AMHERST, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) - Some school bus drivers in Amherst will no longer need to worry about the raising prices of gas and diesel.

Tuesday, the Amherst-Pelham Regional School District launched their new fleet of electric school buses in partnership with Highland Electric Fleets.

“At Highland, our mission is pretty darn simple,” said Matt Stanberry, senior vice president of market development with Highland Electric Fleets. “It’s to make health and operational benefits of electric school buses more accessible and affordable to every community.”

With over $1 million in public funding and thousands of dollars in grants, the district is hoping to accelerate the shift away from diesel.

“Replacing just five diesels in a fleet with electrics can reduce the risks of pediatric asthma ... for which diesel exhaust is a known trigger for approximately 1,500 students,” said Stanberry.

The new buses will reduce air pollution exposure and lessen noise pollution. Such factors are believed to improve student welfare and raise average attendance.

“So by investing in cleaner and more sustainable transportation, we are showing students that their actions and ours have a real impact on the world and environment around them,” said Dr. Herman, superintendent of Ambrose, Columbia schools. “These buses are quieter, smoother and healthier. That means a more peaceful start and end to each day for our students.”

Four new Thomas electric school buses are set to hit the road starting next school year.