Additional IPS schools added to bus tracking program

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – A pilot program launched for the Indianapolis Public Schools Transportation Department is helping families keep track of their students.

The program is an app called “Here Comes the Bus.” The app will show an IPS bus in real time, letting you know when it will arrive for morning pick up and when it will drop your child off. The information will help families plan their morning routine and reduce the time a child spends outside waiting on a bus.

The route information comes from tablets operated by bus drivers.

The pilot program began earlier this year at the following schools – Center for Inquiry School, Francis W. Parker School, Lew Wallace and Shortridge High School. Now, the district plans to add seven additional schools, including SUPER School, Christian Park School, Center for Inquiry, Butler Lab School, Nicholson Performing Arts School, Sidener Academy for High Ability Students and Stephen Foster School.

Wayne Township is another districts using the app.

IPS says that over 50 buses will be equipped with this technology.

The app is free of charge and parents will be given access to only their student’s information with a private ID. The information can also be tracked through the website. IPS will contact families as the service rolls out to additional schools.