Registration for Spokane Public Schools yellow bus transportation is now open for the 2026-27 school year.
Students must register for yellow bus transportation before each new school year, even if they are currently riding the bus. Current SPS families can register now through the Zum registration portal.
There is no firm registration deadline, but families are strongly encouraged to register by July 15. Early registration helps us plan routes and bus stop locations so riders can receive route information in a timely manner before school begins.
Families will notice some changes to SPS buses next school year with our name, Spokane Public Schools, on buses rather than Zum, as we prepare for the district’s transition to operating transportation in-house.
SPS is moving proactively in response to state regulation changes that will significantly increase the cost of using a contractor in future years. Bringing transportation in-house allows the district to plan for a reliable, efficient and financially sustainable system while protecting funding for classrooms and student supports.
Our new fleet, which is being leased by Zum to operate in 2026-27, includes air conditioning, interior and exterior cameras, and other updated features to support student safety and service reliability.
Because these buses will be equipped with seat belts, students will be required to wear them as per WAC 392-145-021.
Including seat belts on all SPS buses was a forward-looking investment. School buses are already designed as one of the safest ways for students to travel, with high visibility, stop arms and protective seating. Seat belts provide another layer of protection and prepares SPS for the likelihood that Washington, like many other states, will require seat belts on school buses in the future. Purchasing buses with seat belts now is more cost effective than retrofitting them later.
Looking ahead, transportation changes will also lead to potential bell time changes for the 2027-28 school year. SPS will continue sharing updates as that process moves forward. Families can learn more on the SPS transportation and start times web pages, and can submit transportation questions through our Let's Talk portal.