Ron Kinney hopes California’s student injury data in school bus crashes serves as a blueprint for the rest of the U.S. to adopt lap/shoulder seatbelts.

When California became the first state in the nation to implement lap/shoulder seatbelts on school buses in 2004, many in the industry viewed the occupant restraints as unnecessary luxury items. But 20 years of data now tells a much more compelling story, resulting in injury declines and calmer school bus interiors for drivers.

Kinney, who served as state director of school transportation for the California Department of Education from 1983-1997, compiled 30 years of crash data from the California Highway Patrol’s annual “School Bus Crash and Pupil Passenger Injury Summary Report.” Kinney tracked the 10 years prior to and 20 years after the state law went into effect in 2002 that requires all newly purchased school buses after July 1, 2025 be equipped with lap/shoulder seatbelts.

The law led to the development of the current FMVSS 222 requirements for lap/shoulder seatbelts in all Type A school buses nationwide.

Kinney’s data calculates a 74.5 percent decrease in the absolute number of school pupil passenger injuries since 2004. In terms of passenger injuries “per million vehicle miles” traveled, the report tracked a 45.5 percent decrease over the past 20 years.

Meanwhile, the data finds that as the percentage of California school buses equipped with lap/shoulder belts increased incrementally since 2004, “it is reasonable to believe that school pupil passenger injuries will continue to decrease as more school buses equipped with lap/shoulder belts are added to the state fleet.”

Nine of the 10 years prior to the implementation of lap/shoulder seatbelts, student passenger injuries ranged between 425 and 760 per school year, with the height of injuries being 1,112 in the year 2000. There was no information on why the injuries spiked. But 2000 also saw the most school buses on the road (26,291) and the highest number of miles traveled (367,893,624) during that 10-year period before seatbelts.

Meanwhile, in the 20 years after the lap/shoulder seatbelt law went into effect, injuries declined. In 2005, 400 students were injured. During the 2013-2014 school year, 266 injuries were reported. Injuries dropped to 136 the following year. However, the 2015-2016 school year saw a spike to 313 injuries, with the most school buses on the road (28,982) and miles traveled (283,812,564) in the 20-year span. Those resulted in the most school bus crashes (1,886) as well. The 2023-2024 school year, the most recent data collected, saw 131 passenger injuries.

The report states that several factors need consideration when attempting to draw conclusions from the data. These include lap/shoulder belts having a positive impact in reducing pupil passenger injuries per million miles, California’s reduction in regular education home-to-school transportation, and expansion of special education home-to-school transportation.

Additionally, the report cites the increased number of California school buses equipped with lap/shoulder belts and the number of pupil passengers wearing lap/shoulder belts. Kinney writes that the reduction of driver distractions from pupil passengers who are now belted in and less able to misbehave has led to a reduction in driver turnover. The reduction in disciplinary problems and driver distractions also reduces the risk of crashes caused by driver errors.

“This also contributes to reduced driver turnover by creating a safer, less stressful and more rewarding work environment,” the report states. “By physically containing students, these belts address the primary stressors that lead drivers to leave the profession.”

The report also touches on the National Transportation Safety Board investigation into the 2014 Anaheim, California school bus crash, which resulted in a school bus leaving the roadway and striking a concrete light post after the driver fell unconscious. The bus continued up an embarkment and struck an uprooted tree.

NTSB crash simulations found that students sitting in row eight, where the tree intruded into the school bus cabin, would have experienced greater injuries had they not been wearing lap/shoulder seatbelts.

Related: NTSB Calls for Seatbelt Polices, Procedures Following Texas School Bus Crash
Related: Illinois Bill Advances to Require Lap/Shoulder Seatbelts on New School Buses
Related: Evolution of Thought

Kinney’s report also addresses the increased cost of a school bus with lap/shoulder seatbelts.

“Based on the large reduction in pupil passenger injuries revealed in this report since the implementation of lap/shoulder belts in all new California school buses, the cost-benefits of lap/shoulder belts clearly tip the scales in favor of installing lap/shoulder belts on all new school buses across the nation,” it states, adding that in the 20 years since lap/shoulder seatbelts were required California saw no student fatalities. “…the reduction in pupil passenger injuries more than justifies the few thousands of dollars initial cost.

“When spread over the average 20-year life cycle of a California school bus, the cost is around $500.00 per year. And, if you consider the number of trips per school year and the number of pupils transported each day, the cost is pennies per child per day. The litigation costs, not to mention the costs of settling a court case, can easily be measured in millions of dollars. The financial litigation risks, along with the pain and suffering of a pupil passenger and their family, is something to consider when drawing conclusions on the results and use of this report.”

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A 5-year-old boy was killed Thursday morning after being struck by a school bus in Rockland County, New York, reported CBS News.

According to the news report, the crash happened around 8:35 a.m. in the Village of New Square. Police said preliminary evidence indicates the school bus struck the child and then run over him.

