HopSkipDrive, a technology company dedicated to solving complex transportation challenges with equity, safety, and care, has now expanded its services to Tucson for the upcoming 2024-2025 academic school year. This new option aims to supplement school buses and existing transportation options for students in the area, providing a reliable and safe alternative for school districts and families. With a track record of supporting over 10,000 schools nationwide, HopSkipDrive is trusted to help address local bus driver shortages, on-time arrival issues, budget constraints, and other transportation-related challenges.
CEO and co-founder of HopSkipDrive, Joanna McFarland, expressed her excitement about launching in Tucson, highlighting the company’s commitment to providing reliable rides, industry-leading technology, and a strong focus on safety. CareDrivers, who are experienced caregivers from the Tucson community, undergo thorough vetting processes to ensure the safety and well-being of children in their care. This emphasis on safety and care sets HopSkipDrive apart as a trusted transportation partner for school districts and families.
One of the key benefits of HopSkipDrive is its small vehicle network and dynamic driver availability, which fills gaps in transportation access for students with diverse needs. This flexibility is especially valuable for students who may not be adequately served by traditional school buses and fixed routes, such as those experiencing homelessness, in foster care, or with disabilities. With just eight hours’ notice, rides can be arranged through HopSkipDrive, offering a level of accessibility and reliability that supports schools and students alike.
To meet the growing demand for CareDrivers in Tucson, HopSkipDrive is actively recruiting individuals from the local community. Eligible drivers can earn up to $50 per ride and must have at least five years of caregiving experience, pass a 15-point certification process, and undergo rigorous vetting. Those interested in becoming a CareDriver can apply through the company’s website, contributing to the mission of providing safe and reliable transportation for students in need.
The process of using HopSkipDrive is straightforward and efficient. School districts identify students who require rides, and transportation officials arrange these rides through the company’s online platform. Once a ride is booked, detailed information is provided to organizers, parents, and caregivers, including real-time ride tracking through the HopSkipDrive app. Before the ride begins, both riders and CareDrivers verify each other using a multi-factor verification system, adding an extra layer of security and peace of mind for all parties involved.
HopSkipDrive’s success and impact extend beyond Tucson, with partnerships in 13 states and support for over 10,000 schools nationwide. Since its founding in 2014 by three working mothers, the company has completed more than three million rides covering 61 million miles. This growth and reach demonstrate the effectiveness of HopSkipDrive in addressing transportation challenges and providing safe, reliable, and caring solutions for schools, students, and families across the country.
