The San Diego Unified School District is relying on strategic fuel purchasing and on-site storage to manage diesel costs and keep its school bus fleet running amid fluctuations in fuel prices.

The district purchases fuel at preferential rates through a county purchasing program and has storage facilities with a capacity of up to 60,000 gallons. This allows the district to buy larger quantities when prices are more favorable.

San Diego Unified spends approximately $1.5 million annually on fuel. Its fleet includes 315 diesel-powered school buses and 43 electric buses, along with 23 additional electric vehicles.

According to the figures provided, approximately 4,651 students use the district’s transportation services each day, out of a total student population of nearly 95,000.

Expanding the use of electric buses is another way the district is working to reduce its reliance on conventional fuels. However, the transition requires significant investment in vehicles, charging infrastructure and maintenance.

Fluctuating fuel prices pose a budgetary challenge for school districts, which must cover transportation expenses while maintaining essential services for students.

By combining strategic fuel purchases, storage capacity and the gradual adoption of electric vehicles, San Diego Unified aims to manage transportation costs and maintain its school bus operations.