STEO 2026 Transportation Updates – Getting Ready for September

Johnstown – STEO is announcing transportation eligibility and service changes that will come into effect for both elementary and secondary school students across the region for the 2026-2027 school year.

Recently, the Ministry of Education introduced standardized transportation criteria across the province that includes changes to the transportation funding formula to ensure a consistent, fiscally responsible and sustainable approach. As a result, there will be changes to transportation service areas and walk-to-stop distances for students serviced by STEO that bring the region into alignment with the standard in place across much of the province.

These updates mean that some students who currently have access to bus transportation will be considered within walking distance to school, have a change to their bus stop location, and/or will have a longer bus ride time. The revised distances are consistent with the standards elsewhere in Ontario and will ensure reasonable distances for the ages of all students in the region.

Outline of Service Changes:

Starting September 2026, the following changes will take effect:

*Walking distance between home address and school will be applied consistently to students in grades 7 and 8, regardless of the school setting they attend.

Information, Programming and Resources
Impacted families will receive more information detailing their specific circumstances, resources and supports leading up to the start of the 2026 school year, including:

Summer safety and support programming with our trusted community partners.
A new centralized online support hub on our website which will provide families with a single access point for medical transportation and exceptional circumstances requests, hazard and safety concerns, as well as clear guidance on transportation eligibility, application processes, and more.

Information about our Hazard Assessment Tool, which will evaluate student walking routes, align with industry best practices and local research.

For more information please visit: https://www.steo.ca/2026-transportation-updates/