Starting in September, Brantford Collegiate Institute and Vocational School (BCI) is launching a new pilot program in partnership with Brantford Transit to provide free transit passes for Grade 9 students in West Brant.
This initiative aims to better connect the southwest region of the city with BCI while supporting families and fostering student independence.
The program targets incoming Grade 9 students who reside in West Brant but do not qualify for traditional school transportation. Kevin Graham, superintendent for Grand Erie secondary schools, emphasized the program’s multiple benefits:
“The aim of this project is to support students and families in West Brant attending BCI with an alternative, flexible option for getting to and from school. This project also has the added benefits of building community through a sustainable mode of travel that fosters independence and increases access to other valuable opportunities.”
Two key bus routes currently link West Brant with BCI, making public transit a viable and convenient option. The passes, valid for an entire semester, can be renewed as long as students remain enrolled. Beyond school commutes, the passes grant access to all Brantford Transit routes during operating hours, enabling students to connect with resources and opportunities across the city.
This initiative is part of Grand Erie’s broader strategy to build learning environments that emphasize well-being, belonging, and equity. By addressing practical transportation challenges, the program seeks to create a more inclusive and supportive educational experience.
