New Data: Partnering with HopSkipDrive Means Happier Parents and Families

At HopSkipDrive, we understand that reliable and efficient transportation is essential for schools and districts to ensure students arrive safely and on time. Recent surveys* of parents whose children are riding with HopSkipDrive again this school year and those whose children no longer use our service revealed a significant difference: Parents whose children continue to ride with us report higher satisfaction with their child’s commute, shorter commutes, and fewer missed school days and activities. 

The results of our surveys reveal that schools and districts partnering with HopSkipDrive can benefit from increased parent satisfaction, shorter commutes, and later wake-up times and fewer missed activities for students — ultimately creating a better overall experience for families. Read on to learn more about why HopSkipDrive should be your school or district’s transportation partner.

Happier parents, happier school communities

According to our survey results, nearly 80% of parents whose children still ride with HopSkipDrive reported being satisfied with their children’s current commute, compared to only 65% of parents whose children are using another method of getting to school. Even more impressive, 80% of caregivers of riders who are still riding with us this year gave HopSkipDrive a four- or five-star rating, where five is “excellent.” 

For many parents who no longer use HopSkipDrive, one sentiment was clear: They wish they could return to using our service. As one caregiver from Spokane shared: “He is taking the bus currently; however, [we] would much rather be using HopSkipDrive because he has to be on the bus super long and it’s literally over a mile away from the house.” Similarly, another caregiver from Simi Valley noted, “We miss HopSkipDrive. It was far better last year for [my child than the new option] this year.”

What does this mean for schools and districts? Happy parents lead to stronger school communities. When families are satisfied with transportation, it reduces stress and frustration, creating a more positive environment for everyone involved.

Shorter commutes, more focused students

For parents who continue to use HopSkipDrive in the 2024–2025 school year, the majority of children (nearly 52%) have commutes that last between 10 to 30 minutes, and only 6% experience commutes longer than an hour. These long commutes are often the case for students experiencing homelessness or in foster care, who are living outside district boundaries. In contrast, families who no longer use our service reported longer commutes more frequently.

How does this benefit schools? Shorter commutes mean students arrive at school more refreshed and ready to learn. A caregiver from San Pedro emphasized the impact of the quality of HopSkipDrive’s service, saying, “We do not use HopSkipDrive this year. Their service was great. I would like to use them again.” Schools partnering with HopSkipDrive can rest assured that students will spend less time commuting and more time focused on their education.

Later wake-up times for better mornings

Parents report that the majority of children (60%) who are still riding with HopSkipDrive this school year are able to wake up to start their school day after 6:30 a.m., with 28% reporting they are able to wake after 7 a.m. In contrast, 24% of parents whose children are no longer riding with HopSkipDrive reported their children need to wake up before 6 a.m. to start their school day, likely due to long commutes and poor routes.

Why should schools care? Research suggests that delaying school start times can lead to students getting more sleep, performing better academically, and experiencing a range of improvements in their mental and physical health. HopSkipDrive’s dependability means students can start their day less rushed, making mornings easier for both families and schools.

Fewer missed school days and activities

According to our survey results, families whose children are no longer being transported by HopSkipDrive report a higher percentage of missed school days and extracurricular activities due to transportation challenges. Missing school and losing out on the opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities can have a cascading effect on students’ lives, hindering academic progress, limiting social interaction, and potentially affecting their overall well-being.

How does this impact schools and districts? Fewer missed days mean better attendance rates, helping to tackle the chronic absenteeism crisis around the country. Better attendance benefits both students and schools. HopSkipDrive’s reliable service keeps students on track so they don’t miss out on critical learning or activities.

Why HopSkipDrive is the right partner for schools and districts

The results from our recent surveys highlight some of the many reasons why schools and districts should choose HopSkipDrive for their transportation needs. Higher parent satisfaction, shorter commute times, and fewer missed school days are just a few of the advantages that HopSkipDrive offers.

By partnering with us, your school or district can provide families with the reliable, safe transportation they need — leading to happier parents, more engaged students, and a smoother school year.

*Source of all data presented: HopSkipDrive caregiver surveys, September 2024. 

Want to learn more about how HopSkipDrive can support your school or district?