue training and preparing for deployment.
