Lee County Schools Achieve 98% On-Time Bus Rate

The School District of Lee County achieved a 98% on-time morning bus arrival rate during the 2025-2026 school year, jumping 15 percentage points from the prior year while transporting 14,000 additional students daily.

The district moved 61,416 students per day this year, a 31% increase in ridership. Buses in May, the final month of the academic year, arrived on time 99% of mornings. The district defines on-time as arrival within 30 minutes before the morning bell or afternoon dismissal.

Afternoon pickups improved more sharply, climbing 28 percentage points to 85% on-time performance.

The Safe Start Initiative, launched this school year, staggered start times across three tiers: high schools and K-8 schools, elementary schools, and middle schools. The tiered system allowed drivers to complete one route before starting the next, maximizing the existing fleet's capacity.

"When a bus runs on time, a child walks into the classroom ready to learn," said David Newlan, Chief of Safety, Security, and Fleet Operations. "Moving from 83% to 98% in the morning while absorbing 14,000 additional riders means nearly every student in Lee County now experiences reliable transportation."

The transportation department plans continued route refinement to reach 100% on-time performance across all schools.