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Denver Students Gain More Control Over School Transportation Following Policy Changes

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  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Wednesday, August 20th 2025 at 21:32 GMT by WDTN Dayton
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Denver Public Schools (DPS) students are poised to experience significant changes in how they access school transportation following a recent approval by the district's Board of Education. The new policies, implemented after years of student advocacy and pilot programs, aim to provide greater flexibility and choice while addressing concerns about safety and equity within the system. This shift marks a departure from the traditionally rigid busing model that has long characterized DPS transportation.

The core of the changes revolves around two key initiatives: "On My Way" passes for high school students and expanded access to ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft for middle and high schoolers. Previously, many students felt trapped by fixed routes and schedules, limiting their ability to participate in extracurricular activities or pursue part-time jobs. The “On My Way” pass program, initially piloted in select schools, provides eligible high school students with a reusable transit card loaded with funds for RTD (Regional Transportation District) buses and light rail. This allows them greater freedom to travel independently and access opportunities beyond the immediate vicinity of their school.

The expansion of ride-sharing options is another significant development. Recognizing that not all students have reliable access to public transportation or live within walking distance, DPS has partnered with Uber and Lyft to offer subsidized rides for middle and high school students traveling to and from school, as well as for extracurricular activities. This program, also initially piloted, aims to bridge the gap in accessibility, particularly for students living in areas underserved by traditional bus routes. The subsidy is tiered based on income level, ensuring that lower-income families benefit most significantly.

The journey to these policy changes has been a long one, fueled by persistent student activism. For years, students have voiced concerns about the limitations and inequities of the existing transportation system. A key figure in this movement is senior activist Maya Smith, who spearheaded several campaigns advocating for increased student agency over their school travel. "We felt like we were being treated as cargo," Smith explained to local news outlets during a protest last year. “We wanted more control over how we got to and from school so we could participate fully in our education and community.”

The pilot programs, which began in the 2022-23 school year, provided valuable data on student usage patterns and safety concerns. While initial reports showed high enthusiasm for both "On My Way" passes and ride-sharing subsidies, they also highlighted challenges related to rider safety and responsible use of the services. To address these concerns, DPS has implemented several safeguards. For example, students using ride-sharing services are required to register their accounts with the district and designate approved pick-up and drop-off locations. Ride data is monitored for unusual activity, and students receive educational materials on safe riding practices.

The new policies also incorporate a focus on equity. Recognizing that some students face greater barriers to transportation than others – including those living in low-income neighborhoods or with disabilities – DPS has prioritized outreach and support services to ensure equitable access to the programs. This includes providing information sessions in multiple languages, offering assistance with account registration, and working with community organizations to address transportation needs.

However, the changes haven't been without their critics. Some parents have expressed concerns about safety, particularly regarding ride-sharing services, while others question the financial sustainability of the expanded programs. DPS officials acknowledge these concerns and emphasize that ongoing monitoring and evaluation will be crucial to ensuring the success of the new policies. They are committed to making adjustments as needed based on data and feedback from students, parents, and community members.

The implementation of these changes represents a significant shift in Denver Public Schools’ approach to student transportation. By empowering students with greater choice and flexibility, DPS aims to create a more equitable and accessible system that supports their academic success and overall well-being. The long-term impact of these policies remains to be seen, but the initial response from students has been overwhelmingly positive, signaling a promising step towards a more student-centered approach to education in Denver. Further evaluation will focus on ridership numbers, safety incidents, cost effectiveness, and most importantly, student satisfaction and perceived benefits. The district plans to release comprehensive reports annually to track progress and identify areas for improvement.