School to Buy Bus

During Cascade’s school board meeting on January 21, a proposal to replace the aging "Badger Van" sparked discussion among board members. The aging vehicle, which is a critical tool for transporting students to various activities, is now plagued with safety issues, including malfunctioning doors and inadequate storage space.

The existing vehicle, used heavily for transporting students to extracurricular events, has been described as nearing the end of its service life. Issues such as cramped seating, inadequate storage, and mechanical failures have made it increasingly impractical. "Students have to crawl over seats to get in and out," one board member noted, citing safety and usability concerns.

The proposed replacement is a 14-passenger vehicle that would meet modern safety standards and not require a CDL-licensed driver, addressing the district's ongoing shortage of certified drivers. This option offers greater passenger capacity and built-in storage for equipment like golf clubs, track gear, and other athletic items.

The new vehicle comes with a price tag of $121,900. However, alternatives such as a standard van or trailer-equipped vehicle were discussed. While less expensive, these options raise concerns about safety, storage capacity, and additional costs for modifications like installing trailers.

One community member and former bus driver for Cascade School highlighted the safety advantages of dual rear-wheel vehicles, which are more stable on icy roads. "They have a wider stance and are way safer than the current van," they stated. However, others expressed concerns over the long-term cost-effectiveness of such a vehicle.

Safety was a recurring theme throughout the discussion. "The steering wheel feels loose, and it’s difficult to drive in windy conditions," one staff member recounted about the current bus. Additionally, limited storage for sports equipment and gear has repeatedly caused logistical challenges.

The proposed bus offers improved storage solutions, individual seatbelts, and safer driving dynamics. However, it lacks features like four-wheel drive, which would significantly increase the cost and delivery time due to limited manufacturing availability.

The board passed the motion unanimously, and the school intends to purchase this new vehicle to carry students to various activities in the coming months.