Hoffman Estates students get lesson in public transportation

Representatives from Pace Bus and JJs List recently held a "Hop on the Bus" training at Hoffman Estates High School. During the 90-minute session, students in Hoffman Estates High School's Special Education department learned how to independently use public transportation.

"This training is really setting a foundation for the future," said Edward Madden, coordinator of Public Outreach for Pace. "Whether they use a fixed-route bus now or in 15 years, we want them to have a positive experience."

Hoffman Estates High School Speech Pathologist Maria Luciani said the program was an important part of teaching the students independence, as well as giving them an ability to access the community.

The program started with an overview of public transportation within the Chicago area. A JJs List representative walked students through accessing a variety of resources, including bus and train schedules.

After the classroom discussion, students walked out to a Pace bus in the school's parking lot. At the bus, Madden and other Pace representatives discussed details of bus operations and safety with the students.

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