Whenever a school district considers changing bus stops, bus routes, or bell times, the public reaction is often decidedly unequal to the magnitude of the changes proposed. Unfortunately, the severity of continued budget crises has compelled many school districts to make major changes to their transportation systems. While additional cuts in service are likely for at least the foreseeable future, a little planning can help school districts avoid downstream concerns regarding liability and other risk management issues. Being aware of the legal, financial, and operational consequences of potential changes will help ensure that districts receive maximum value from their transportation program without jeopardizing safety or exposing the school district to liability. This article discusses techniques for managing transportation costs.