Get the schedule for the transit line you'd take, so if you need to leave later than usual, you'll have the information on hand. I travel too short a distance. True, short distance commuters may find carpooling or vanpooling inconvenient, but you are prime candidates for taking the bus, bicycling or walking to work. And you'll still make an important contribution clean air when you rideshare since cars emit far more pollutants in the first few miles they're driven. Meet at the school, and share the ride from there.
Many people also drop off their children, park, and then catch transit the rest of the way.
I don't trust other peoples' driving. If you're the type of person who must always be behind the wheel, you may be able to find a carpool partner who'd be glad to pitch in for gas and other commute expenses for the luxury of not driving. I'm afraid my rideshare partner will make me late. Actually, ridesharers generally have a higher record of punctuality than solo drivers, most likely due to the fact that someone is counting on them to be on time. If someone is chronically tardy, you may need to find a new carpool partner.