BISMARCK, ND (KXNET) — During the January 13 meeting, the Bismarck School Board voted to adopt a two-tier bus system. In December, the board got a recommendation from the Bismarck Public Schools (BPS) Operational Excellence Committee and leaders to adopt the system. The system staggers school start times for different groups of kids and will maximize efficiency by allowing buses to run multiple routes. This two-tier system will go into effect for the 2025-2026 school year. This is a response to the ongoing challenges transportation is facing, including bus driver shortages, budget constraints, lengthy bus routes, and delayed pickup. In order to explore solutions, BPS hired Transpar, a consulting firm that specializes in school transportation, to evaluate operations, and Transpr found that a two-tier system was a possible solution. Temporary entrance for Bismarck Public Works Under this model, elementary students will be picked up and dropped off first, followed by secondary students. While this means that changes to school start and end times will happen, it will improve efficiency and reliability by reducing the number of buses and drivers that are needed. Expected benefits include students being on the bus for a shorter amount of time, as well as improved safety with the separation of elementary and secondary students. Expected start times will be 7:50 a.m. for elementary and between 8:30-8:40 a.m. for secondary, start times and routes will be finalized in the near future so that everyone is informed. BPS recognizes the potential impact on families, and they hosted community forums, and input sessions during PTO meetings where videos were shared. This feedback showed a strong interest in making sure childcare providers and after-school programs can accommodate the change. BPS is working with partners to make sure needs are met. When the process is finished, the district will share more information, and BPS will continue to share updates during this transition. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Today's Top Stories SIGN UP NOW