STN EXPO East in Charlotte, North Carolina, is approaching fast, a NASDPTS paper espoused the safety of school buses over alternative transportation, and student transportation organizations tackle safety issues like illegal passing.
David Poag, a 2024 STN Rising Star and director of transportation for Spartanburg School District 6 in South Carolina, shares how he leverages his business and sociology experience to stay fully staffed and keep students safe.
CUMBERLAND, R.I. – Blackstone Valley Prep (BVP) and Durham School Services officially unveiled their twenty-four new electric school buses at a ribbon cutting celebration on Tuesday, January 28, at 12 p.m. at Durham School Services’ transportation depot located at 1 John C Dean Memorial Blvd, Cumberland, RI 02864. Governor McKee was in attendance at the event.
The twenty-four new electric school buses have replaced part of the school district’s existing fleet of standard school buses and began serving the community in mid-December. This new Electric Vehicle (EV) venture significantly catapults BVP to the forefront as an EV leader in its community. The procurement of the new electric school buses was made possible through funding awarded to the school district from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean School Bus Program.
In preparation for the new EV buses, Durham School Services team members participated in training sessions provided by our regional maintenance team and were also joined by representatives from IC Bus and Highland Electric Fleets, where they received hands-on training on how to properly and proficiently maintain and operate the new vehicles, as well as the 24 newly installed Tellus chargers.
“Our team has been buzzing with excitement to finally introduce the new electric school buses to the students and community at the ribbon cutting event,” said Francisco Monteiro, Area General Manager, Durham School Services. “Blackstone Valley Prep and our team have put in a considerable amount of hard work and hours into this sustainability effort. I think I speak for everyone when I say that we feel a sense of pride and accomplishment now that the electric buses are ready to hit the road.”
Wayne Skinner, Senior Vice President of Maintenance at Durham School Services, continued, “We worked tirelessly to ensure all the proper infrastructure and charging stations were in place to make this project a success, and I’m pleased to say that we were beyond successful. This EV endeavor is representative of our Company’s values and commitment to safety and enhancing our community. I am immensely proud of our team and district partner and can’t wait for the students and community to see and experience the buses in action.”
Beth Dowd, Director of Operations at Blackstone Valley Prep, added, “By embracing this more sustainable initiative, we’re supporting the well-being of BVP scholars, our communities, and the environment, and prioritizing a healthier and more vibrant future for all.”
“Blackstone Valley Prep’s deployment of 24 electric school buses the largest in Rhode Island is a landmark achievement in student transportation,” said Matt Stanberry, VP of Market Development at Highland Electric Fleets. “This project reflects a shared commitment by BVP, Durham School Services, IC Bus, and Highland Electric Fleets to prioritize student health and wellness while embracing innovative solutions that set a new standard for schools across the state.”
About Durham School Services: As an industry-leading student transportation provider, Durham School Services is dedicated to the safety of our students and People. For more than 100 years, we have been committed to Excellence and upholding our mission of getting students to school safely, on time, and ready to learn. Through this mission and a grassroots approach to our operations, Durham School Services has earned recognition as a trusted transportation provider among our Customers and the Communities we serve.
The foundations of transporting students with disabilities and special needs begin with recognizing that vehicles are an integral piece of the entire school experience and that transportation professionals have a central role in Individual Education Programs (IEPs), three panelists said during the Transporting Students with Disabilities (TSD) and Special Needs Conference in Frisco, Texas last November.
Panelists Alex Robinson, Rosalynn Vann-Jackson and Susan Moorehead emphasized every transportation department professional’s responsibility in supporting the academic and personal growth of students with disabilities.
“What happens on the bus is an extension of the classroom and can make or break that student,” industry consultant Robinson explained. “We need to make sure drivers, transporters and parents understand that the goals on the bus match the goals in the classroom. And that can’t happen without effective communication.”
Vann-Jackson, the chief support services officer with the Broken Arrow Public Schools in Oklahoma, stressed the importance of leveraging the collective knowledge of transportation teams. “One thing I’ve learned in pupil transportation is you can’t do it all yourself. Look to the people on your left and right,” she said.
Susan Moorehead, area safety and training manager for Zum Services, agreed. “This is a career where you can make a difference in enhancing the education process of students,” she added. “It’s so much more than driving—it’s about shaping a part of their educational journey.”
The panelists highlighted the evolving role of transportation professionals in IEPs, which are legally mandated under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). These plans ensure students receive a free and appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment.
“Transportation is a related service under the law, but we often don’t treat it as such,” Robinson said. “The least restrictive environment for transportation starts with general education buses, yet too often we default to special education buses without fully considering the student’s needs.”
The panelists advocated for transportation professionals to be included in IEP meetings, especially when changes in placement, equipment, or support are being discussed.
“You are the expert in transportation,” Vann-Jackson said. “You see things every day that teachers and administrators don’t. If a child has seizures triggered by flashing lights, you need to share that. If there’s a new wheelchair that needs securing, you’ll know how to handle it before anyone else.”
Moorehead added, “Transportation professionals are part of the educational process, not just vendors dropping off students. … It starts with the contract and getting involved immediately with the special education department. … Build relationships with special education departments and show them the value you bring,” Moorehead said.
The panel also addressed the challenges faced by transportation teams, from managing sensitive medical information to maintaining student safety during emergencies.
