UCSD Families,
As we finalize preparations for the start of the school year, I want to share some important information about our Student Transportation system and related updates. This year, we will not be using Yellow School Buses or contracting out transportation services. Instead, we’ll be utilizing three white 14-passenger vehicles to cover all routes and stops. Although these vehicles currently lack UCSD signage, we’ve added temporary safety warning signs on the rear, and permanent signage will be installed soon.
Given the use of these three vehicles, our routes and schedules have been adjusted. You can find the updated routes and schedules on our website, UCSD.net, under the "Parents" section, then "Student Transportation." Each vehicle will run 2-3 routes every morning and afternoon. Rest assured, our schools are ready to help students board the correct vehicle in the afternoons.
As we gather more information about the number of students at each stop, we may need to further adjust the schedules and routes during the first 2-3 weeks. We’ll keep you informed of any changes.
While the routes and schedules have changed, the names and locations of previously used stops remain the same. We have updated the stop numbers and maps to reflect these changes. You can view the new map HERE or on our website under "Parents" and "Student Transportation."
Passenger expectations remain largely the same, with safety as our top priority. One important change is that all passengers are now required to wear seat belts at all times. You can review the updated Passenger Expectations HERE or on our website.
To ensure the safety of our children, we ask that everyone drives cautiously during the mornings and afternoons. Our vehicles will make frequent stops, and when they do, they will activate their flashing lights and two top rear lights for added visibility. Please be sure to stop when you see these lights.
The Unalaska Public Safety Department will have a visible presence during our transportation times to assist drivers, particularly at our two most challenging stop areas: the 3-Way intersection near Alpha Welding and the 4-Way stop near UCS/PCR.
We understand that change can be a bit confusing at first, but we are confident that these updates to our 2024-25 Student Transportation will make the system more consistent, efficient, safe, and comfortable.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me or your school principals.
Sincerely,
Kim Hanisch