SPECIAL REPORT


the issue is that, like at many school districts nationwide, Cedar Rapids serves a high number of families that speak a language other than En- glish at home. Wing said the app supports three different languages to help make inroads. “Communication is key,” said Wing. “You al- most have to have a conversation with them and convince them to use it. That’s been one of the biggest barriers for us.” But he added that those parents that are using the app love it.


Getting Technical Keeping parents loving apps, is another thing.


Apps, any technology, really, are only as good as the data they provide. For starters, student transporters should ensure the routing infor- mation that feeds bus location and arrival times is accurate. Both Cohn and Wing indicated that their staff optimized their routing beforehand and worked with their providers to ensure the data was clean. This includes making sure bus stop changes or new students are updated in the system instantaneously.


Scott Wing (above) said Cedar Rapids Community Schools in Iowa has had frequent conversations with parents about the app and even must convince some to use it.


20 School Transportation News • APRIL 2022


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