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Today — 28 June 2026Vehicles

From School Bus to Frozen Yogurt Shop on Wheels

27 June 2026 at 14:06

When longtime software engineer Paul Beck began thinking about the future of his career, he saw artificial intelligence reshaping the technology industry and decided it was time for a change, reported Oil City News.

That change led Beck to frozen yogurt. Beck purchased Chozen Yogurt, a downtown Casper, Wyoming business, in January, after its previous owners put it up for sale. His daughters had worked at the shop during past summers and encouraged him to make a bid.

“My daughters are the reason I bought it,” Beck told local news reporters.

Looking for a way to expand the business, Beck reportedly turned to a decommissioned school bus his family brought with them while moving from Texas several years ago. Originally intended to become a recreational vehicle, the stripped-down school bus instead became a mobile frozen yogurt shop.

“We’ve had the bus for a while and had many plans like converting it to an RV,” Beck said via the article. “That never happened.”

With the seats already removed, Beck spent about two months transforming the vehicle into a mobile extension of a Chozen Yogurt shop. He painted the interior, installed electrical wiring, updated the flooring, and added appliances, working several hours each day to complete the project.

Because the school bus does not include a cooktop, it did not require costly fire suppression or ventilation systems, allowing it to pass city inspections with little difficulty. The mobile unit reportedly serves frozen yogurt and sorbet along with churros, pretzel bites and cookies. Beck said it complements the downtown storefront, which has operated since 2019, while also serving as a rolling advertisement during the busy summer months.

The converted school bus made its debut earlier this month and has already appeared at several community events. “I sent out a lot of emails to people asking if there’s a need for an extra food truck,” Beck told reporters. “Some were full, but a lot said, ‘Yeah, we could use some extra,’ so it’s not been hard at all to find events.”

To help customers locate the traveling shop, Beck added a bus-tracking feature to the company’s website and posts regular location updates on social media.

Written with the assistance of AI.


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The post From School Bus to Frozen Yogurt Shop on Wheels appeared first on School Transportation News.

Yesterday — 27 June 2026Vehicles

Former School Bus Driver Charged With 37 Felony Counts After DUI

26 June 2026 at 23:26

A former Dunklin R-5 School District bus driver has been charged in connection with an alleged driving under the influence incident that occurred while transporting students earlier this year, reported First Alert 4.

According to the news report, Dawna Brennan faces 37 felony counts of endangering the welfare of a child stemming from a Feb. 6 incident in which she allegedly drove a school bus carrying 37 students under the age of 17 after consuming alcohol.

Officers were reportedly called that afternoon to assist with a report of an impaired driver. An initial breath test administered at about 3:20 p.m. showed Brennan’s blood alcohol concentration at 0.029 percent. Authorities said she admitted to drinking half a bottle of Coors Light before driving the bus.

A second breath test conducted about an hour later registered a 0.000 percentblood alcohol reading. Investigators said via the article that Brennan also provided officers with a list of medications she was taking, noting that impairment can occur when alcohol is combined with certain medications.

Authorities said via the report that surveillance footage from the Herculaneum Parks and Recreation Department showed Brennan stopping at Kade’s Playground and drinking from a bottle of Coors Light before beginning her afternoon bus route. Officers later recovered the discarded bottle from a nearby trash can.

The Dunklin R-5 School District reportedly said Brennan was terminated immediately after officials learned about the situation.

“This week, a former school bus driver for the Dunklin R-5 School District was charged in connection with a driving under the influence incident from Feb. 2026,” Communications Director Matt Lichtenstein said via the article. The district also praised Officer Tavener for assisting local law enforcement with the investigation.

District officials reportedly stated that Brennan passed all required pre-employment background checks, including a review of her driving record. While court records indicate her blood alcohol level was below the legal limit for commercial drivers, the district said it maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding alcohol use by employees responsible for student transportation.

Written with AI assistance


Related: Florida School Bus Driver Charged With DUI, Child Neglect After Crash
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Related: Pennsylvania School Van Driver Sentenced to 8 Years in Prison for DUI

The post Former School Bus Driver Charged With 37 Felony Counts After DUI appeared first on School Transportation News.

Stuff the Bus Drive Launches on California’s Central Coast Helping Students

26 June 2026 at 18:25

Local reporters and three local United Way organizations have launched the annual “Stuff the Bus” campaign, aiming to provide school supplies to students across California’s Central Coast as families continue to face rising education costs and economic challenges, reported KSBW 8.

For the third consecutive year, KSBW 8 is partnering with United Way Monterey County, for the third consecutive year. United for San Benito and United Way of Santa Cruz County are also involved to collect donations that will help students begin the school year with essential classroom supplies.

Organizers reportedly said the Stuff the Bus campaign is focused on supporting children whose families are struggling to afford basic school necessities. Community members can contribute throughout the year, with donations helping purchase supplies for students across Monterey, San Benito and Santa Cruz counties. The need remains significant throughout the region.

According to organizers, nearly 13,000 students in Monterey County experienced homelessness during the last school year. In neighboring Santa Cruz County, officials estimate more than 2,700 K-12 students are facing homelessness or other serious hardships that can create barriers to academic success.

Stuff the Bus Seeks to Offset Rising Costs

At the same time, the cost of preparing children for school reportedly continues to strain household budgets. Organizers cited data showing the average American family spent approximately $858 on school supplies in 2025, a figure that can be difficult for lower-income families to manage.

The Stuff the Bus campaign reportedly seeks to bridge that gap by ensuring students have the tools they need when classes begin. Donations support the purchase and distribution of supplies for children throughout the Central Coast, helping schools and families meet growing needs.

Campaign organizers are encouraging residents, businesses and community groups to contribute and support local students. Stuff the Bus donations are accepted year-round, with organizers emphasizing that every contribution can make a difference for children facing financial hardship and help create opportunities for academic success across the region.

