HopSkipDrive provides alternative option for getting students to school arrives in Kern

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) – A new transportation company is expanding into Kern County to offer alternative options to get all students to school, especially those in foster care or experiencing homelessness.

HopSkipDrive is partnering with Kern County Department of Human Services as the company starts providing service in Kern County.

The company’s small vehicle network and driver availability will fill the gaps in transportation access for the 2024 – 2025 school year.

According to Director of Kern County Department of Human Services, Lito Morillo, HopSkipDrive is a strong partner to help local students.

“This service will support local foster youth by filling in the transportation gaps and allowing children to remain in their school of origin no matter where they live,” Morillo said. “This will help lessen the disruptive impact of entering foster care and allows children to quickly return to familiar classrooms, faces and friends. We believe this transportation solution is the right step toward fostering educational equity and success for our foster youth.”

For some students in foster care or experiencing homelessness, traditional transportation, such as the ubiquitous yellow school buses, don’t work for those whose location may change often.

Rides can be arranged with eight-hours’ notice, offering students a safe and accessible way to get to school.

The company is also hiring local CareDrivers to expand its driving capabilities.

HopSkipDrive is looking for CareDrivers who have at least five years of caregiving experience who must pass a 15-point certification process and rigorous vetting.

Those who pass the application process can earn up to $50 per ride, depending on a variety of factors.

To learn more, visit the HopSkipDrive website.

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