by Emily Staton

After receiving a government grant covering the bus cost and charging infrastructure, Pocola Public Schools recently introduced a fleet of seven electric school buses to their transportation department. 

Herby Anderson, the Transportation and Maintenance Director for Pocola Schools, is excited about introducing these electric buses to the district. He describes their suspension, adjustable passenger seats, and the driver's air seat as luxurious additions that provide a more comfortable and safer ride. 

The electric buses can travel up to 80 miles on a full charge and reach a maximum speed of 65 miles per hour, perfect for the Pocola School District's routes, which are all 45 miles or less. Additionally, these buses utilize their braking system to regenerate energy, enabling them to recharge their batteries while traveling efficiently.

Anderson believes the fuel savings and emissions reduction in the upcoming years will be significant, as the school district will no longer have to purchase diesel for seven buses.

Introducing electric buses to Pocola Public Schools is a significant step towards reducing their carbon footprint. The school district hopes to continue improving and innovating its transportation system to provide its students with a more comfortable, efficient, and safe ride.

Arkansas Valley Electric proudly provides electricity to Pocola Schools.