RPS 205 Launches Bus Tracking App

Rockford Public Schools has launched a mobile app for K-12 families to track bus routes in real-time.

The app, called Stopfinder, is a two-way communication platform to allow the Transportation Department to share a student’s transportation schedule, announcements, and updates directly with families and caregivers. Transportation staff can target messages to parents/guardians of students on specific routes, from a school or within specific areas of the city.

Users can customize alerts about their student’s bus route and location. Use the mobile app to:      

• View student’s daily transportation assignments.   
• Receive transportation notifications and updates, like late bus routes or collision notifications.   
• Track your student’s bus to see when it’s near your neighborhood or bus stop.   
• Check to see that your student’s bus arrives at the bus stop – and school – on time.   
• Securely share your student’s schedule with caregivers.     
• Securely share your student’s schedule with your student. For example, a middle or high school student can track their own bus to know if it’s on time or running late.

The primary contact – parent/guardian – for each bus rider in RPS 205 will receive an email to register and access their student’s bus route information. They must also download the Stopfinder mobile app from the App Store or Google Play. Learn more at Stopfinder.com. 

“This mobile app gives families additional information – and peace of mind – about their student’s location and their school bus status and location,” said Executive Director of Transportation Mike Slife. “It’s a tool our families have wanted for years, and it illustrates another key investment we’ve made in our drivers, and in turn, our students and families.”

Please note:    

• Stopfinder requires parents/guardians to register with their specific invitation.    
• Once registration is complete and the app is downloaded, a parent/guardian can add other subscribers, such as another parent/guardian, student or caregiver. Subscribers can be added/updated or removed anytime.
• If you have not received the email/registration information, send an email to Busapp@rps205.com.

Drive in RPS 205: Rockford Public Schools has immediate openings for bus drivers. Visit rps205.com/bus-drivers, or text JOINRPS to 815-393-1589 to learn more about transportation job openings and benefits.