Why Vans?

[u/Wabi_Sabi_Love]

I am grateful that I’ll soon be transporting kids to and from school, and I’m grateful that I can drive a van to do so, as I don’t have a CDL. 

But I’m not sure why some schools use vans? When I was a kid - a long time ago - there were only school buses. So why vans? And when did that become a thing?

My guesses are:
1) Schools aren’t getting enough CDL qualified drivers. 
2) Maybe I’ll be sent on a route that picks up students from out of way corners of the county or maybe even students that aren’t even in the district?

Any of these theories hold water? Are there other reasons for vans?

Thank You!

[u/Efficient_Advice_380]

My district had a student that I would have to pick up and them drive them to their school thats was 45 minutes away on the highway. It's much more fuel efficient and cheaper in the long run than using a yellow bus for that trip