RIDE helps WJUSD Move Toward Full Electrification
In a significant move toward sustainable student transportation , the Woodland Joint Unified School District ( WJUSD ) in Woodland , California , has embarked on an ambitious project to integrate electric school buses into its fleet . This initiative , in partnership with RIDE , the California manufacturer and supplier of the new buses , underscores the district ’ s commitment to environmental stewardship and positions it at the forefront of the green transportation movement within educational institutions . The journey towards electrification began approximately five years ago when WJUSD recognized the increasing availability of funding for electric vehicles in California . Tony Peregrina , the director of transportation for WJUSD , recalls the initial considerations : “ About five years ago , the funding started flowing into or being made available in the state of California ,” he said . However , the transition was not without its challenges . One of the primary concerns was the limited range of early electric bus models , which posed significant logistical issues for the district ’ s extensive routes . “ A lot of our routes are over a hundred miles a day ,” Peregrina said . “ So the limited range that we had available five years ago made it a very scary option for any of us .” Additionally , the state mandated the decommissioning of older , more polluting buses , requiring them to be destroyed to prevent further environmental impact . This stipulation added another layer of complexity to the decision-making process .
Strategic Planning and Implementation To address these challenges , WJUSD undertook a comprehensive planning process in collaboration with RIDE . The district focused on selecting RIDE ’ s electric bus models that offered maximum range and reliability , ensuring they could meet the demands of daily routes without compromising service quality . Infrastructure development was also a critical component , with the district investing in adequate charging systems to support the new fleet . Through diligent efforts , WJUSD secured grants and vouchers from the state , facilitating the acquisition of 21 RIDE electric buses . “ The dream is to have 30 buses in our fleet that are electrified and the rest be fossil-fueled just in case ,” Peregrina added .
This balanced approach ensures operational resilience , allowing the district to maintain transportation services even in unforeseen circumstances such as power outages . As of early 2025 , WJUSD has made significant strides in its electrification initiative with RIDE . The district celebrated the arrival of its first electric school buses , manufactured and delivered by RIDE , with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on January 22 . The event , held at Whitehead Elementary School , marked the beginning of a new era in student transportation for the district . Currently , the district ’ s fleet includes two RIDE ‘ Dreamer ’ Type D electric buses , with ten more expected to arrive soon . Additionally , nine RIDE ‘ Achiever ’ Type A electric buses are on the way , bringing the total to 21 electric buses . The district plans to have all these buses operational by April 1 , 2025 . To optimize the use of the new RIDE electric buses , WJUSD plans to stagger their deployment . Initially , the district will use electric buses three days a week , alternating with fossil-fueled buses on the remaining days . This strategy ensures that all vehicles remain in good working condition and allows the district to assess the performance of the electric buses under various operating conditions .
Training and Adaptation The transition to RIDE electric buses necessitated comprehensive training programs for both drivers and maintenance staff . Over the
The ribbon-cutting event held at Whitehead Elementary School marked the beginning of WJUSD ’ s transition to electric vehicles .
past five years , WJUSD personnel have attended various conferences and workshops to familiarize themselves with the fundamentals of electric vehicles . With the arrival of the new RIDE buses , the district has arranged for manufacturer-specific training to ensure staff are well-equipped to operate and maintain the new fleet . Feedback from the transportation team has been overwhelmingly positive . Drivers appreciate the design and handling of the new RIDE buses , noting features such as improved mirrors , expansive windshields , and a sturdy feel on the road . Maintenance staff are also optimistic , anticipating reduced upkeep due to the simpler mechanics of RIDE electric buses compared to their diesel counterparts .
The Path Toward Full Electrification By proactively addressing challenges and strategically planning the integration of RIDE electric buses , the district serves as a model for others aiming to reduce their environmental footprint . As the district continues to expand its electric fleet with RIDE , Peregrina said , it remains committed to providing safe , reliable , and eco-friendly transportation for its students . The successful implementation of this initiative not only benefits the local community but also contributes to global efforts in combating climate change .
14 | SCHOOL-BUSRIDE . COM | MARCH 2025