Written with the assistance of AI.


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The post Stuff the Bus Drive Launches on California’s Central Coast Helping Students appeared first on School Transportation News.

Before yesterdayVehicles

Boy on Scooter Collides with School Bus in Northwest Miami-Dade

25 June 2026 at 22:31

Miami-Dade deputies are investigating a collision involving a child on a scooter and a school bus Wednesday morning in northwest Miami-Dade County, reported Local 10 News.

The crash reportedly occurred shortly before 7:30 a.m. near Northwest 122nd Street, close to a Miami-Dade County Public Schools transportation center.

Surveillance video obtained by local news reporters showed the bus driver preparing to turn onto Northwest 27th Avenue. In the footage, both the scooter rider and the bus appear to stop before the child begins moving forward. The bus then rolls ahead, and the scooter and bus collide.

Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office Detective Samantha Choon said via the report that the scooter struck the side of the bus. Video from the scene showed the boy limping away from the roadway after the crash as an individual exited the bus to check on him.

Miami-Dade Fire Rescue reportedly transported the child to a trauma center for evaluation. Choon said the boy did not appear to suffer injuries but was taken to the hospital as a precaution.

Miami-Dade County Public Schools said no students were aboard the bus at the time of the collision. Authorities have not determined who had the right of way when the crash occurred, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Scooter Crash Latest Traffic Safety Concern

The incident raised renewed concerns among some area residents and business owners about traffic safety near the transportation facility. A nearby business owner told local news reporters that another scooter rider was struck by a bus in the same area several months ago.

Officials did not immediately provide additional details about the child. Investigators are expected to review surveillance footage and gather witness statements as they work to determine the circumstances that led to the crash. No further information was immediately released.

Written with AI assistance


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The post Boy on Scooter Collides with School Bus in Northwest Miami-Dade appeared first on School Transportation News.

‘Hometown Hero’ Honored for Behind-the-Scenes Service, Dedication in West Virginia Student Transportation

25 June 2026 at 22:12

A Mercer County Public Schools transportation secretary known for her positive attitude and dedication to student safety was named Hometown Hero, reported WVVA News.

According to the news report, Amber Dillow, who has served as secretary for the school system’s transportation department for four years, was recognized in May for her behind-the-scenes work helping keep daily transportation operations running smoothly.

While parents and students often see school bus drivers each day, much of the coordination that supports school transportation happens out of public view. Dillow’s responsibilities include answering calls, organizing transportation for curricular and extracurricular trips, and assisting drivers with questions and scheduling needs.

Dillow said her work is driven by a desire to help others rather than a need for recognition. “I just like taking care of people and helping them get places where they need to be,” she told local news reporters.

Colleagues reportedly describe Dillow as someone who brings energy and positivity to the workplace regardless of the challenges that may arise during the day. “She’s excited. I’ve never seen her upset or whatever to come in to work,” said Mercer County school bus driver Jamez Keith. “She’s always excited. She’s joyful.”

Keith said Dillow’s willingness to help drivers and quickly answer questions makes a difference for transportation staff. “She’s usually very helpful with any driver,” Keith told reporters. “Any time we have a question or whatever, she’s usually spot on. She’ll answer right quick. And then usually it’s really helpful when she does that.”

Hometown Hero Also Makes a Difference Behind the Wheel

In addition to her office duties, Dillow occasionally fills in where needed, including driving a bus when staffing shortages arise. “She also drives as well,” Keith said to reporters. “If she’s needed to sub on the position, she’ll help out, too. If we need anything, she’s there.”

Keith said he wanted Dillow to know how much she is appreciated by fellow drivers and the community.

Dillow said the Hometown Hero recognition is meaningful and reinforces her commitment to supporting others. “I’m very appreciative that he feels that way,” she said. “In a job that is tough, I just try to make them smile.”

Written with the assistance of Ai.


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The post ‘Hometown Hero’ Honored for Behind-the-Scenes Service, Dedication in West Virginia Student Transportation appeared first on School Transportation News.

Fuel Theft Attempt Ends in Fire, Destroying Grace Academy Bus in Washington

24 June 2026 at 19:56

Two school buses at a private Marysville, Washington school were damaged after a suspected fuel theft attempt sparked a fire, and now school officials are faced with the need to replace another school bus.

According to a social post by Grace Academy, the fuel theft and resulting blaze occurred June 15. Two individuals were attempting to siphon fuel from one of the school buses when the vehicle caught fire. The blaze destroyed a smaller bus and damaged a larger bus parked nearby, and it burned surrounding bushes. Officials said they believe the fire was accidental. No injuries were reported.

“We’ve had some problems in the past with people coming onto campus and drilling holes into fuel tanks,” Tim Pearce, co-head of school at Grace Academy, told local news reporters. “This particular one went very wrong.”

The Marysville Fire Department responded quickly and prevented the flames from spreading further, school officials said in a statement posted on social media. Grace Academy praised firefighters for containing the blaze and minimizing additional damage to school property.

Pearce said the smaller bus is believed to be a total loss, while the extent of damage to the larger bus is still being assessed.

The Marysville Police Department is investigating the incident. A department spokesperson said via local reports on Monday that no arrests have been made, and no fuel theft suspects have been identified. Detectives are continuing to review the case.

Fire Damage Throws Wrench in New School Year Transportation Plans

The destroyed school buses are used primarily for student transportation during field trips, athletic competitions, and other extracurricular activities. School officials are now evaluating how to replace the damaged vehicle and restore transportation capacity before students return to campus for the upcoming school year.

Pearce said the loss is particularly frustrating because the school had recently completed a fundraising campaign.

“We had just raised money for a new bus just last year,” he told reporters. “Now we are down again, so we are going to have to raise funds again.”

The school launched an effort to seek donations from the community to help replace the destroyed bus and improve campus security measures aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.

