AUSTINTOWN TWP., Ohio - Austintown bus drivers now have a new co-pilot to help get students to-and-from school safely.

All 45 buses have been equipped with a "Tyler Drive Tablet."

The tablets give bus drivers verbal turn-by-turn directions, they show drivers where to stop, and which students are suppose to get on and off at each location.

The district says the tablets will be especially helpful for substitute bus drivers, who previously would rely on paper instructions and notes regarding students.

Austintown is one of the first districts in the Valley to use the tool.

School officials say the tablets cost about $110,000. They were purchased through Covid-19 relief funds.

In a statement, School Treasurer Blaise Karlovic said: "Covid relief funds are used to promote safety wellness and to assist in closing the achievement gap lost due to the pandemic. This system allows us to efficiently route and get our riders to school."

District officials also say students may eventually carry a card that could be swiped as they enter and exit the bus. This would help drivers know who is on board as they approach each stop.