The St Joseph School Board has opted for a new provider of student transportation. The board selected the Missouri-based Apple Bus Company from among six bidders to provide service beginning July 1.

First Student has been driving school buses here since 2007. About 5,200 students ride the bus to school each day.

The contract costs the school district approximately $3 million.

“Apple has a great reputation for customer service and for finding efficiencies in the system,” said Beery Johnson, Director of Transportation for SJSD.

Johnson pointed out that Apple is family owned and located in Cleveland, MO, some 87 miles south of St. Joseph.

“The owner and many support personnel are just a little over an hour away,” he said. “With Apple, we will get more support at a higher level than with any other company.”

The new provider has a first class maintenance program, and an outstanding safety record, Johnson said.

He pointed out that Apple will consider all First Student drivers for employment.

“They have an excellent reputation,” said Johnson. “We believe our patrons will be pleased with our choice.”