School officials said they are considering additional security upgrades after previous incidents involving individuals entering the property and damaging fuel tanks. Pearce noted that fuel theft has been an ongoing concern, though none of the prior incidents resulted in a fire.

Grace Academy officials expressed gratitude that no students or staff members were on campus at the time of the fire and that no injuries were reported.


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The post Fuel Theft Attempt Ends in Fire, Destroying Grace Academy Bus in Washington appeared first on School Transportation News.

Florida School Bus Driver Charged With DUI, Child Neglect After Crash

23 June 2026 at 20:27

A school bus driver in Florida was arrested on driving under the influence and child neglect charges after she allegedly backed her bus into another vehicle while transporting six children and later showed signs of impairment, reported Weartv News.

The crash reportedly happened around 1:35 p.m. Friday near the intersection of 8th Avenue and Ferdon Boulevard, also known as State Road 85. Investigators said Mechelle Prevoznik, 62, of Crestview, was operating an Okaloosa County School District school bus when she backed into a vehicle that was stopped behind the bus.

According to the news report, officers responding to the scene began investigating the crash and reported detecting the odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from Prevoznik. Police then conducted a DUI investigation that included field sobriety exercises.

Prevoznik reportedly displayed signs of impairment and was taken into custody. Police said she later provided a breath sample that measured a blood alcohol content of 0.048 percent. The crash occurred at a low speed, and no injuries were reported among the children, the driver of the other vehicle or Prevoznik, police said.

Authorities charged Prevoznik with one count of driving under the influence of alcohol and six counts of child neglect without bodily harm, one for each child on board the bus at the time of the crash. Prevoznik was transported to the Okaloosa County Jail without incident.

The Okaloosa County School District had not publicly commented on the arrest as of Friday evening. No mention of the arrest was made on the school district’s social media channels, though a post that same day advertising school bus driver hiring received negative comments about drunk school bus drivers.


Related: South Carolina School Bus Driver Charged with DUI While Transporting Students
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The post Florida School Bus Driver Charged With DUI, Child Neglect After Crash appeared first on School Transportation News.

Two Students Left on School Buses in One Year Prompts Investigation

19 June 2026 at 21:01

Two incidents in which young students were left unattended on school buses this school year have prompted scrutiny of transportation practices in Oxnard, California’s Rio School District and intensified a dispute between district officials and the union representing bus drivers, reported vcstar news.

According to the news report, the incidents occurred months apart but shared a troubling similarity: Children remained on buses after drivers completed their routes and exited the vehicles.

In the first case, a 5-year-old girl was reportedly left on a bus for several minutes after it arrived at Rio Real Dual Immersion Academy in August. The driver had returned to the school with a kindergartner whose caregiver was not present at his stop. The driver exited the bus with the boy, unaware that another student remained on board. A few minutes later, a crying girl exited the bus.

A second incident reportedly occurred Jan. 15 at Rio Del Norte School when a second-grade special education student who is nonverbal was discovered crying and banging on a bus door after the driver left her on board and entered the school building. Another driver opened the bus and escorted the child inside.

District officials said via the article that neither child was physically harmed, and both were left alone only briefly. Still, Assistant Superintendent Rafael Gaeta called the incidents unacceptable. “Two times in a year is way too much,” Gaeta said. “This is not normal.”

Both drivers received letters of reprimand and were reported to the California Department of Motor Vehicles, which suspended their school bus driving privileges. One suspension is under review after a DMV hearing officer recommended setting it aside. The status of the second suspension has not been disclosed.

The California School Employees Association, which represents district bus drivers, has reportedly appealed both suspensions and argues the incidents do not meet the legal definition of “gross negligence,” a standard that can trigger DMV action under California law. Union officials also contend transportation employees face low morale, staffing challenges and inadequate support. They say drivers have been required to cover additional routes and have not consistently received updated student rosters.

The two drivers reportedly offered different explanations for the incidents. According to district records, the driver involved in the August incident at Rio Real described leaving the child on the bus as “an innocent mistake.” The driver involved in the January incident at Rio Del Norte said she left the bus to use the restroom after arriving at the school, though the district said video evidence contradicted that account.

The district’s buses are reportedly equipped with Child Check-Mate safety alarm systems, which require drivers to walk to the rear of the bus and deactivate an alarm after each route. According to district disciplinary records, both incidents occurred despite the presence of the safety system. California has required child safety alert systems on school buses since 2018 under the Paul Lee School Bus Safety Law, named for an autistic teenager who was nonverbal and died after being left on a school bus in 2015.

Data on how often children are left on school buses is difficult to obtain. The California Department of Motor Vehicles does not publicly release statewide totals, and nothing in the state’s bus safety law requires such disclosure.

Ryan Gray, editor of School Transportation News provided input in the article and said he is not aware of any comprehensive national data, though he said transportation professionals see “a couple dozen” news reports involving similar incidents across the country each year. Industry consultant Dick Fischer later told STN the last estimate he saw from the federal government was about 500 incidents a year, but the figure is several years old.

Gray said most school districts have a “zero tolerance policy” toward kids being left on a bus. “I know a lot of districts will just fire the drivers on the spot,” he said. “Others might suspend. It just depends on the district.”

Two incidents in one year in a school district, the size of Rio, it has about 5,000 students, 724 of whom ride the bus, seems unusual, Gray said. “When anything like this happens, one is too many,” he said.


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The post Two Students Left on School Buses in One Year Prompts Investigation appeared first on School Transportation News.

Delaware Man Charged After Allegedly Pointing Gun at School Bus

18 June 2026 at 21:47

Delaware State Police have arrested a man accused of pointing a handgun at a school bus carrying students.

Charles McCombs, 62, of Magnolia, was charged with multiple felony offenses following an investigation into the June 9 incident, according to Delaware State Police.

