Spring-Ford Approves New Bus Contractor, With Plan Projected to Save About $1.7M

Spring-Ford Area School District’s board has approved a switch in its student transportation contractor to First Student, a change administrators said is projected to cost about $1.7 million less than competing proposals over seven years. The plan also includes provisions aimed at retaining many current drivers and monitors.

The vote was 9-0 at the board's March 23 meeting, with members approving the transportation agreement subject to final contract review by district administration and the solicitor’s office.

District leaders said the decision followed a process that began several months ago, including multiple bids and a final round of “best and last” proposals. According to interim superintendent Jim Scanlon, First Student’s proposal was the lowest among the finalists and included provisions intended to keep existing staff in place.

New Contract Emphasizes Driver Pay, Hours, and Continuity

Under the terms described at the meeting, First Student would offer positions to current drivers and monitors, as well as mechanics, dispatchers, and management staff who are in good standing with the district. Officials said the proposal includes a guarantee of five hours of work per day for drivers and monitors, along with seniority recognition for incumbent drivers and monitors.

The district also outlined pay and bonus details discussed publicly at the meeting: incumbent CDL drivers would receive a $1,500 sign-on bonus, monitors a $500 sign-on bonus, and pay rates that begin the 2026-27 school year at $31 per hour for incumbent CDL drivers with at least two years of experience, $21 per hour for non-CDL van drivers, and $17.50 per hour for monitors. The proposal includes minimum annual increases of 3%, and officials said CDL drivers could have access to additional earning opportunities through the company.

The decision drew an emotional response during public comment. A Limerick Township resident and longtime bus driver said she was disappointed by how the change was shared publicly before the owner of one of the current transportation contractors, Custer's Garage, had the opportunity to speak directly with employees. She urged the district to handle major staffing decisions with greater consideration for those affected.

Board members acknowledged the community’s strong connection to its drivers and the daily student experience, while also pointing to updated technology included in the proposal, such as GPS-based bus tracking and newer equipment.

Long-Term Facilities Plan Outlines Renovations

Beyond transportation, the board also unanimously approved resolutions tied to a 10-year capital plan focused on renovating existing buildings and adding space at elementary schools. As described at the meeting, the plan’s goals include expanding to full-day kindergarten across the district, shifting to a grades 6–8 middle school model, and closing the district’s 8th Grade Center as part of a future reconfiguration.

Administrators said the next step is beginning design and land development work for early phases of construction, a process expected to take roughly a year to a year and a half. The board also approved moving forward with GKO Architects for design work tied to the first stages of renovations.