Plumas Unified School District (PUSD) plans to sell most of its unused and nonworking school buses. Richard DuVarney, the state-appointed administrator, approved the sale on July 22 during a brief special meeting. The decision came with little discussion or public input.
Jordan Blanton, the new chief business official, recommended the sale through PUSD resolution 1703. The resolution covers 19 buses: nine diesel, nine propane, and one electric. The estimated value of the buses totals about $493,000. Selling the buses will help the district reduce fuel expenses and overtime pay for drivers since there are fewer drivers available.
DuVarney noted that many of the buses are old and have high mileage. The district will keep four small buses for special education and two large buses for field trips. The buses will not serve athletic events, as detailed in DuVarney’s July 23 letter to parents and community members.
PUSD stopped most bus services in early 2026. The district cut general busing from the budget for the 2026-27 school year. Starting August 19, only special education students will receive bus transportation.
Stephanie Shatto, former interim business official, reported in March that only 200 out of 1,500 students (13%) used bus service. Many parents and educators voiced concerns about how the cuts would affect families, especially in a large rural county. District 2 county supervisor Kevin Goss urged the district to reconsider, emphasizing the travel challenges students face.
DuVarney linked the cuts to a $9.5 million budget gap. Closing Pioneer Elementary School and cutting transportation services are among the largest reductions. DuVarney said these steps improve the district’s financial outlook and help align staffing ratios. He pledged to focus on rebuilding systems and strengthening services for students.
Plumas Transit saw more school-age children using its buses late in the 2025-26 school year. Coordinator Kelly McElwain said children under eight must ride with an adult and follow behavior rules. Some charter school students already use Plumas Transit.
Plumas Transit schedules are available online and at bus stops. Riders should expect delays on the Portola route due to road construction. McElwain advises children to carry lights when waiting for buses after dark so drivers can see them. Fares for Plumas Transit currently remain free.
The district’s move to sell buses and cut service raises questions about how families will manage school transportation. How will this affect attendance and daily routines
