The important role of the yellow school bus was featured in the second episode of PBS’ four-part series "America Revealed" that focused on the nation's intricate public transportation infrastructure.

Alternative fuel technology is still a foreign concept to some student transporters who may not be familiar with propane, compressed natural gas (CNG) or hybrid-electric school buses. The good news is that school bus OEMs, “green” suppliers and trade organizations will provide the necessary training.

The busing of children to and from school and their education in the classroom has been, at least in the public’s view, two somewhat related but basically separate activities.

Nearly $30 million of federal clean air grants are available this month, and state and federal agencies that oversee the dissemination of these funds are urging school districts to sharpen their pencils and prepare to compete for the coveted windfalls with the private industry and other sectors of public transportation.