Dear Bright Rides Families,

We hope this finds you well as you and your family enjoy the beginning of new year. As we approach the second semester of this school year, we wanted to share an important update about the Bright Rides program.  

Bright Rides is a state-funded grant program, and we have been able to offer free rides to students thanks to this grant. The grant was guaranteed for two years, through the end of the 2023-24 school year. However, because the grant is ending, we will not be able to guarantee  transportation through the Bright Rides program next school year— and the Bright Rides program will end at that time. We apologize for any hardships this might cause your family. Please know that your student will continue receiving free transportation through the end of this school year — nothing will change at this time and they will still have their scheduled rides until school is out this summer.

Those involved with the Bright Rides program have been working hard to find other ways to help get students who live in Adams 14 into Denver schools. We are actively working on a transportation task force as well as seeking other financial support in order to continue offering free rides through HopSkipDrive after the state grant ends. We are not sure if those supports will be possible, but we will keep you updated as more information is available.

If you still want rides to a Denver school for the 2024-25 school year, we suggest reaching out to your school directly to see what support and resources might be available to keep your student enrolled and attending there.

Most current students will have a guaranteed spot at their school for next year. Students who are looking for a new school or those who are in a transition grade (such as moving into middle or high school) can participate in the DPS SchoolChoice enrollment window. This is open Jan. 11-Feb. 12, when you can select which Denver school you want your student to attend in 2024-25. Learn more through your school or visit schoolchoice.dpsk12.org.

It has been a pleasure working with you and your students these past two years. We know every child deserves to attend a high-quality school that best fits their needs, and we are continuing to seek out ways to get them there after the Bright Rides program ends.

Please reach out if you have any questions.

Sincerely

Nicholas Martinez & the Bright Rides Team