“There needs to be a chain of custody for medication on the bus. A backpack is not the best place,” Robinson said. “And confidentiality is critical. Drivers shouldn’t be discussing a student’s medication or behavior over the radio.”
Vann-Jackson emphasized the importance of selecting the right people for the job. “Drivers and attendants need to have patience, compassion and the ability to work with children from all backgrounds. If someone tells me they don’t like kids, I tell them UPS is hiring,” she said.
She continued, “It’s not just about attendance and whether we can count on that driver or attendant. It’s about temperament. They need to be able to communicate back to children with patience. We have to provide tools and resources, and they have to be willing to take on those tools and resources.”
Technology and training also play key roles in enhancing the transportation experience. Moorehead highlighted the use of artificial intelligence and other innovations to better understand students’ needs. “The children who need us the most are the ones we can know the most about, thanks to technology,” she added.
The panelists closed the discussion with a call to action: Involve transportation teams early and often in the educational process.
Robinson shared the poignant example of a 22-year-old student whose love for school kept him alive beyond his expected lifespan. “Transportation professionals are part of that IEP team, and what we do matters. Don’t hesitate to speak up and demand the resources you need to provide the best possible service for these students,” she told audience members.
She cautioned, “The reason districts or contractors get into trouble is they know something is important and they don’t ask for it or demand it.”
In the end, the message was clear that pupil transportation is about more than simply getting students with disabilities and special needs from Point A to Point B; it’s about ensuring they arrive ready to learn, grow and thrive.
Law enforcement and security expert Bret E. Brooks will address two facets of the safety and security discussion for student transportation at STN EXPO East.
Brooks has spoken on emergency management, threat detection and violence preparedness at various STN conferences. He will present two sessions in Concord, North Carolina this March. The first session Friday, March 21, “Understanding Violence in Modern Society and the Impact on School Transportation,” will give attendees an in-depth exploration into the complexities of violence in today’s society, including the impact of technology and media. Using real-world examples, data and expert perspectives, Brooks will explain how attendees can equip themselves with strategies to not only address violence in their communities but prevent it and collaborate to build a safer society that translates to safer routes to and from school.
The second general session, “Creating a Bus Captain Program for School Buses,” will be held on Saturday, March 22. This interactive session looks at how to create a successful school bus advocacy program that can not only aid safety efforts but provide a leadership role for students and encourage positive, respectful behavior of their peers and student transportation staff.
Attendees will receive a breakdown of designing and implementing a bus captain program, including details such as program development, age- appropriate responsibilities, communication and evaluation strategies. Brooks will explain how to reach the program goal of equipping students to be role-models, assist drivers and contribute to a safe bus environment.
Brooks is the senior consultant with Gray Ram Tactical and the training coordinator and policy advisor for the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
Register by Feb. 14 to save $100 on main conference registration with Early Bird Savings. Browse conference agenda, explore unique experiences and register at stnexpo.com/east.
Leo eagerly waved to his school bus driver, excited for the weekend ahead. His plan: attend a high school football game that night and a birthday party on Saturday. He could hardly wait. Unfortunately, a motorist could hardly wait for Leo’s bus to pick him up and hurried past, spoiling Leo’s excitement – and his weekend fun.
What really happened? Did Leo’s enthusiasm lead to the event? Was the school bus stopped? Stop arm extended?
So many questions, so few answers. But the district obtained answers within minutes thanks to their fleet management solution’s automated features and a stop-arm camera system.
Now, to address stop-arm violations like the district, your operation would need to integrate these reliable REI products: an AI Stop-Arm Violation Camera, one or two license plate cameras, a sensor harness, an HD6 DVR and ARMOR Software Suite, the cloud-based, wireless fleet management solution.
Together, the products would capture data and HD images with little to no effort from your team. Here’s how:
The AI Camera would see a motorist enter its detection zone while the stop arm was out and automatically mark the video on your DVR.
The marker would automatically prompt ARMOR to download the violation video from your DVR.
ARMOR would also be prompted to send event alerts to your team to initiate a timely investigation.
Your license plate camera(s) would capture images of the violator’s license plate(s).
All images and metadata would be saved in ARMOR, ready for review and sharing by your operation shortly after the incident.
Wouldn’t you like to resolve events quickly? Provide greater peace of mind for parents, students and your district? Streamline your fleet management to save time and money? REI solutions make it possible.
Using the integrated solutions, Leo’s district verified the stop-arm violation by an impatient driver. Also confirmed: Leo’s bus had completely stopped, and its flashing stop arm was fully extended. Even so, the motorist’s speed made it impossible for Leo to avoid her. Luckily, he escaped the potentially catastrophic event with a broken arm due to the motorist’s side mirror.
The breathtaking incident happened on a quiet, two-lane highway near Leo’s home. It’s just one of the estimated 250,000+ illegal stop-arm passings that occur on a single day, according to a National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services survey. So, the need for violation detection exists.
Imagine having powerful tools to help deter, prevent and resolve stop-arm violations quickly. Think of the time, effort and stress you’d save. The savings and safety benefits could be transformative for your operation.
There’s no time to wait!
For more information about this solution, or a more advanced stop-arm solution, contact REI.
The views expressed are those of the content sponsor and do not reflect those of School Transportation News.
As the 2025 year commences, students were hit — and one was killed — while walking to their bus stops in Florida communities.
