SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- The increase of gas prices has affected the lives of many in Michiana even including our schools.
Diesel prices have increased by over $2 a gallon per Gas Buddy and while these prices have impacted everything from travel to the food supply chain, many don't realize how it's impacting schools.
Senate Enrolled Act 1, which was a property tax and local finance reform package that tightened school budgets starting in 2025, many local districts are now facing a new challenge of discovering how to transport the next generation with less funds and higher prices.
Elkhart Community School Corporation serves around 11,000 students with a fleet of about 120 yellow diesel buses and 15 white gas buses, some travel as far as 175 miles a day.
If funding keeps getting tighter the district will have to get creative with how to transport their students.