Police said the investigation began at about 8 p.m. when the school resource officer assigned to Polytech High School was notified by school administrators about a cellphone video showing a man pointing a firearm at students on a school bus.

Detectives determined the incident occurred earlier that day while a school bus was traveling through Magnolia, Delaware.

According to investigators, a student aboard the bus sprayed water from a water gun at a man riding a Can-Am Spyder motorcycle traveling alongside the bus. After being sprayed, the motorcyclist became angry, yelled at students and then allegedly pulled out a handgun and pointed it toward bus as he drove away.

Gun Threat Results in Arrest, Unknown Consequences for Students

Authorities said no injuries were reported, and no shots were fired during the encounter. However, investigators considered the alleged actions serious enough to pursue felony charges.

State police used investigative techniques to identify the suspect as McCombs and obtained an arrest warrant. Details about the methods used to identify him were not released.

McCombs was taken into custody without incident June 11 and transported to Delaware State Police Troop 3 for processing. He was charged with one count of possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony and six counts of aggravated menacing, all felony offenses.

Under Delaware law, aggravated menacing involves intentionally placing another person in fear of imminent physical injury through the display of what appears to be a deadly weapon.

Police did not immediately release additional information about the six aggravated menacing charges, including whether each count corresponds to an individual student or another victim involved in the incident. There was also no mention if any discipline was handed out to students involved in the incident.

Following his arrest, McCombs was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2. He was subsequently committed to Sussex Correctional Institution after failing to post a $48,000 secured bond, according to authorities.

No additional details about the investigation were immediately available. It was also unclear whether McCombs has retained legal representation. The case remains under investigation.


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The post Delaware Man Charged After Allegedly Pointing Gun at School Bus appeared first on School Transportation News.

Beloved Missouri School Bus Driver Retires After 27 Years, More Than 1 Million Miles

16 June 2026 at 20:02

Students at Spoede Elementary School gave longtime school bus driver Carolyn Taylor a hero’s farewell on the last day of school, celebrating her retirement after 27 years behind the wheel and more than 1 million miles safely driven, reported KSDK News.

Lining the school walkway with pom-poms in hand, students cheered and chanted “Ms. Taylor! Ms. Taylor!” as she made her final walk-through campus, stopping to give high-fives to children she had transported for generations.

“She greets us with the warmest smile every time,” said student Avya Kumar to local news reporters.

Taylor began working for the Ladue School District in 1997 as a school bus monitor. She became a driver after realizing she could earn more with a commercial license. “I’m like, ‘No, no. Come on Carolyn. It’s time to get your license,’” she recalled with a laugh.

She spent the next 27 years driving the same Route L-10, becoming a familiar presence for countless families in the neighborhood. “Ms. Taylor is like part of our family,” said Lisa Ross, whose four children rode Taylor’s bus over the years. “She’s the best and she knows every kid, every parent, every everything.”

Ross reportedly loved Taylor so much that 19 years ago, she started an annual tradition called the “Bus Stop Bash,” a celebration for everyone at her bus stop held on one of the last day of school. The event features donuts and chocolate milk for students and families. What began as a small gathering at Ross’ home gradually spread down Grazer Road, growing into a neighborhood tradition that became as much a part of the school year as the first day of class.

Taylor reportedly made it a point to know far more than the names on her route roster. She learned students’ siblings, remembered family stories and kept in touch with generations of riders. Holiday cards from families decorated her bus each year, and she often asked parents about former students who had long since graduated and were now adults.

At Christmas, Taylor handed out candy canes to riders and made sure younger siblings at home received one, too.

Former rider Riley Deutsch, now a second-grade teacher at Spoede, said Taylor built trust with students through kindness and consistency. “The kids love and trust her, and they want to do well for her,” Deutsch said via the article.

Transportation Director Joe Griffin described Taylor as “the grandmother of the Ladue School District Transportation Department,” praising both her compassion and reliability. “She is so sweet and so loving and would do anything for any of the kids,” Griffin said to reporters.

District officials estimate Taylor drove more than 1 million miles during her career, enough to circle the Earth roughly 46 times. Though she considered retiring several years ago, Taylor said students persuaded her to stay. “The kids kept saying, ‘Ms. Taylor, please don’t go,’” she said.

Now approaching her 70th birthday, Taylor plans to undergo knee replacement surgery, visit her grandchildren in Arizona, and take a long-awaited trip to Dubai.

When asked what she will miss most, Taylor pointed to the students. “I may come to work feeling bad, but those kids say something and that pain goes away,” she said.

Written with assistance from AI.


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The post Beloved Missouri School Bus Driver Retires After 27 Years, More Than 1 Million Miles appeared first on School Transportation News.

Retirements Spur Summer Hiring Push to Address School Bus Driver Shortages

16 June 2026 at 19:10

School districts across the country are preparing for a wave of summer retirements of school bus drivers, adding pressure to an already strained student transportation workforce.

To address the growing shortage, school districts are ramping up recruitment efforts through hiring events, sign-on bonuses, paid training programs, referral incentives, and retention initiatives aimed at attracting and keeping qualified drivers.

One district taking a hands-on approach is Branson Public Schools in Missouri. The district’s transportation department hosted its first annual “Take the Wheel” Driving Event on June 13, giving community members the opportunity to get behind the wheel of a school bus, meet transportation staff and learn more about available career opportunities.

The event was designed to provide prospective applicants with a firsthand summer-time look at what it is like to serve as a school bus driver while highlighting the benefits of the profession, including flexible schedules and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on students’ daily lives. Participants visited multiple event locations throughout the community, while bus test drives were available at Buchanan Elementary. Branson’s initiative reflects a growing trend among school districts looking beyond traditional job postings to recruit new drivers, especially to address retirements.