On Jan. 10, a teenager later identified as Maslin Mooney was a victim of a hit and run while walking to his bus stop, St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office posted on Facebook. The Sheriff’s office stated that Mooney was discovered by a passerby at approximately 6:45 a.m. Lifesaving efforts were immediately initiated, and he was transported to a trauma center by air ambulance.
The Sheriff’s Office added that the preliminary investigation revealed Mooney was walking to his bus stop — the scheduled pick up was at 6:08 a.m. — but never made it to the location. As of Jan. 12, the Sheriff’s Office stated investigators identified and interviewed the suspect and seized the vehicle.
First Baptist Church of Hastings stated via its Facebook page, that Mooney was on the ground unconscious until a citizen discovered him and called first responders. His injuries included two broken legs, the right tibia and left femur, that required surgery, a broken right wrist, extensive dental damage, and a brain bleed. He is expected to remain in the hospital for four to six weeks with a recovery window of four to six months.
As of Jan. 16, the church posted Facebook update that Mooney was making remarkable progress and is improving by “leaps and bounds.” He has since moved out of the ICU and was scheduled to be transferred to a rehabilitation facility.
Meanwhile, about 32 miles North in Jacksonville, Florida, an Atlantic Coast High School student died on Jan. 17, after being struck by a vehicle while trying to get her school bus stop. A GoFundMe page created for the family of Alondra Martinez, 16, said the girl was crossing the street toward her school bus stop when a speeding car struck her. The motorist who hit Martinez reportedly stopped and took her to a nearby medical facility, then stayed there and called the police.
Martinez reportedly died in the hospital from her injuries.
No information had been posted on the Duval County Public Schools website or the Sheriff’s Office regarding the incident. However, local media reported that it was unknown if Martinez was walking in a marked crosswalk.
Jacksonville.com reported that the night before Martinez was killed, First Coast News spoke with Superintendent Christopher Bernier about a new safety campaign, “Be safe, be seen,” which was launched due to the number of motorists hitting students as they made their way to and from school.
“We’ve had three fatalities this year with young people being hit to and from school,” Bernier stated via the article.
Earlier this week in Tampa, Florida, an 11-year-old died after being hit by a car while getting off a school bus. A local news article states the girl had just exited the school bus and was walking alongside the road when she was hit. The unidentified student was rushed to the hospital with serious injuries and died Tuesday night.
Following Britton Smith’s resignation in September, Blue Bird tapped John Wyskiel as his replacement, effective Feb. 17.
Smith was slated to take over CEO and president last Sept. 29, as current CEO Phil Horlock was set to retire. However, Smith announced his resignation just weeks prior. Horlock, who served as president and CEO from 2011 to 2021 and then again in May 2023 remained as CEO, as the company sought a replacement.
John Wyskiel will become president and CEO of Blue Bird on Feb. 17.
Enter Wyskiel, an automotive industry veteran with over “35 years of experience in manufacturing leadership, operational excellence and global sales and supply chain management,” stated a Blue Bird press release on Wednesday.
From 2002 to 2004, Wyskiel served as the general manager of Blue Bird Coach in Canada, part of Blue Bird Corporation. According to a press release it was one of the largest school bus body and assembly manufacturers of Type C and Type A school buses located in Brantford, Ontario. Blue Bird Coach Canada was not a part of Blue Bird’s joint venture with Girardin to build Micro Bird models in Quebec.
Wyskiel then embarked on a 20-year career at Magna International, most recently serving as president of Magna Seating. There, he led a $6 billion business with 33,000 employees across more than 60 manufacturing facilities in 15 counties. He also served as vice president of Magna’s Body & Structures business in Canada and the U.S.
“His extensive background includes various senior roles in manufacturing, operations, engineering, product management and sales at automotive suppliers Magna, Dana Corporation and Borg Warner,” the Blue Bird press release adds.
“I’m thrilled to return to Blue Bird, an iconic American company,” Wyskiel stated. “I’m passionate about building scalable operations and leading high-performance teams to drive continuous improvement. I look forward to working with the entire Blue Bird team and dealer network to execute our strategic initiatives and to deliver sustained profitable growth.”
Wyskiel will also join the Blue Bird board of directors on Feb. 17. Horlock will remain on the board to ensure a smooth transition.
“John’s deep and varied expertise in operational excellence and manufacturing leadership makes him an ideal fit for this role at this time,” said Doug Grimm, chairman of Blue Bird Corporation. “His proven track record will be invaluable as we expand our footprint and improve our operational processes to support our customers.”
A crash between a tow truck and a school bus in Louisiana left four children and one adult injured. The bus driver helped save a child from being injured during the crash, reported KSLA News.
The incident reportedly occurred on Thursday morning when a school bus had stopped to pick up a child and a tow truck crashed into the back of it. According to the news report, seven kids and the driver were on the bus when the vehicle was hit.
Police stated via the article that the bus driver saved a child who was trying to get on the bus just moments before it was hit. Although the actions of the driver were not specified in this writing, officers say that without the driver’s intervention the child could have fallen out of the bus and been hit by the tow truck.
Four children were reportedly sent to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and the tow truck driver was transported to a hospital with life-threatening injuries.
Deputies added via the news report that the sun made it difficult for the tow truck driver to see the stopped bus. Authorities did not immediately identify those involved in the crash, the investigation remains ongoing.
