Since 2003, EFA has provided a bus transportation rebate for students attending fine arts and cultural events occurring in Kalamazoo County. The rebate program supports the attendance of more than 20,000 students annually at events presented by EFA and select community partners.
After the rebate, schools contribute a flat rate of $25 per bus round-trip. EFA reimburses the balance at the end of the school year.
Rebate Program Eligibility
- To be eligible, schools must be located within the Kalamazoo RESA service district and be a public K-8 school, an alternative education or special education program, or a private K-8 school that has opted-in to EFA programs.
- The bus rebate typically does not apply to PreK or high school students unless classes are attending through an EFA Teaching Artist residency program (Aesthetic Education Program, Alternative Arts Initiative, or PACE Program) or by special invitation. In 2026-2027, PreK students (ages 4 and older) may use the rebate for attending Billy Goats Gruff and Other Tales.
- Schools are responsible for a flat rate of $25 per bus round-trip. Schools pay their transportation invoices in full upon receipt and submit a rebate request to EFA. At the end of the school year, the rebate program reimburses school districts for the total cost of the trip minus the required $25 per bus contribution.
- The rebate applies only to school bus transportation to pre-approved events in Kalamazoo County. It does not cover parking expenses, transportation via personal vehicles, out-of-county travel, or ineligible events.
- Contact EFA in advance if you have questions regarding eligibility. Not all events or schools are eligible.
Rebate Form and Instructions
- After an eligible event, submit your rebate request using the online EFA Bus Rebate form (coming soon). EFA no longer accepts paper submissions.
- Remember to pay your transportation invoice in full upon receipt. EFA will not pay your transportation invoice directly.
- Rebate requests for the 2026-2027 school year must be received no later than Tuesday, June 1, 2027. Late requests cannot be reimbursed.
- Rebates will be paid after the school year in July 2027.
- Checks will be issued to school districts rather than to individual schools, except for private schools or when a PTO needs to be reimbursed.
Bus Scheduling
Remember to reserve the buses with your own transportation department. EFA does not schedule or provide transportation.
Thank You!
This activity is supported in part by an award from the Michigan Arts & Culture Council and the Irving S. Gilmore Foundation.
Image: Buses outside of Comstock Auditorium, 2026. Photo by Deb Strickland.