In Alabama, Tuscaloosa City Schools recently hosted a Bus Driver Hiring Fair, where prospective applicants could receive assistance with the application process, schedule fingerprinting appointments and participate in on-the-spot interviews. The school district is also offering a $2,000 signing bonus for new drivers, starting pay of $23.80 per hour, and paid commercial driver’s license (CDL) training, helping remove barriers for individuals interested in entering the profession.

Retirements Spur Need for More School Bus Driver Hiring

The urgency behind these recruitment efforts is driven not only by ongoing nationwide school bus driver shortages, but also by the retirements of a number of longtime drivers retiring this summer who have spent decades serving their communities.

In Georgia, Fayette County school bus driver Diane Vaughn recently retired at age 82 after an extraordinary 50-year career. According to local news reports, Vaughn began driving in 1976 to secure health insurance for her child’s cancer treatment and quickly developed a passion for the profession. Over the past five decades, she safely transported thousands of students and became a familiar face to generations of families. The Fayette County School Board honored her service with a specially made 50-year service pin and a standing ovation, recognizing a career that exemplifies the dedication many veteran drivers have brought to student transportation.

In Tennessee, retiring Wilson County Schools bus driver Frances Theiring is also marking the end of a remarkable career. According to local news reports, Theiring, who spent nearly 50 years driving a special education bus and teaching in a special education classroom in Mt. Juliet, will become the first woman from Wilson County inducted into the Tennessee School Bus Driver Hall of Fame. Honored recently by fellow drivers and district staff at the transportation department’s year-end cookout, Theiring said she felt “overwhelmed but grateful” as she reflected on a career dedicated to serving students and families.

Theiring’s induction recognizes not only her longevity but also her commitment to safe and reliable transportation. According to the Tennessee School Bus Driver Hall of Fame, inductees must have at least 45 years of uninterrupted service as a daily route driver and demonstrate exceptional dedication, integrity and service to students. Wilson County Schools officials praised Theiring’s impact on the community, with school board chair Joe Padilla noting that her influence on generations of students and families cannot be measured.

Retirements like those of Vaughn and Theiring underscore the challenge facing school transportation departments nationwide. According to recent reports, Tuscaloosa City Schools continues to seek hiring additional drivers this summer for the upcoming school year, while school systems across the country are investing in recruitment and training programs to strengthen their transportation workforce.

From interactive experiences like Branson’s “Take the Wheel” event to hiring fairs, signing bonuses, competitive wages, and paid CDL training, districts are employing a variety of strategies to attract new drivers before students return to classrooms this fall. As veteran drivers leave the workforce after decades of service, transportation leaders are increasingly focused on finding innovative ways to ensure students have safe and reliable transportation for the school year ahead.


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Related: Retired Man Now Drives a School Bus and Sings to Children

The post Retirements Spur Summer Hiring Push to Address School Bus Driver Shortages appeared first on School Transportation News.

Ohio School Bus Driver Arrested on Alleged Sex Crimes Involving Minors

11 June 2026 at 21:07

A northwest Ohio pastor as well as a school bus driver was arrested on allegations involving sex crimes against minors, prompting his dismissal from a local church and a suspension from his job with a public school district.

According to the Deshler Police Department, Christopher Walter, 52, was charged with grooming and sexual battery. The sexual battery charge alleges the victim was a minor, and that Walter was more than two years older than the alleged victim.

Under Ohio Revised Code Section 2907.03, sexual battery can apply in cases involving adults who hold positions of authority or trust over minors.

Walter was booked into the Corrections Center of Northwest Ohio on June 2, court records show. During an initial court appearance the next day, a judge set bond at $30,000, with 10 percent permitted for release.

Administrators with Patrick Henry Local Schools confirmed Walter was employed by the district as a bus driver. Following his arrest, the district suspended him without pay.

“Patrick Henry Local Schools is aware of the arrest and criminal charges involving an employee of the district,” the district said in a statement. “The employee has been suspended without pay. Because this is a personnel and legal matter, the district will have no further comment.”

Walter also served as lead pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Deshler. Church officials confirmed he was removed from that position following the allegations.

According to local news reporters Bishop Daniel Beaudoin described the accusations as serious and deeply troubling. He said the church acted after hearing of the allegations and emphasized that abuse has no place within the faith community.

“The abuse of anyone, especially minors, has no place in our church,” Beaudoin said via local reports. “We will continue to pray for those harmed, the congregation and all involved as we navigate this troubling situation.” The bishop did not provide additional details about Walter’s termination or any internal actions taken by the church.

Authorities have released few details about the investigation. The Deshler Police Department said it is not providing additional information at this time. “The matter remains under investigation, and no further information is being released currently.”

Court records do not indicate whether Walter had entered a plea at this report. Information regarding legal representation was not immediately available.

School officials did not say how long Walter had worked for the district. Church officials likewise did not provide details about his tenure as lead pastor. No information about the alleged sexual battery victims has been released. Authorities have not indicated whether additional charges could be filed as the investigation continues.


Related: Illinois School Bus Driver Arrested Following Child Sexual Assault Allegation
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10 Taken to Hospital After School Bus, Car Crash in New York

Ten people were taken to a hospital following a crash involving a school bus and a passenger vehicle in Staten Island’s Brighton Heights neighborhood, reported Silive News.

According to the news report, the collision occurred Monday at approximately 7:45 a.m. Police said a school bus was traveling eastbound when it collided with a car driven by a 49-year-old man who was attempting to merge into traffic from a parked position. The details are based on preliminary information provided by the New York Police Department’s Deputy Commissioner of Public Information.

The crash reportedly involved 12 people on board the bus, including 11 children and one adult. Emergency responders arrived shortly after the incident and evaluated those involved at the scene. Ten patients were transported to Richmond University Medical Center in West Brighton for further evaluation. Authorities did not immediately specify how many of those taken to the hospital were children or adults, nor did they provide details about the severity of any injuries.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation. No arrests have been reported, and police did not immediately release the identities of those involved.

