About empowerED Transportation
Serving the greater Chicago suburbs with safe, reliable, and compassionate transportation services for special education students.
Our Story
EmpowerED Transportation was founded in New Lenox, Illinois, with a vision to change how special education transportation is handled and operated. We saw a gap in the industry: while many transportation providers focus solely on logistics, the unique needs of special education students require a higher level of care, training, and understanding.
We built empowerED Transportation to meet that need, offering a service where safety isn’t just a checkbox, and where every ride is an opportunity to support, respect, and empower students.
Our Mission
To provide exceptional transportation services for students with special needs - rooted in safety, reliability, and compassion - so every child arrives ready to learn and returns home feeling supported.
Our Vision
To become the most trusted transportation partner for special education programs in Illinois, setting new standards for safety, communication, and care.
What We Offer
We offer a range of transportation solutions designed specifically for students with special needs, each built on the pillars of safety, reliability, and compassionate care. Whether it’s daily home-to-school service, specialized routing for unique schedules, or trained staff who can provide individualized support, every aspect of what we do is focused on ensuring students travel in a secure, supportive environment that sets them up for a successful school day.
Specialized Student Transportation
We focus exclusively on transporting special education students, which means our routes, vehicles, and schedules are designed with their needs in mind. From morning pick-ups to afternoon drop-offs, we ensure punctuality, comfort, and consistency every day.
Trained Drivers
and Aides
Our drivers and aides are the heart of our service. Each undergoes specialized training in communication, behavioral response, and de-escalation strategies. This training equips them to create a calm, supportive environment for every student, regardless of the challenges that may arise during a ride.
Customized Routing
Solutions
We work hand-in-hand with districts to design routes that fit program needs, student requirements, and logistical realities. Whether it’s accommodating unique schedules, coordinating multiple pick-up points, or minimizing ride times, our routing solutions are built for efficiency and student comfort.
Safety Is Built Into Everything We Do
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Certified & Vetted Drivers
All staff undergo thorough background checks and ongoing credential verification.
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Ongoing Training
Staff receive regular training in emergency procedures, defensive driving, and special needs support.
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Vehicle Care & Maintenance
Every vehicle follows a strict inspection and maintenance schedule to ensure reliability.
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Prepared for Emergencies
Staff are trained in evacuation protocols, medical response basics, and effective communication during crises.
How We Work With Districts
Step 1: Consultation & Needs Assessment
We meet with administrators to understand your district’s unique transportation challenges and student needs.
Step 2: Custom Transportation Plan
We design tailored routes, schedules, and staffing plans based on your requirements.
Step 3: Team Training & Launch
Drivers and aides receive detailed briefings and training specific to your students before service begins.
Step 4: Ongoing Communication
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Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? We’ve got answers. Our goal is to make every part of the transportation process clear and stress-free for parents, students, and school districts. Below you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions we receive about our services, safety measures, and approach.
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We serve school districts throughout the greater Chicago suburbs, including Naperville, Joliet, Bolingbrook, Orland Park, Tinley Park, Oak Lawn, and surrounding communities. If you have questions about our service areas, please contact us directly for a consultation.
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Yes. Every driver and aide completes training in communication techniques, behavioral support, and de-escalation strategies specifically for students with special needs.
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We design routes for efficiency, maintain consistent driver assignments for familiarity, and monitor schedules closely to avoid delays.
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Absolutely. We understand that student needs and program schedules can change, and we adjust our service quickly to accommodate updates.
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We establish a clear point of contact for each district and maintain open lines through phone, email, and regular check-ins.
AJ Gasbarro | Founder empowerED Transportation
“As the owner of empowerED Transportation, I am committed to raising the standard for special education transportation in Illinois. My approach is rooted in safety, empathy, and long-term partnerships with school districts. I believe that when transportation is done right, it becomes an extension of the classroom, supporting a student’s readiness to learn and overall well-being.”
Let’s Talk About How We Can Support Your District
We’re ready to create a transportation plan that delivers safety, reliability, and compassionate care for your students.