A synopsis of the results of a study conducted for the Bozeman, Montana, Public Schools. The study evaluated the feasibility of a district-owned vs a contracted pupil transportation system. Various aspects of school transportation were analyzed by their relationship to safety, control, service, and cost. (Author/MLF)

Describes a way to compare the costs of operating or contracting buses by breaking down total expenses and comparing specific costs both for each type of service (such as regular transportation to school, special education, or athletic events) and for all types of expenditures ranging from maintenance to preparing payrolls. (Author/JM)

The expertise and resources of contracted student transportation can free up school administrators' time and attention. When school boards are considering contracting student transportation, the school business official's role is crucial in taking an objective look at all the policy options. Cites three sources for additional information. (MLF)

Contracting for noneducational services is standard operating procedure in many school districts. Private contractors are involved in transportation, food service, maintenance, and even, in rare cases, instruction. Before deciding to contract out, school boards should examine improvement to school-run operations before making a final decision.…