Morning traffic in the area was affected as emergency crews responded to the scene and worked to clear the vehicles from the roadway. Officials have not indicated whether the school bus was able to continue its route or whether alternative transportation arrangements were made for students.

Written with assistance from AI.


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Wandering Child in Neighborhood Prompts Arrest of Florida School Bus Driver

A Miami-Dade County school bus driver has been arrested after authorities said she left a sleeping 6-year-old boy unattended on a school bus, allowing him to wander through a Southwest Miami-Dade neighborhood before being found by a Good Samaritan, reported WSVN News.

Patricia Barberena, 62, was taken into custody Tuesday and charged with child neglect, according to the news report. Authorities said the incident occurred after Barberena picked up the child from a day care facility and was supposed to transport him to school.

Investigators said via the article that the boy fell asleep during the ride and remained on the bus when it arrived at the school. Rather than conducting a post-route inspection, Barberena allegedly drove the bus to her residence, parked it and went inside without checking whether any students were still on board.

The child later woke up, exited the bus, and reportedly began walking through the neighborhood alone. Investigators estimated the wandering child was unsupervised for approximately 15 minutes before a passerby noticed him and contacted authorities.

School officials reportedly became aware of the situation when the child failed to arrive at school as expected. According to investigators, the school contacted Barberena after noticing the student was missing. Barberena then left her residence and began searching for the child.

During a post-Miranda interview with investigators, Barberena reportedly admitted she did not inspect the bus before leaving it parked at her home.

The child was safely located, and no injuries were reported. Barberena appeared in bond court following her arrest, where a judge found probable cause for the charge and set her bond at $2,500. It was not immediately clear whether Barberena remained employed following her arrest. The incident remains under investigation.

Written with assistance from AI.


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Fatal Shooting at Pennsylvania School Bus Drop-Off Leads to Arrest

A 16-year-old Harrisburg teen has been charged with criminal homicide after the fatal shooting of a 17-year-old student moments after stepping off a school bus.

Jeremiah Moran, 16, is charged with first-degree murder, firearms not to be carried without a license, and possession of a firearm by a minor in connection with the death of a 17-year-old.

Police said the fatal shooting occurred May 29 near an intersection shortly after students were dismissed from school and days before the end of the school year. The 17-year-old had just exited a school bus when investigators say Moran approached and opened fire. The victim was transported to a local hospital for emergency care but died due to his injuries.

Video Shows Fatal Shooting

Investigators reportedly obtained video evidence allegedly showing Moran firing the weapon to shoot the victim, identified as Camar Cordero by local reports. Police said via local news that Moran later admitted to officers that he shot Cordero.

“There still is some of the puzzle that needs to be put together. But at this point in time, I think we have a pretty good understanding of what transpired and as to why it transpired as well,” Harrisburg Police Capt. Kyle Gautsch told local news reporters.

Investigators have not publicly released a motive for the fatal shooting.

However, the shooting prompted a large police response as officers secured the scene and collected evidence. Authorities noted that a school bus visible at the scene was not the bus Cordero had been riding but another bus traveling behind it.

Sixth Street remained closed for several hours while detectives processed evidence. Crime scene tape surrounded a large section of the roadway, where investigators marked multiple pieces of evidence. Witnesses reported seeing clothing and numerous evidence markers within the secured area. The road reopened around 6:15 p.m.

Neighbors who rushed to assist the victim described a chaotic scene in the moments after gunfire erupted. Judith Weaver, who helped organize emergency aid before first responders arrived, said residents immediately worked to help the wounded teen.

“I knew the bus had just let out. So, I went running down there,” Weaver told local news reporters. “Everyone was just so worked up. It was all chaos.”

Weaver said bystanders used available fabric to apply pressure to Cordero’s wounds while waiting for emergency personnel. She credited several community members, including a young girl who assisted efforts to keep the victim conscious.

Lt. Brandon Braughler of the Harrisburg Police Bureau praised residents who responded and cooperated with investigators. “The community came out,” Braughler said. “They’ve been very cooperative helping establish a very large crime scene.”

The fatal shooting has renewed concerns about youth violence in the city. Gautsch urged parents to remain actively involved in their children’s lives and be aware of potential warning signs.

“Make sure you know what’s going on with your children, what’s going on in their heads, and what’s in your lives and their lives,” Gautsch said.

The Harrisburg School District also responded to the tragedy. Superintendent Benjamin Henry said he hopes to hold a memorial in the coming days for Cordero and another student who died last week after being struck by a vehicle.

“As a father and an educator, I refuse to normalize this tragic shooting,” Henry said in a statement, calling on residents, community leaders and elected officials to work together to address violence affecting young people.

Police continue to investigate and are asking anyone with information about the case to contact the Harrisburg Bureau of Police.


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Setting Fires Lands Former Utah School Bus Driver in Federal Prison

A former Utah school bus driver who admitted to setting fire to his school bus, was sentenced to five years in federal prison, bringing an end to a decade-long case that raised concerns about student safety.

Michael Austin Ford, 60, of West Valley City, pleaded guilty in March to arson of a vehicle belonging to an organization receiving federal funds after investigators determined he intentionally ignited a Granite School District bus with a cigarette lighter while driving it in April 2023. Federal prosecutors said surveillance video captured Ford setting the fire beneath the dashboard and continuing to drive as smoke billowed past his face.

In addition to the prison term, Ford was sentenced Monday to three years of supervised release and ordered to pay more than $21,000 in restitution.

The case drew heightened attention because prosecutors also accused Ford of setting another school bus fire in February 2022 while 42 children were aboard. According to court records, students reported smelling smoke and were seen on video covering their faces with their shirts and coughing as smoke filled the bus. Ford eventually stopped the vehicle, evacuated the students, and used a fire extinguisher to put out the flames. No serious injuries were reported. The charge related to that incident was dismissed as part of his plea agreement.

