Snowline JUSD Awarded $802,586 Grant For Electric School Buses And Charging Infrastructure

PHELAN, Calif. (VVNG.com) — Snowline Joint Unified School District has been awarded $802,586 through the Mojave Desert Air Quality Management District’s Community Air Protection Program to purchase two electric school buses and install charging infrastructure.

District officials said the grant is the result of years of collaboration and a shared commitment to improving student transportation. The funding will allow Snowline to modernize a portion of its transportation fleet without placing an additional financial burden on local taxpayers.

The district serves an area spanning more than 250 square miles and said the investment will help maintain safe and dependable transportation for students while introducing new technology into its fleet.

“This is a tremendous opportunity for Snowline,” said Superintendent Dr. Ryan Holman. “Any time we can bring nearly $1 million in grant funding back to our community, it’s a win for our students and taxpayers. This project demonstrates what can happen when dedicated staff pursue opportunities that strengthen our district and position us for the future.”

Officials with the Mojave Desert Air Quality Management District said the project reflects a shared commitment to improving air quality throughout the community.

“We are pleased to be able to partner with Snowline on such an important community project,” said Mojave Desert Air Quality Management District APCO Brad Poiriez. “The district’s commitment to air quality management has provided a cleaner, and safer, route to school for the students, parents, and community of Phelan.”

Snowline Transportation Director Danny Medford led the grant effort, working closely with the Mojave Desert Air Quality Management District throughout the application process.

“We’re excited to add these buses to our fleet and continue expanding the tools available to safely transport our students every day. I’m incredibly proud of our team and grateful to Mojave Air Quality Management District for partnering with us throughout this process.” said Danny Medford, Director of Transportation.

As part of the project, Snowline’s transportation department will receive manufacturer-certified training covering vehicle operation, preventive maintenance, battery systems, charging equipment and safety procedures. District officials said the training will prepare transportation staff to maintain the new buses while continuing to provide reliable service for students and families.

Amanda Koncur of the Mojave Desert Air Quality Management District said the partnership highlights the long-term commitment between both agencies.

“We’re excited to celebrate this milestone with Snowline Joint Unified School District,” said Amanda Koncur. “This project has been years in the making, and we’re proud to support a district that remained committed throughout the entire process. Partnerships like this help school districts access funding that may not otherwise be available.”

According to the district, the electric school buses offer quieter operation, fewer routine engine maintenance requirements, modern onboard technology and zero-emissions. While the two buses represent only a portion of Snowline’s transportation fleet, officials said they will provide valuable experience with emerging transportation technology while the district continues operating its conventional buses.

Pictured during the grant presentation were Amanda Koncur and Jorge Camacho of the Mojave Desert Air Quality Management District alongside Snowline Joint Unified School District Director of Transportation Danny Medford.

As the buses and charging infrastructure are delivered and installed, Snowline’s transportation team will continue training and preparing for deployment to ensure students continue receiving the safe, reliable transportation families have come to expect.

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