School districts face a back-to-school math problem: The high price of diesel
School districts across the U.S. are struggling to manage transportation budgets due to a significant spike in diesel fuel prices. Many districts are forced to consolidate bus routes and adjust schedules to avoid cutting educational programs.
Why it matters
Rising fuel costs directly impact the operational efficiency of public education, forcing administrators to choose between transportation logistics and classroom resources.
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As the new school year kicks off, school districts are facing a challenging math problem: the high cost of diesel.
The price of a gallon of diesel is up nearly $2 compared with this time last year. That is meaningful for schools, considering that around 90% of the United States' 480,000 school buses run on diesel.
Nationally, the average price was $5.62 for a gallon as of Wednesday, according to AAA. This time last year, it cost $3.70.
School districts nationwide have been wrestling with the issue since spring, when the war with Iran started and fuel prices rose. A May survey produced by organizations that represent school superintendents and bus companies found that more than half the districts surveyed said diesel prices were already pushing them over budget.
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