Federal authorities said Ford also attempted to tamper with the bus video surveillance system in the days leading up to the April 2023 fire, but investigators were still able to obtain video evidence showing him igniting the blaze.

Fires Go Back at Least 10 Years

Ford had worked for the Granite School District since 1998 and drove school buses for approximately 25 years before he was terminated following the investigation.

Investigators also linked Ford to several other suspicious fires. According to court documents, authorities determined he was involved in eight fires, including four involving Granite School District buses, two at his West Valley City residence and two involving personal vehicles. Police noted that the four bus fires all originated in the dashboard area and occurred while Ford was driving. One of those incidents occurred in 2017 when a bus was partially engulfed in flames, damaging part of the vehicle. No children were on board, and no injuries were reported. Authorities initially believed the fire was caused by mechanical problems before later identifying Ford as the driver.

“Protecting our most vulnerable population is a top priority,” U.S. Attorney Melissa Holyoak said in a statement following the sentencing. “I want to thank our law enforcement partners and my office who worked tirelessly on this case to bring it to a close and hold Mr. Ford accountable for his intentional disregard for safety and the law.”


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Illinois School Bus Driver Arrested Following Child Sexual Assault Allegation

A school bus driver contracted to transport students for the Rantoul City School District in Illinois has been arrested on allegations of predatory criminal sexual assault of a child, reported WCIA News.

According to the news report, 35-year-old Illinois school bus driver Johnnie C. McClendon Jr. was taken into custody May 28 following an investigation conducted by the Rantoul Police Department. Police said McClendon was arrested without incident.

McClendon is employed by First Student Inc., the transportation company contracted to provide bus services for the district, said police via the article.

“At this time, investigators have received no allegations of misconduct related to his employment, and the investigation appears to involve matters unrelated to his position with the company,” the police department said in a statement to local news reporters.

Police reportedly declined to release additional details, citing the need to protect the integrity of the investigation and the privacy of those involved. Court records had not been updated as of Friday to reflect formal charges filed by the Champaign County State’s Attorney’s Office. McClendon remained in custody following his initial court appearance.

Rantoul City Schools Superintendent Scott Woods said district officials were notified by police of the arrest and immediately contacted First Student regarding the driver’s status.

“We have confirmed with First Student that the individual will not be driving for our school district in future,” Woods said in a letter sent to families.

Woods said district officials have been informed that the allegations are not related to McClendon’s conduct while driving a school bus. However, he noted the district has not received information indicating whether the alleged conduct involved a student enrolled in the district.

“We take all matters involving the safety and well-being of children extremely seriously and are monitoring the situation closely,” Woods wrote. “Student safety remains our highest priority.”

The district said it will continue cooperating with law enforcement and communicating with First Student as appropriate.

Police encouraged anyone who may have experienced inappropriate conduct, whether related to the case or otherwise, to contact the Rantoul Police Department. The investigation remains ongoing.


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Champions in Education Award Honors Washington School Bus Driver, Teacher

An Anacortes, Washington, school bus driver and middle school science teacher were named recipients of the school district’s 2026 Champions in Education Award, earning $5,000 grants in recognition of their contributions to students and school communities.

Anacortes School District north of Seattle announced that school bus driver Gail LeBoutillier and middle school science teacher Theresa McCartney were selected as this year’s award recipients through a partnership between the district and Barrett Financial.

Now in its second year, the Champions in Education Award recognizes employees who demonstrate excellence in serving students and supporting schools. The program provides two annual grants of $5,000, one to a certificated staff member and one to a classified or non-represented employee.

LeBoutillier, who has worked as a school bus driver in the district since 2018, was named the Classified/Non-Represented Staff Employee of the Year.

School Bus Driver & Teacher Are Champions in Education

According to Anacortes School District, LeBoutillier was recognized for her commitment to student well-being, communication with families and efforts to create a safe and welcoming environment for students during their daily transportation to and from school.

District officials said her individualized support for students and proactive communication help ensure a positive transportation experience.

“Gail LeBoutillier is recognized for her exceptional care, communication, and commitment to student well-being,” the district said in a news release announcing the award.

McCartney, who was named the Certificated Staff Employee of the Year, was recognized for her work in science education and student engagement.

The district said McCartney creates inclusive, student-centered learning experiences that emphasize accessibility, hands-on instruction, and high expectations for students. Officials also cited her leadership beyond the classroom, including mentoring staff, supporting curriculum development and participating in district initiatives.

Recipients of the Champions in Education Award are selected based on several criteria, including impact on students, commitment to equity and inclusion, innovation, collaboration and professional growth.

District officials said the award is intended to recognize employees who go above and beyond their regular responsibilities to strengthen school communities and support student success.

The 2026 award cycle drew significant participation from district employees. According to the district, 90 staff members were nominated for the honor, and 34 submitted proposals outlining how they would use the grant funding to benefit students.

LeBoutillier plans to use her grant to purchase sensory items, art materials and positive behavior support for students who ride district buses. McCartney plans to invest in hands-on science materials, classroom engagement tools and student enrichment opportunities, including supplies for Anacortes Middle School’s Fun Interest Groups program.

The district said the annual award reflects its ongoing commitment to recognizing employees whose work has a meaningful impact on students, families and schools throughout the community.


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Alleged Bullying Incident Leads to School Bus Fight, Student Hospitalization

A fight between two students on a Baldwin-Whitehall School District school bus near Pittsburg, Pennsylvania sent a sixth grader to the hospital and led to a simple assault charge against an eighth-grade student, according to police and the victim’s family, reported WPXI News.

The incident reportedly happened when students from Harrison Middle School were riding home from school. Video recorded by other students captured part of the altercation.

