TIFTON, GA — Tift County Schools’ Transportation Department continues to demonstrate its commitment to safely and efficiently transporting students across the district while managing fuel usage and operational costs responsibly.
Data from the last three school years highlights the tremendous scale of the district’s transportation operations and the continued efforts to maximize resources while supporting student learning opportunities both in and out of the classroom.
During the 2024-2025 school year, Tift County Schools buses traveled a total of 769,506 miles while utilizing 155,106 gallons of fuel at a total cost of $421,542.
In the current 2025-2026 school year, district buses traveled 779,560 miles while using 151,098 gallons of fuel at a total cost of $437,988 (as of May 22nd). Although fuel usage is expected to finish near last year's total by the end of June, the district is on track to travel more miles, reflecting continued efficiency within the transportation fleet.
Over the three-year period, fuel expenditures have remained relatively stable despite fluctuating fuel prices and increasing transportation demands. In 2023-2024, the district spent $453,774 on fuel while using 147,181 gallons. Average fuel prices that year were $3.00 per gallon for gasoline and $3.17 per gallon for diesel.
During 2024-2025, fuel prices decreased to averages of $2.70 per gallon for gasoline and $2.76 per gallon for diesel, helping lower overall fuel costs. In 2025-2026, average gasoline prices remained below 2023-2024 levels at $2.78 per gallon, while diesel increased to $3.19 per gallon.
The district also continued a noticeable shift in fleet fuel usage. Diesel consumption decreased significantly from 67,188 gallons in 2023-2024 to 41,836 gallons in 2025-2026, while gasoline usage increased from 79,993 gallons to 109,262 gallons during the same timeframe as transportation operations and vehicle utilization evolved.
Each day, Tift County Schools’ Transportation Department safely transports students to and from school, extracurricular activities, competitions, and educational experiences across the region. The department’s work supports student attendance, participation, and access to opportunities throughout the district.
“Our Transportation Department plays an essential role in the daily success of our schools,” said Superintendent Natalie Gore. “From early mornings to late evenings, our drivers and transportation staff work tirelessly to ensure students arrive safely and on time. We appreciate their dedication and their commitment to serving the students and families of Tift County each day.”
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