With the increased usage of non-yellow vehicles transporting students, the National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services (NASDPTS) released a position paper that stated in no uncertain terms, vans and other alternative transportation vehicles should not be used in place of school buses.
“Using vehicles other than school buses compromises student safety and heightens the potential for disastrous crashes with student injuries and fatalities,” stated the guidance issued Wednesday. “Thus, alternative transportation should be avoided except when completely necessary to meet specific students’ school transportation needs and when proper oversight and safety regulations are established.”
Still, NASPDTS recognized that many school districts nationwide are actively using vans and alternative transportation services. NASDPTS said the the purpose of the document is to serve as a guide in response to the “ever-expanding” need for alternative transportation services for student populations and as a resource for districts looking to utilize non- yellow vehicles.
The paper referenced the congressional School Bus Safety Amendments of 1974 [Title II – School Bus Safety of Public Law 93-492] of that resulted in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) issuance of safety standards that applied to all school buses built starting in April 1977. It also created regulations for school bus driver training and licensing to ensure that school buses would be a safer means of transportation than a standard passenger vehicle.
NASPDTS also quoted a 2002 NHTSA research document on School Bus Crashworthiness. “American students are nearly eight times safer riding in a school bus than with their own parents or guardians in cars. The fatality rate for school buses is only 0.2 fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles traveled (VMT) compared to 1.5 fatalities per 100 million VMT for cars,” the report reads in part.
NASDPTS listed multiple safety features of the yellow school bus, including its high visibility iconic yellow color, compartmentalization of students in padded and high seat backs, large vehicle size that reduces crash forces on passengers, emergency exits, rollover protection, child restraint systems, stop arms, and other FMVSS standards that increase the safety of students onboard the bus.
“According to NHTSA, these standards and regulations are why students are 70 times more likely to get to school safely when taking a school bus instead of a car,” stated the report, noting the safety records of school buses versus other vehicles. “The impressive safety standards indicate that the school bus should always be the first option for transporting students, with every effort to make that form of transportation occur.”
A definition of alternative transportation was “defined as the transportation of students in any vehicle that is not a Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS)-defined school bus, Multifunction School Activity Bus (MFSAB), Commercial Motor Coach, or Transit Bus defined by the Federal Transit administration (FTA).” The position paper noted that the increased demand for these van and passenger car vehicles is due in part to high demand for transporting students protected by McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act and students with disabilities who have individualized education programs, the ever-present driver shortage, and “less stringent” driver and vehicle requirements. To meet this demand, a growing market has emerged.
As also noted by the National Association for Pupil Transportation’s statement on this topic last year, NASDPTS expressed concern about the lack of safety requirements for alternative vehicles as well as the individuals driving them. These concerns include drivers not being required to possess a CDL, which could then enable them to bypass federally required criminal background checks, regular physical fitness examinations, and annual alcohol and drug testing, extensive training, certification and “continuous reviews for disqualifying driving infractions.”
Questions also arise such as are vans being serviced regularly? Are they outfitted with the latest safety equipment? Are they undergoing similar vehicle inspections as school buses?
The guidance for drivers of alternative transportation vehicles included recommended background checks, child protective clearances, emergency training procedures, vetted license and driving history credentials, annual training, drug and alcohol testing, regular physicals to ensure medical fitness to transport students, restriction of use of mobile devices, special training if transporting a student with an Individual Education Plan (IEP). Vehicles themselves should be equipped with signage to identify it as a student transportation vehicle, be regularly inspected to ensure proper functionality and safety and include necessary safety equipment.
Federal laws clarify that a vehicle transporting 11 or more persons, including the driver, is classified as a bus and then as a school bus, “if it is used, or intended for use, in transporting students to and from school or school-related activities.” The paper continued that federal law also prohibits school districts and county and state governments from renting, leasing or purchasing new 11-15 passenger vans that don’t meet FMVSS school bus or multifunction school activity bus standards for the purpose of transporting students to and from school or school related activities.
While the position paper looks to state and local government to regulate the use of a vehicle after its sold, it notes examples of van manufacturers providing written notification to their dealers on the prohibition of selling such vehicles to school districts. In some cases, a federal certification label of “Not School Bus” is affixed. NASDPTS also noted that this regulation does not currently extend to used vans.
The paper continued that vehicle dealers might be ignorant of these regulations or ignore them. Either way, a “non-conforming” full-sized van that has not been built to meet FMVSS school bus safety standards and is involved in a crash could leave the operating school district or transportation company liable for damages and could impact insurance coverage, depending on the policy. NASPDTS also noted that NHTSA has investigated and subsequently fined dealers that it found violated the law and sold vans to school districts, an action NASDPTS said it supports and encourages people to report sale or lease violations.
A letter from NHTSA and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to chief state highway officials on Dec. 2, 2010, included observations on the lack of certain safety features on vans, as well as recommended alerts on safety related hazards to be sent to owners of passenger vans and vehicle inspectors.
“In addition, we would like to take this opportunity to remind all [state] commissioners that pre-primary, elementary and secondary schools should not use 12 or 15-passenger vans for transporting students because they do not provide the same level of safety as school buses meeting NHTSA’s safety standards,” the letter stated.
While NASDPTS recognized that a school bus may not always be the most feasible method of transportation, it emphasized the importance of preventing the use of non-conforming vans through strict state requirements that vans meet school bus structural and safety standards.
