ORCA Cards

Youth under 19 years of age may ride public transportation for free. Students will need to request an ORCA card if they don’t already have one. Learn more about ORCA Cards on the MyORCA website. 

Questions? Call the ORCA Regional Call Center at 1-888-988-6722. Non-English: 1-800-823-9230 during regular business hours M – F from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. PST (closed weekends and holidays). Visit myorca.com for more information.

Metro Bus Information

Taking the bus or light rail to school

• OneBusAway: download this app to know when your bus is coming (in real time).
• Use King County Trip Planner (webpage and app) to plan your bus route. 
• Google Maps can also help find the best option.
• Metro Flex is available in a few regions of the County. You can use an app or call a number for a Metro Flex van to pick you up and drop you off anywhere in the region – including school!

Sample Transit Routes and Tips from SPS

The D Line, 15, and 994 all stop adjacent to Ballard High School.  

Bus tip! Sometimes it’s quickest to walk, bike, or skate to the bus stop even if it’s more than a few blocks away. For example, a student in East Magnolia could walk to catch the D Line on 15th Ave W. In 8 minutes, the D Line would drop them off at school. Assistance with Metro bus routes and schedules can be found at Metro’s website. Visit the SPS ORCA Card and Public Transportation page for district updates.

Refer to the Ballard HS Transportation page for information on parking at school.