City of Windsor Launches School Extras Transition Plan to Support Student Transit Access
The City of Windsor has introduced the School Extras Transition Plan, a proactive initiative designed to support students at four local high schools as they shift to using regular Transit Windsor services effective this upcoming school year, September 2, 2025.
Beginning this spring, City staff will be visiting local high schools including Holy Names Catholic High School, St. Joseph's Catholic High School, Vincent Massey Secondary School, and Riverside Secondary School to connect directly with students to provide information and hands-on support. These in-person visits will include:
- Sharing detailed information about the routes.
- Helping students download and navigate Transit Windsor’s mobile apps.
- Offering helpful tips for riding the bus.
- Answering questions and sharing additional resources.
In addition to school visits, the City is updating its website with new route schedules and resources to support students and families. Information will also be shared with Grade 8 classes in elementary feeder schools to help incoming high school students prepare for the transition.
Residents are encouraged to visit transitwindsor.ca for the latest updates, route information, and helpful resources. The site will be continuously updated throughout the summer to ensure families have access to the information and tools they need ahead of the new school year. The new routes will go live Labour Day Weekend. In the interim, Transit Windsor staff have posted route options for students on the Transit Windsor website.
Quotes:
“Through this robust transition plan for student transit riders, the City is committed to utilizing available resources to assist with the transition this year, adding an additional 15,000 service hours to the overall system, and rolling out an onsite education plan for impacted schools. We understand that transitions and changes can be uncomfortable, so we are working to help students gain confidence in using the public transit system while ensuring they continue to receive reliable and safe travel options. This plan is about more than just routes, it’s about empowering students with the tools and knowledge they need to travel independently.”
– Jelena Payne, Deputy CAO / Commissioner of Economic Development
“As we work to implement the Transit Windsor Master Plan, our system is becoming more connected, efficient, and responsive to the needs of our community. We are excited to welcome high school students who are transitioning from School Extras to our regular transit service, as well as those who are using public transit for the first time. This change will create new opportunities for students, providing them with greater access to their city and the numerous benefits of public transit.”
– Stephan Habrun, Acting Executive Director, Transit Windsor