One Chicago parent has launched the “Piggyback Network,” an app that lets parents book rides with other parents traveling in the same direction.
Drivers can earn money and credits for future rides.
Companies like HopSkipDrive and Kango also offer alternatives to traditional school bus services, offering more extensive driver screening and additional support for children with disabilities.
School bus service has been declining, with only about 28% of U.S. students taking a school bus, down from about 36% in 2017.