The NASDPTS paper included an analysis of state laws regarding the use of alternative vehicles. A survey to all 50 states asked if the state has “school transportation laws regarding the use of 12 and 15- passenger vans for travel to and from school?” Twelve states said no, with the rest saying yes. The survey also asked if there were state laws regarding the use of 12- and 15- passenger vans for travel to and from school-related events, to which 13 states said no.
NASDPTS added that states should “enact regulatory measures to enforce compliance with the revised statutes.” They also noted that school districts are sometimes unaware of these regulations and that a combined effort between “state and local student transportation officials, state associations, insurance companies, van manufacturers, automobile dealers, and rental car companies” to inform districts on laws regarding the purchase of vans to transport students as well as safety liabilities is recommended.
NASDPTS President Mike Stier thanked President-Elect Tyler Bryan and his committee for their extensive work on the paper.
DENVER — EverDriven, the leader in Alternative Student Transportation, is proud to announce its expansion into Minnesota, offering cutting-edge technology and simplified operations to school districts and non-profits across the state. This expansion marks EverDriven’s entry into its 34th state.
With nearly 700 school district contracts nationwide, EverDriven continues to redefine student transportation by addressing critical challenges such as bus driver shortages, long commute times, and the unique needs of vulnerable student populations. This expansion into Minnesota ensures students with unique needs, disabilities, or experiencing homelessness have access to safe, reliable rides to school.
“As we grow, we’re excited to bring our solutions to new communities and create opportunities for students and their families,” said Mitch Bowling, CEO of EverDriven. “We look forward to partnering with school districts across Minnesota to ensure every student, regardless of their circumstances, has a dependable way to safely get to school and unlock their full potential.”
Data from a 2024 report from Minnesota Alliance With Youth shows a decline in attendance rates post-pandemic, affecting local student outcomes and graduation rates. Further, Playworks Minnesota describes chronic absenteeism as a serious issue in Minnesota schools, with one in four students regularly missing class. Accessible transportation solutions, like those offered by EverDriven, play a critical role in addressing chronic absenteeism by reducing barriers to attendance.
EverDriven’s entry into Minnesota includes key offerings such as its industry-leading District Portal, EverDriven Camera Solution, and enhanced VIP app for parents and school staff, ensuring safety and transparency at every turn.
“Our technology and services aim to alleviate some of the transportation challenges districts face today,” said Bowling. “Our EverDriven Camera Solution provides high-resolution interior and exterior recordings with secure access for authorized personnel, while the upgraded VIP app and District Portal offer GPS-enabled trip updates, driver information, and streamlined operations for districts and schools. EverDriven ensures a secure and efficient experience from start to finish.”
Minnesota’s school districts are now positioned to benefit from EverDriven’s tailored approach, which includes specialized services for students with unique needs, those under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, foster care, and out-of-district placements. By partnering with EverDriven, districts gain a trusted ally in reducing chronic absenteeism and ensuring every student has access to learning opportunities.
To learn more about EverDriven and how its solutions are transforming student transportation, visit https://www.everdriven.com/technology/.
About EverDriven
EverDriven is the leader in Alternative Student Transportation for school districts nationwide. With nearly 700 school district contracts and over 28,000 students served last year alone, EverDriven has established itself as a nationwide leader in safety and technology-enabled Alternative Student Transportation. Leveraging proprietary routing technology and customized transportation services, the company has been instrumental in addressing driver shortages, helping reduce chronic absenteeism, accommodating varying bell times, and serving unique student needs related to the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, special needs, ESSA, hard-to-serve trips, and out-of-district placements. For more information, visit everdriven.com.
A kindergartener is in the hospital after being struck by a truck while exiting his school bus in Missouri, reported KFVS News.
The incident reportedly occurred on Monday Jan.13, when the 6-year-old, who was not identified at this writing, was getting off the school bus and was hit by a passing vehicle.
According to the news report, the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) responded to the crash. Officers said via the article that a 19-year-old man was driving his truck southbound when he tried to stop, but his vehicle began sliding. That’s when he hit the 6-year-old.
When EMS arrived at the scene of the incident, Stg. Clark Parrott from the MSHP reportedly stated the child was conscious and alert.
The child’s father told local news reporters his son had a broken pelvis and a broken femur due to the incident. Additionally, the child had a small bleed on his brain that doctors were keeping an eye on.
The TD Summit begins on Friday, March 21 with a Transportation Director leadership discussion on the unique operational challenges of the student transportation industry, facilitated by STN President and Publisher Tony Corpin. This late afternoon event will also include a networking mixer with appetizers and drinks.
On Saturday, participants will be transported to Topgolf for a full day of networking with a special presentation from STN EXPO East keynote speaker, Scott Welle. He will present an exclusive training to directors on the role and responsibilities of being a leader in this industry and empowering strategies to model best practices.
While at Topgolf, participants will enjoy golfing, food and drinks while discussing their operational needs and challenges with vendor partners. Following the event, participants will be transported back to Embassy Suites for the Road to the Championship Networking Reception, a fun-filled, basketball-themed evening to network with conference attendees.
To attend this exclusive event, applicants must hold the position of transportation director or a qualified equivalent. They must be actively involved with leadership decisions at their operations, providing input on purchasing decisions, driver training and creating policies and procedures.