Jason Scanlon told local news reporters that his son, Jacen, had been dealing with alleged bullying for months before the fight escalated. “It became a group thing, making my son extremely uncomfortable until it became something physical, which I knew was coming,” Scanlon said. “The school was warned it was coming multiple times.”

Fight on the School Bus

According to the news report, the fight began after his son argued with a younger girl, who is related to the eighth grader accused in the attack, at school. “It was a Tuesday, he went to school, apparently got into a little bit of an argument with this younger girl who ended up being the sister of the child who attacked him,” Scanlon said via the article.

Whitehall police reportedly said the older student, who was wearing a cast, punched Jacen during the fight. “He’s wearing a cast and the first punch he throws is at my son’s nose with a cast,” Scanlon told reporters.

The bus driver stopped the bus and called 911. Police and emergency crews responded, and Jacen was taken to UPMC Children’s Hospital. His injuries included a broken nose and a mild concussion, according to his father.

Whitehall police filed a simple assault charge against the eighth-grade student. Scanlon said he repeatedly contacted school administrators before the incident. “Emails, meetings, phone calls, multiple times. I went to [them] for help,” he said of prior attempts to report the alleged bullying.

Baldwin-Whitehall Superintendent Dr. Randal Lutz said via the article that the situation involved “two students who chose to engage in a fight” and noted both students had opportunities to de-escalate. Jacen received a three-day suspension. District officials said the eighth-grade student also faced disciplinary action, though they did not disclose specific consequences. Both students have since returned to class.


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Florida Officials Stress School Bus Stop Safety After Illegal Passer Hits Student

As school districts enter summer vacation, being cautious around school buses remains a priority. A Florida family joined the local school district and Sheriff in speaking out after a 14-year-old girl was struck by a car while attempting to board a school bus in Lee County.

The sheriff’s office and school district held a bus stop safety news conference May 21 following the incident in Estero, Florida, involving eighth-grader Abigail Westveer and several similar incidents across the county. More than 25,000 drivers were caught illegally passing Lee County school buses over a five-month span, alarming law enforcement officials and school leaders. During the conference, Superintendent Denise Carlin said the district partnered with BusPatrol and the Lee County Sheriff’s Office last year to install stop-arm cameras on school buses.

“We installed cameras on our bus fleet to capture video of drivers who fail to stop when a bus is stopping to pick up or drop off our children,” Carlin said.

Westveer was hit the morning of March 31, when a motorist illegally passed a stopped school bus on the right side where the teenager was walked toward the loading doors, according to the Lee County Sheriff’s Office. Video of the incident shows the girl approaching the bus when the sedan comes from behind the bus and passes on the right side at a high rate of speed.

The BusPatrol footage shows the motorist attempting to brake and steering to the right onto a grassy area to try avoid hitting Westveer. Instead, the motorist side-swiped Westveer, striking the girl in the back with the left side of the vehicle. The teen braces herself moments before impact and is thrown to the ground, sliding several feet.

Seconds later, the video shows the driver, whose identity was not immediately released by authorities, exit the vehicle and run toward the teen as another bystander approaches to help.

“That video sickens me,” Sheriff Carmine Marceno said during the press conference. “When those lights are red and that bus stops, stop your vehicle. It’s that simple,” he continued.

Marceno said the enforcement initiative is focused on changing dangerous driving habits around school buses. “There’s one goal here and one mission: Changing driver behavior. It’s about educating the public and saving lives,” he said. Ninety-plus percent of the violators don’t repeat offend. That means the program works.

“Our goal is not to give everybody a ticket. Our goal is to write no tickets because people comply.”

The Lee County Sheriff’s Office said Westveer “was nearly seriously injured” in the crash, calling the incident “a frightening reminder of how quickly lives can change in just seconds.”

Student Escapes Serious Injury Following Illegal Passing Strike

The incident came only seven weeks after the girl’s father died. The family said they are still mourning his loss while trying to recover from the latest traumatic event.

“I damn near lost my granddaughter because of someone that wasn’t paying attention,” Westveer’s grandfather Brian Masters said during the news conference. “This has got to stop before someone does get killed.”

Lori Masters, the girl’s grandmother, added that despite being hit Westveer was at school the following day. She noted that a responding deputy said the outcome could have been much worse if the girl turned to face the oncoming vehicle instead of bracing for impact.

Authorities confirmed that the motorist received a citation in connection with the incident. Additional details about the citation were not immediately released, but Marceno said their could be further a investigation of the motorist.

In the weeks following the incident, local officials have used Westveer’s story to raise awareness about school bus safety and the dangers of illegally passing stopped buses. “Every violation represents a child who could have been seriously killed or injured,” Marceno said.

BusPatrol President and CIO Justin Myers said the program is designed to reduce dangerous driving behavior around school buses through enforcement and education. “Every single violation that the sheriff’s office issues is an opportunity to permanently change that driver’s behavior,” Myers said.

Under Florida law, motorists traveling in both directions must stop when a school bus displays its stop sign and flashing red lights unless the road is divided by a physical barrier. Drivers who illegally pass a stopped school bus can face multiple penalties depending on the severity of the violation and whether children were endangered or injured. Violating the law is considered a moving violation under Florida Statute 316.172.

Myers said the company has seen illegal passing violations decline significantly in communities using stop-arm camera enforcement technology. “We’ve seen degradation of this behavior in communities by as much as 30, 40, or even 50% in the first couple of years,” he said.

Officials said many drivers either ignore the law or fail to pay attention around school zones and bus stops, creating dangerous situations for students entering or exiting buses. “It is entirely unacceptable, entirely preventable,” Myers said.

“Nothing is more important than making sure every child gets home safely,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement released during the news conference. “Together, we are making Lee County safer, one child, one bus stop, and one school zone at a time.”


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