GCSD launches new electric buses

If you spot a school bus with a bright blue fender and bumper rolling through Georgetown County, you’re witnessing an exciting new chapter for student transportation in Georgetown County School District.

On Wednesday, February 11, GCSD officially began the soft launch of its new state-owned electric school buses in the Georgetown and Waccamaw attendance zones. The distinctive blue accents identify the buses as part of the District’s new electric fleet — a visible symbol of innovation, sustainability, and progress.

The road to this moment began in 2022, when the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) awarded South Carolina more than $58 million through its Clean School Bus Program rebate competition. Included in the award was funding for Georgetown County School District to receive 16 state-owned electric buses. While the award announcement generated immediate excitement, bringing the buses to Georgetown County required careful planning and coordination over several years. 

Before the buses could arrive, charging infrastructure had to be installed — a process led by the South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) Transportation Department in partnership with local utility providers. GCSD worked closely with SCDE Transportation, the City of Georgetown, and Santee Cooper to determine optimal locations for charging stations at the bus lot at Georgetown High School and the Waccamaw Bus Lot. Only after the charging stations were in place could the District officially receive and begin deploying the electric buses.

Introducing electric buses required more than new vehicles — it required preparation, education, and collaboration. GCSD bus drivers participated in hands-on training sessions to become fully familiar with the operation of electric buses. Training included understanding electric vehicle systems and dashboard indicators, charging procedures and safety protocols, differences in acceleration and braking, including regenerative braking systems, and adjustments to pre-trip and post-trip inspections specific to electric buses. Drivers were able to practice operating the buses in controlled settings before they were placed on student routes, ensuring confidence and comfort behind the wheel.

Transportation and maintenance staff also received specialized instruction on high-voltage safety procedures, battery systems and diagnostics, preventative maintenance unique to electric vehicles, and emergency shut-off protocols. This preparation ensures GCSD has the expertise needed locally to maintain and support the fleet.

In partnership with the City of Georgetown Fire Dept., Midway Fire Rescue, and Georgetown County Emergency Management, GCSD provided information and training to fire and rescue personnel focused on identifying electric bus components, understanding high-voltage awareness and safety zones, proper response procedures in the event of an accident, and battery fire mitigation protocols. This collaboration ensures that first responders are equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to safely respond to any situation involving electric buses.

GCSD’s electric fleet includes 16 buses total — eight serving the Georgetown attendance zone and eight serving the Waccamaw attendance zone. The February 11 soft launch allows the District to gradually introduce the buses into daily routes while ensuring drivers, maintenance teams, and transportation staff are fully comfortable with the new technology.

The new electric buses provide reduced emissions for cleaner air, quieter rides for students, lower long-term fuel and maintenance costs, and a modernized transportation fleet. Beyond operational benefits, the buses also serve as a visible example of sustainability in action. Students see innovation at work each day, reinforcing lessons about environmental responsibility and emerging technologies.

The arrival of these buses reflects years of collaboration between federal, state, and local partners and represents a significant investment in the future of Georgetown County students. As the blue-accented buses roll through neighborhoods across Georgetown and Waccamaw, they carry more than students — they carry progress, innovation, and pride for the entire community.

Georgetown County School District is proud to be part of this statewide initiative and looks forward to continuing to modernize and strengthen student transportation across the District.