Applicants must be able to attend both days of the Summit. The STN EXPO East Early Bird Savings ends on Feb. 14, register by the deadline to save $100 off full conference registration. Register, browse conference agenda and explore unique experiences at stnexpo.com/east.
A Florida man was arrested after he allegedly exposed himself to students while they were riding a school bus home, reported ABC News.
According to the article, the incident took place on Thursday, when several students told their parents that a male was exposing himself in a car next to the bus.
Police said via the news report that one of the students submitted an anonymous tip, including a video of the incident. The male was identified as 36-year-old Freddy Richie Parisi, and the vehicle he was driving was shown on the video, including the tag number.
The parents reportedly contacted authorities immediately to report the incident and deputies launched the investigation. A detective then identified Paisi from conducting sex offender checks and worked with school resources officers to identify the other victims who witnessed the incident.
According to the news report, Parisi was arrested for five counts of lewd and lascivious exhibition and is being held at the Citrus County Detention Facility without bond.
We analyze concern over possible U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids at bus stops, an increase in the number of McKinney-Vento students, and the incoming Trump administration’s impact on green vehicle mandates.
Transfinder President & CEO Antonio Civitella joins us for a review of 2024 technology trends and a look ahead to 2025, including special experiences planned for the upcoming STN EXPO East in Charlotte, NC, and the company’s Annual Client Summit.
Did you know? One in three students who receive school transportation are taking a bus routed using Transfinder technology.
A Florida man and registered sex offender is behind bars once again after police arrested him for loitering near children at a school bus stop.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office released a statement via social media confirming the arrest of 37-year-old Jonathan Louis of Poinciana, after a witness noticed the man standing amongst small children at a school bus stop on Friday morning. The witness reportedly felt that something was not quite right about the man.
According to the statement, police were contacted by the witness and deputies made contact with the suspect who was identified as Louis. Louis is a registered sex offender since a conviction in Lake County back in 2004 for Lewd and Lavarious Battery. The victims were 12 and 15-year-old.
Officers learned that Louis lived near the bus stop, but he had no children who went to school. Louis was unable to provide deputies with a reason why he was spending time at a school bus stop.
After his release in December 2024, Louis failed to notify his parole officer where he was residing. He was arrested and taken into the Polk County jail where he was charged with Violation of Probation for Failure to Register and Loitering by Sex Offender within 300-feet of Children.
Are you struggling to hire school bus drivers, mechanics or other transportation professionals for your district or company? Are you confident that your team would recommend working at your organization? These are tough but essential questions for industry leaders to address as the school transportation industry grapples with worker shortages and rising competition from other industries.
The success of any school transportation department hinges on recruiting the right talent, fostering effective teams, and creating a positive, supportive workplace culture. However, achieving these goals is no simple task. In today’s competitive job market, it’s crucial to have strategies in place that not only attract talent but also retain them for the long term.
One of the most powerful tools for building a high-performing culture is positive reinforcement. Recognizing and celebrating your employees’ hard work can have a profound effect on morale, motivation and job satisfaction. When staff members feel appreciated, they are more likely to stay engaged and continue performing at a high level.
Recognition programs can be effective. I suggest offering a retention bonus once or twice a year for transportation staff. As a result, morale will likely improve as well as attendance and overall service quality. The transportation staff really appreciate the bonuses, especially with the cost of necessities rising. I also encourage you to empower your staff to advocate for your district or company, helping spread the word that your organization is a great place to work and telling others about the available incentives. As the industry faces persistent shortages, ensuring your compensation package is competitive can help you stand out from other employers.
Other forms of recognition can include monthly appreciation meals, holiday gifts like turkeys or pies, or simply a note of thanks. These small gestures contribute to a positive and welcoming work environment, which is key to retention. Last month, Cody Cox, transportation director at Royse City Independent School District in Texas, recognized his transportation team on LinkedIn. “Royce City is such an awesome district. We are fully staffed. However, with our fast growth we are always adding more team members!”
Cox shared pictures of holiday decorations, food and a hot chocolate bar. He noted the importance of culture and invited potential candidates to apply for a position in his department.
Offering competitive salaries and benefits is crucial for attracting and retaining high-quality school bus drivers and mechanics. School transportation jobs are demanding, and it’s important that your compensation packages are on par with other industries offering similar roles.
Investing in technology and modern equipment is critical for attracting drivers and mechanics. Make sure your district is outfitted with the latest technology newer buses, routing software, GPS systems and quality support staff. Visible investments in your workplace and equipment signal to prospective employees that their work environment is valued.
Prospective employees, especially drivers and mechanics, are more likely to join an organization that demonstrates an ongoing commitment to safety, efficiency and technological advancement. Newer, well-maintained vehicles not only make the job easier and safer but also give drivers a sense of pride in the equipment they operate. Furthermore, modern routing software and GPS systems can make routes more efficient, reducing driver stress and helping improve on-time performance.
A supportive, collaborative culture is essential for retaining school transportation personnel. Create a workplace where employees feel valued, supported and part of a cohesive team. This can be achieved through ongoing training and professional development, supportive leadership and clear communication. When employees know they can voice their concerns and have them addressed, they are more likely to stay.
To address the specific challenges of attracting school bus drivers and mechanics, you’ll need to implement recruitment strategies that speak directly to their unique needs and concerns like flexible schedules, certifications and specialized training programs for those looking to advance their careers. Create a clear career path for advancement.
