Back To School: Gwinnett School Buses Hit the Road as New Year Begins

They’re big. They’re yellow. And starting Monday, they’ll be everywhere.

🚌 Why It Matters: More than 135,000 students rely on Gwinnett County’s buses to get to school every day. That means parents, commuters, and neighborhoods need to brace for the early-morning and mid-afternoon traffic that comes with it.

🚦 What’s Happening: Gwinnett County Public Schools’ bus fleet is rolling out dry runs ahead of the school year—giving drivers time to rehearse their routes before students climb aboard.

• From July 28 to August 1, buses will run full morning and afternoon routes—with school names clearly displayed.
• Drivers have completed training and safety checks; each bus will be cleaned and disinfected twice daily during the school year.

⏱ Between the Lines: Expect delays during the first three weeks of school. New riders, unfamiliar routines, and extra safety protocols mean routes may run behind.

• The school district recommends students arrive at stops 15 minutes early.
• Afternoon buses are especially prone to delays as drivers confirm each child exits at the correct stop.

👨‍👩‍👧 Safety Starts at Home: Officials are asking parents to prep students for the bus ride—and the bus stop.

• Know your child’s stop location before school starts.
• For young students, especially K-2, teach them to speak up if they’re unsure about getting off.
• The school system encourages families to establish a bus routine on day one to avoid confusion later.

🗺 The Numbers Behind the Wheel: Gwinnett’s bus system is a national heavyweight.

• 2,006 buses serving over 45,000 stops
• 129,000+ miles driven each day—five times around the equator
• Third-largest student transporter in the U.S.

📞 If Something Goes Wrong: If your child misses their stop or doesn’t get off the bus:

• Call the school first.
• If there’s no answer, reach Gwinnett County Public Schools Transportation at 770-513-6686.
• Special education transportation questions? Call 770-513-6881.

📍 Alternate Stops Require Paperwork: By default, kids are picked up and dropped off at the stop nearest their home. To use a different address—for daycare or other needs—parents must file a new “Alternate Address” or “Parent Authorization” form each year. Call 678-226-7036 for help.

The Sources: Gwinnett County Public Schools. [mailerlite_form form_id=44]