Transportation Director Shares How Propane Buses Benefit Special Needs Routes
FRISCO, Texas – An Illinois transportation director shared her experience on how propane-powered school buses brought positive change for students with special needs.
Background and Leadership Experience
Diana Mikelski, recently retired with 32 years in student transportation, served as the director of transportation for Township High School District 211 in Illinois until this summer. She managed 163 buses and 45 vans, transporting nearly 9,000 students across more than 7,700 miles daily.
Challenge That Led to Change
At a Blue Bird-sponsored TSD Conference Lunch and Learn session, Mikelski recalled that during the construction of a new parking lot, the relocated diesel buses caused exhaust fumes to enter a nearby school building when the engines started each morning.
“The principal came running out to alert the drivers,” she remembered.
Transition to Propane
In search of a cleaner and safer fuel, district administrators explored options with neighboring districts and decided to switch to propane. With a $1 million district budget approval and additional EPA grant support, the team acquired 15 propane buses.
Mikelski described the transition as a smooth collaboration between Blue Bird, ROUSH CleanTech, AmeriGas, and local service providers.
Summary
The propane bus initiative improved air quality, supported special needs transportation routes, and demonstrated how thoughtful energy choices can enhance both operations and student well-being.
Author’s Summary: One district’s move to propane buses improved air quality, efficiency, and the health of students with special needs through cleaner, smarter energy use.