Investing in your employees by offering recognition, competitive pay and a supportive and safe work environment will build a team that is committed, motivated and ready to meet the challenges of the future.
Editor’s Note: As reprinted in the January 2025 issue of School Transportation News.
A crash involving a Waltham school bus in Massachusetts sent six students to the hospital with minor injuries.
The Waltham Police Department released a statement via social media confirming that officers had responded to a rollover incident involving a school bus on Friday morning.
According to police, the bus was transporting students to Waltham Public Schools northbound on Lexington Street just before 8:30 a.m., when it struck a white van that was attempting to make a left turn East onto Beaver Street.
Police stated that the van rolled over onto a third vehicle on Beaver Street, that was stopped for a red light.
According to local news reports, there were 34 students and a driver from the Waltham Dual Language School on the school bus at the time of the incident. A total of 37 people, including those in the other vehicles, were involved in the crash.
Six students and the operator of the white van were transported to local area hospitals for minor injuries. Their current condition is unknown. According to the police, the incident is still under investigation to determine charges, if any.
A school bus emergency that requires evacuation becomes even more multi-faceted when the unique needs of students with special needs or disabilities are factored in. At the 2024 Transporting Students with Disabilities and Special Needs Conference (TSD) Conference, attendees of the Hands-on School Bus Evacuations for Students with Special Needs & Preschoolers class encountered this in real time during.
The TSD Conference brings together student transporters, special educators and other stakeholders for collaboration, education, networking and the critical hands-on training needed for those transporting our most precious cargo. Due to increased interest, two evacuation classes were held at the conference, one on Nov. 9 and one on Nov. 10. Both were hosted by Frisco Independent School District.
Launi Schmutz-Harden, industry consultant and TSD Tenured Faculty member, was one of the instructors for the class. Her many years in transportation have given her unique insight into the impact of emergency training. She noted the importance of collaboration when developing emergency response training. She listed meetings with emergency personnel, occupational & physical therapists, nurses, teachers and parents all as invaluable when determining an effective strategy to keep students and staff safe during emergency situations.
STN reached out to attendees who participated in the evacuation class to document their experiences. One such attendee was Joe Boyles, a school bus driver driver-trainer for the Montana Association for Pupil Transportation (MAPT). He had been driving a non-yellow school bus since 2013 and began operating his first yellow school bus route in 2023. His experience driving a bus with students with special needs only began last August. He explained that there was a need for a driver-trainer specifically for drivers of special education routes, which led him to attend the TSD Conference.
“I registered for the evacuation training because I have a student in a wheelchair and I did not have any training on evacuating a student in a wheelchair,” said Boyles. “I know that evacuations are a challenge any time, but I felt that if I got this training, I could bring it back to our district as well as create my own training for MAPT.
Misty Horttor, the route coordinator for Elko County School District in Nevada, said her experience working with students with special needs began in 2017, when she applied for a job as a substitute bus aide on for special education routes. Her career progressed to school bus driver, then driver-trainer, and she now serves in not only as route coordinator but site supervisor and lead trainer. She learned about the TSD Conference while attending STN EXPO West in Reno, Nevada.
She said the evacuation greatly interested her as “our drivers, especially our new drivers, are always intimidated by the thought of evacuation and evacuation drills. If there is a way to help them become more confident in their abilities, I am all for it.”
Both Boyles and Hortter said they received a wealth of information from the class. The classroom part of the evacuation class also includes a quiz for participants.
“The classroom part was great in that I needed the information to make the practical part make more sense. If you know the why we are doing this, the practice and practical part makes more sense,” said Boyles. “Coming up with an evacuation plan was probably the most informative for me. I needed to do one for my bus and this training gave me the information I needed to write that evacuation plan.”
“One of the most rewarding aspects of teaching this class is witnessing the attendees engage in brainstorming sessions to develop evacuation plans,” added Harden. “Their passion for their work and commitment to the children they support often leads to emotional moments, underscoring the importance of this training.”
The hands-on training has participants enter a bus filled with theater smoke to mimic conditions during an on-board fire. The vehicle also contains dolls representing student riders with various special needs and disabilities. Using fire extinguishers and other tools, attendees implement evacuation plans to safely remove the students. Horttor said she rescued a student in a car seat, using belt cutters, evacuated a student with a blanket and other challenging scenarios.
A TSD Conference evacuation class participant exits the bus with a doll that was used to represent a student rider. (Photo by Kristine Hannon)
“You have no idea how disorienting the smoke will be until you are in the bus,” noted Horttor. “How difficult it is to sweep the whole bus to make sure no one was missed and how staggering it can feel to realize that in a real situation, which I’m sure would be a hundred times more stressful, you would have lost an actual child. It was an eye-opening experience that I would love to try with all of our drivers.”
Boyles noted how he appreciated the smoke for the added realism, saying, “It was a real eye opener for me. To be able to search a bus while keeping low is a lot harder than you would think. Knowing it was practice helped me to not panic and make a thorough search. I just hope that if I ever need to do a search, I can keep calm and be thorough.”
Horttor noted the importance of having an evacuation plan and practicing it is often underestimated by many. Engaging in the training at TSD also provided valuable input from student transportation professionals from other operations across the country that are facing their own unique challenges, she said. “This training made us think about the what ifs, including some what ifs that haven’t crossed our minds. But thanks to our very knowledgeable instructors, we hope these situations never happen, but we have plans in case they do.”
