The Go-To for Safe School Rides in Sacramento

HopSkipDrive is partnering with the Sacramento County Department of Child, Family and Adult Services (DCFAS) and others in the Sacramento, California, area to expand options for getting students to and from school and other activities, offering solutions using a different approach to arranging safe and reliable student transportation.

HopSkipDrive’s supplemental network of small vehicles and dynamic driver availability fill in gaps in transportation access by enabling government agencies, school districts, and nonprofits to support the individual needs of students, including those who are experiencing homelessness, those with disabilities (including students who have Individual Education Programs (IEPs), and those who are living in foster care.

“Transportation is a pivotal factor in the lives of the children and families under our care. Our partnership with HopSkipDrive will help to ensure smooth transport to schools, appointments, and various engagements, underscoring our commitment to providing as much support and stability as possible to the families in our community. This transportation option is critical, and we’re looking forward to having this resource available for our staff.”

—Melissa Lloyd, Deputy Director of DCFAS

Leading the Way with Safety

Backed by industry-leading safety technology and processes, HopSkipDrive offers a safe and reliable transportation option, combining sophisticated technology with deep operational expertise to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone who uses the HopSkipDrive platform. HopSkipDrive’s meticulous approach to safety begins with highly vetted caregivers behind the wheel known as “CareDrivers”, and extends to every aspect of the company’s operations.

Every CareDriver on the HopSkipDrive platform has at least five years of caregiving experience and must pass a rigorous 15-point certification process, including fingerprinting, background screenings and ongoing driving and criminal record checks. CareDrivers on the HopSkipDrive platform in Sacramento must use a four-door vehicle newer than 13 years old, and vehicles must pass an annual inspection by a certified mechanic.

“At CASA Sacramento, we understand how pivotal safe transportation is in the lives of children and families,” said Kelley Donato, Associate Director of CASA Sacramento, which recruits, trains and supports Court Appointed Special Advocates for children in Sacramento County. “For vulnerable populations, essential resources and support can be the catalyst for transformative change. With HopSkipDrive, families will gain more than transportation — they will gain access to opportunities that hold the potential to reshape their lives.”

New Offerings to Support More Students

With the launch of new speciality transportation offerings — including Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicles, Rider Assistants, and more — HopSkipDrive is empowering schools in Sacramento to support even more students of all abilities in the 2025–2026 academic year. School transportation and education officials in Sacramento can now rely on one trusted partner to supplement school buses and support networks, and comply with state and federal requirements.

When it comes to the new requirements related to California Senate Bill 88, HopSkipDrive’s existing safety standards already align with — and in many cases exceed — them. The company is proactively partnering with CareDrivers throughout the state to ensure a smooth transition to the new requirements, and has made strategic operational investments to ensure full compliance in all areas.

“We take great pride in being able to present a dependable and secure student transportation solution to government agencies and schools in the Sacramento area. Mobility is about more than just transportation; it’s about giving all kids the chance to live up to their full potential by closing the divide between challenges and accomplishments. By partnering with school districts and community agencies in Sacramento, we are working together to ensure students reach their destinations safely and reliably.”

—Joanna McFarland, Co-Founder and CEO of HopSkipDrive

HopSkipDrive Is Actively Seeking CareDrivers in the Sacramento Area

Being a CareDriver is a unique experience that comes with many benefits, including competitive pay up to $50/ride for new CareDrivers, a flexible schedule and the opportunity to make a difference by helping families in the local community. Individuals who are interested in becoming a CareDriver in the Sacramento area can visit bit.ly/SacramentoCalifornia to sign up. Terms apply.