March 5, 2023 – Decatur Public Schools high school students can now travel for free on City of Decatur buses at any time, as long as they have a valid DPS student ID as part of an agreement signed last month between the city and the Board of Education.
“This new agreement with the City of Decatur means our students can not only get to and from school, but to their jobs, practices, appointments, and other activities,” said DPS Superintendent Dr. Rochelle Clark. “We hope that this agreement will help open doors and make a major difference for both our students and our families.”
DPS and the City of Decatur entered into an intergovernmental agreement (IGA), approved by both the DPS Board of Education and the Decatur City Council last month. The agreement allows all DPS high school students to travel anytime on City of Decatur buses, with no restrictions, for free, as long as they have a valid DPS student ID. This agreement opens access to free transportation for high school students involved in after-school activities, employment, appointments, and other needs throughout the City.
“We are excited to continue growing these partnerships with our educational institutions,” said Lacie Elzy, City of Decatur Transit Administrator. “Agreements like this are the first step in eliminating transportation barriers and promoting equity for the families in our community.”
Previously, students would receive tickets to ride city buses only during school hours. As part of the agreement, DPS will pay the Decatur Public Transit System biannually for bus rides.
DPS students must have a valid student ID in order to use the free bus service. Students should contact their school principal or front office if they need a new ID issued.