Harden shared feedback she received from Ann Taylor, coordinator of transportation at Clay County Schools in Florida, who has attended the evacuation class three times. “She appreciates the collaborative learning environment, where students share valuable insights with one another,” said Harden.
Harden continued that many participants of the class are using the information they learned at the TSD evacuation class at their operations in such states as California, Delaware, Florida, Oregon and Texas.
“As this was the first national training I have ever been to, I did not know what to expect. I was a bit overwhelmed as I am a new special needs driver,” said Boyles. “I truly believe that I gained much information that I will be able to use at our school district. I can also use that information in training other drivers across the state of Montana.”
Boyles continued “I will say that I learned so much at this conference that I am very glad I attended. I got so much information that I hope to use in the future at our school district. I plan to have a meeting with the Transportation Director about things we can implement and make our buses safer and have our drivers better trained. I would suggest to everyone, only change one thing at a time.”
Horttor summed up her experience saying, “I feel better about the training we are providing to our drivers as well as the things I can add to our training program in the future to hopefully help our drivers become more knowledgeable and confident in their ability to handle the situations that may come with this job.”
Harden noted the importance of registering for trainings early due to high demand and not underestimating the amount of time that should be spent on continuing the training.
“It is crucial to understand the importance of practicing evacuations with students, as it can take up to a year for them to learn how to exit safely in an emergency. For some students, the height of the backdoor can be daunting, akin to jumping from a two-story building. Planning and practicing is essential for the students that ride the bus,” said Harden. “This training is crucial at TSD, which serves as a comprehensive resource for those involved in transporting students with disabilities. We discuss real-life scenarios and ensure that all attendees are prepared for emergencies.”
A parent is demanding answers after her 3-year-old was left on a school bus in a snowy depot alone for hours, reported WTOC News.
Talia Anderson told local news reporters that the incident took place midday Jan.10, after her daughter Aziyah was picked up by the school bus to go to preschool at Richton Square Elementary in Richton Park, Illinois.
Hours later, the school reportedly called Anderson asking why Aziyah was not in attendance. The mother worried about her daughter’s well-being. Sometime later, the superintendent called Anderson back saying Aziyah had fallen asleep on the way to preschool and was found on her school bus at the depo in Country Club Hills.
According to the news report, Anderson stated she was very frustrated because of this incident and questioned how they could leave a 3-year-old behind.
A spokesperson for Matteson School District said via the article that Aziyah was not delivered to the school and instead was unknowingly transported back to the bus depot. The bus driver involved in the matter will no longer provide services for District 162 because safety policies and procedures were not followed.
The Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo is back in Anaheim, California, with sessions that focus on helping fleets navigate the evolving landscape of clean technologies and policies, including one on school buses.
This year’s school bus session, School Bus Sector: Rolling out the New Generation of School Buses, is scheduled for Wednesday, April 30. The session seeks to give attendees insights into best practices of real-world school fleets, using private and public funds, exploring the environmental and health benefits, and discussing emerging technologies such as V2G. No speakers for the school bus session were announced at this report.
Attendees will also have the option to attend a Ride & Drive, browse the exhibit floor and attend keynote sessions, as well as the various other breakout sessions slated for the conference held April 28-May 1.
“As fleets enter 2025, there are more questions than ever about the state of the clean vehicle industry, which technologies are really working, how to achieve a positive [total cost of ownership] and a whole lot more. ACT Expo is the place where fleets can cut through the chaos and gain clarity on the best technologies and strategies to improve operational efficiency, drive sustainability, and gain a competitive advantage,” stated Erik Neandross, president of Clean Transportation Solutions at TRC, the producers of ACT Expo. “Our educational sessions are truly the best in the industry; we provide fleets with the tools to build a roadmap for the future that combines innovation with practical, real-world solutions and demonstrated expertise provided by other fleet operators.”
The Trump administration has said it will repeal any federal zero-emissions vehicle mandates and prioritize increased development of internal combustion vehicles. Sue Gander, director of WRI’s Electric School Bus Initiative, added that “the incoming Administration has signaled its plans to roll back clean vehicle regulations, including potentially the California waivers,” she said. “These waivers, including ones that impact school buses, play an important role for air quality in California and a number of other states and rescinding them would be a setback.
Already, the California Air Resources Board withdrew its request for federal approval for stricter emissions rules for locomotives and semi-trucks. The rule would have phased out the sale of new diesel trucks and buses by 2036. Transport Topics reported that CARB pulled back because U.S. Environmental Protection Agency had yet to approve the request and that even if it had already done so the Trump administration would rescind it.
CARB already received an EPA waiver for the Omnibus Lo-NOX regulation that includes school buses. NOx emissions must be reduced by 75 percent for model-year 2024 through 2026 engines.
Meanwhile, ACT Expo keynote speakers for this year will be announced this month, with the full roster expected in February.
The 2024 event was at the Las Vegas Convention Center and more than 12,000 commercial transportation professionals attended. TRC stated that as the event returns to Anaheim, “it will feature roughly twice the expo hall space of the 2023 Anaheim event to accommodate the increasing number of exhibitors, advanced vehicles and clean transportation solutions on display in the exhibit hall.”
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