Santa Clara County’s First High School Youth Transit Pass Pilot Program 

DATE OF RELEASE: March 20, 2026 

Sunnyvale – The Silicon Valley Youth Climate Action (SVYCA) in collaboration with  the Fremont Union High School District (FUHSD), is thrilled to announce a new youth transit pass pilot program with  Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA). Starting August 2026, this 6-month pilot program will offer all 2,000+ Fremont High School students in Sunnyvale access to VTA bus and light rail services. This initiative aims to eliminate major barriers to public transportation, provide youth with greater independence, and reduce the burden of student drop-offs and pick-ups on parents.

For over a year, youth climate leaders from SVYCA in Cupertino and Sunnyvale have actively engaged with both the school district and VTA officials, advocating for expanded access to public transportation for students. Their passionate outreach and collaboration led to the development of this program.

FUHSD Superintendent Graham Clark shared, "By collaborating with VTA, the Fremont Union High School District is not only providing more students with essential transit access but also contributing to the reduction of traffic and emissions in school areas. We believe this program will serve as a model for other districts, highlighting the importance of investing in student transit through community partnerships as a strategic move for both climate and community well-being."

"By instilling the habit of using public transit at an early age, we aim to reduce traffic congestion, lower pollution levels, and decrease students' reliance on personal vehicles," said Ze-kun Li, Executive Director of Silicon Valley Youth Climate Action, "This pilot program showcases the power of collaborative efforts between educational institutions and local transit authorities to develop practical, sustainable solutions."

VTA's Boardmember and Sunnyvale City Councilmember Linda Sell added, "We are proud to partner with FUHSD and SVYCA to facilitate this important step toward greener transit solutions for the community. Our goal is to make a lasting impact by encouraging sustainable transportation habits among the youth."

VTA Board Chair and Campbell City Councilmember Sergio Lopez stated, "As a transit rider today and someone who relied on transit as a student, I understand how impactful these 

programs can be. That's why as Chair of VTA, I share the commitment of our agency of working together with students and schools to best serve the next generation of our riders."

The success of this pilot program could pave the way for its permanence and expansion, potentially benefiting even more students across Santa Clara County in the future. SVYCA and FUHSD are committed to exploring further opportunities with VTA that promote sustainable and accessible transportation for all students.

About Fremont Union High School District

Founded in 1923 and located in the heart of Silicon Valley, Fremont Union High School District is consistently recognized as one of the most respected and highest performing high school districts in California. 

SVYCA

Silicon Valley Youth Climate Action (SVYCA) empowers teens and young adults to combat climate change through impactful climate education initiatives and policy.