MCPS Cancels Release of Bus Tracking App

Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) issued the following community message on Monday, April 15, regarding the proposed self-service bus tracking app.

“Earlier this year, with the goal of enhancing our school transportation system, MCPS initiated a pilot program to assess the potential of school bus tracking software.

After careful evaluation, analysis, and monitoring of the pilot program, it was determined that the tested mobile application contained a vulnerability that could potentially expose student information. With this knowledge, even though no MCPS student data or information was exposed at any time, it was apparent that the piloted application could not meet our expectations. As a result, we have made the decision to end this specific pilot program.

We want you to know that we are continuing to pursue options to allow families to monitor bus locations in real time. This will include exploring alternative solutions and technologies that align with our commitment to providing safe and efficient transportation services for our students while also ensuring data security. We will keep you informed as we proceed in this regard.

In the short term, the tracking equipment will continue on all buses and will enhance the monitoring capabilities of MCPS Department of Transportation staff, enabling them to track bus locations, speed, miles traveled and respond to the operational challenges of the district’s large transportation infrastructure.

I want to express my sincere gratitude to all those who participated in the pilot program, including parents, school administrators, and our transportation staff. Your feedback and support have been invaluable throughout this process. While the outcome may not have been what we hoped for, it is important to learn through such initiatives so that we may find a path forward.

Once again, thank you for your understanding and cooperation in this matter.

Sincerely,

Brian Hull
MCPS Chief Operating Officer”