HUTCHINSON, KS- In an exciting new initiative to enhance school spirit and community engagement, the Hutchinson Public Schools District unveiled one of two wrapped activity school buses at Monday night’s Board of Education meeting. The buses, designed by 308 students and expertly executed by Lowen Corporation, have already started rolling through Hutchinson and the surrounding communities. The project aims to foster a sense of school pride and unity while providing student transportation. Durham School Services, USD 308’s longtime transportation contractor, funded the project.
The design process involved students from Hutchinson High School and the Career & Technical Education Academy. Under the guidance of their teachers, Dalton Luce and Brad Yoder, the students got hands-on experience in graphic design, brainstorming sessions, and artistic expression. One of the student designers, Cruz Cannon, Hutchinson High School sophomore, shared his excitement: “Working on the bus wrap project was exciting. We got to see our ideas come to life, and now each ride will showcase what makes our school special.” The project was personal for Cannon, as a state wrestler, he’s spent plenty of time on the activity bus.
Lowen Corporation, a Hutchinson company renowned for its innovative approach to vehicle advertising, worked closely with the students to ensure that the final product reflected their creativity. Students were empowered to take ownership of the project from start to finish. This project kicked off late in 2024 when Mr. Luce introduced the concept to his students along with Steve Kappenman, Athletic Director, and Stacy Goss, Director of Communications. After the design phase, Lowen printed a large sample for the students to preview and check for color accuracy. The design was approved by the students in late January.
During the application phase, Lowen staff identified an issue with a vent on the side of the bus that would prevent the vinyl wrap from adhering correctly. Consequently, the design was returned to the students for adjustments, presenting another chance for their involvement, as the metal vent needed to be painted to match the black vinyl. Mr. Yoder's Collision Repair class stepped in to assist with this task. The vents were painted in the paint booth at the Career & Technical Education Academy. The exterior of each bus contains one painted vent, seamlessly matching the vinyl wrap.
One of the two wrapped buses was unveiled at the March 10th Board of Education meeting marking a significant milestone for the district, as the buses are not just modes of transportation but moving billboards of school spirit and student achievement. During the Board of Education meeting, Board President Laura Corey expressed her thanks to the students, faculty and partners who worked on this project. As the buses hit the road, they are expected to travel within the local community and regionally to competitions and events. Each bus holds approximately 55 high school students. The overarching hope is that these eye-catching wraps will spark conversations, inspire community pride, and encourage greater participation in school activities.
The excitement surrounding this project is reflected in Cannon’s words: “We’re not just riding to competitions; we’re showing everyone who we are and what we can achieve together.”
For Immediate Release
Press Contact:
Stacy Goss
USD 308 Director of Communications
Phone: 620-474-5829
Email: Communications@usd308.com