The boywas rushed to Westchester County Medical Center, where officials said they were pronounced dead at approximately 12:15 p.m. The child’s name has not been released.

Investigators said the school bus driver did not initially realize the child had been struck and continued driving until being flagged down, at which point the driver returned to the scene.

The Ramapo Police Crash Investigation Unit responded and is reportedly conducting an extensive investigation, which involves coordination with partner agencies, interviews, scene measurements, data analysis, and vehicle inspections.

Police told local news reporters that the bus company is cooperating with the investigation, and the vehicle will be inspected by the New York State Department of Transportation.

No charges or additional details have been announced as the investigation remains ongoing.

Related: Wisconsin Teen Injured After Being Struck by Pickup While Boarding School Bus
Related: 4-Year-Old Girl Killed After Being Struck by School Bus in New York
Related: 11-Year-Old Struck by School Bus in Utah, in Stable Condition
Related: Louisiana Student Struck and Killed by School Bus

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Police took a teenager suspected of vehicle theft into custody after a brief pursuit ended in a collision with an Aldine Independent School District school bus near Houston, Texas, reported Fox News.

According to the news report, the incident began around 4:22 p.m. Jan. 27, when a FLOCK license plate camera alerted authorities to a possibly stolen vehicle in northeast Harris County. Sheriff’s deputies located the vehicle and attempted a traffic stop. The driver fled, prompting the pursuit that lasted approximately five minutes.

The pursuit reportedly ended near Homestead Road and U.S. 59, after the suspect ran a red light and struck the Aldine ISD school bus on its right-rear side.

Aldine ISD said 28 Aldine Middle School students were on board at the time of the crash. Four students were transported to a hospital for evaluation, though authorities did not release details on their conditions.

Investigators said the suspect, believed to be around 17 years old and not named due to their age, was taken into custody at the scene of the crash. The teen was evaluated by EMS, refused treatment and was transported to the Joint Processing Center.

The teen could face felony charges related to possession of a stolen vehicle and firearm, which Sheriff’s deputies also recovered. The investigation remains ongoing.

Related: Teen Arrested After Allegedly Hitting Student Waiting for School Bus in New York
Related: Teen Charged in Pennsylvania School Bus Shooting, 3 Others Wanted
Related: Maryland Teen Charged as Adult for Attempted Murder on School Bus
Related: Texas Student Arrested Following Alleged Sexual Assault on School Bus

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MESA, Ariz., – As the school year hits a midway point, a recent Verra Mobility 2025-2026 school year survey, issued via Pollfish, reveals that parents and caregivers of school-aged students overwhelmingly support the use of automated enforcement to improve student transportation safety.

The survey, which included 2,000 parents or caretakers of children who walk, drive, are driven, or take transportation to school, showed that many respondents have witnessed near-miss incidents where a student was almost hit in a school zone or near a school bus.

The data points to a pattern of dangerous incidents in school zones and near school buses, and parents’ desire for action:

82% support safety cameras to monitor and penalize drivers who illegally pass stopped school buses. 70% of respondents favor automated enforcement in school zones

The response comes as many of these same parents and caregivers have witnessed events that nearly led to student tragedy:

43% have observed a “near miss” in a school zone. 33% have seen a “near miss” surrounding a stopped school bus

Automated enforcement programs have long been proven effective. Verra Mobility program data shows that school bus stop-arm programs have experienced as much as a 50% reduction in violations within just two months of launching the program. As the program continues, 98% of drivers who receive one stop-arm violation don’t receive a second.

Similar success has been experienced with school zone speed safety programs, where programs have experienced a 94 percent reduction in speeding at speed camera locations.

“Parents, educators, and communities share the same priority – keeping students safe,” said David Dorfman, senior vice president, Verra Mobility. “With a large majority of parents supporting automated enforcement in school zones and for school bus stop-arm enforcement, technology offers a proven way to change dangerous driving behaviors and prevent tragedies.”

This data comes as cities and counties across the U.S. are utilizing technology to make a difference. During the 2024-2025 school year, Verra Mobility, which covers more than 250 communities, launched 13 new school zone speed programs, from Memphis, TN, to Poulsbo, WA, in order to deter dangerous driving and protect students.

This trend also reflects concerns from educators and school administrators, with 38% of public-school officials moderately or strongly agreeing that traffic patterns around their schools pose a threat to students’ physical safety during their commute. To combat this, parents are advocating for a holistic safety approach with physical and policy-based improvements such as speed bumps, more crossing guards, better signage and traffic signals.

For more information on how to support safer driving and how to employ safety solutions for your community, visit www.verramobility.com/government.

About Verra Mobility
Verra Mobility Corporation (NASDAQ: VRRM) is a leading provider of smart mobility technology solutions that make transportation safer, smarter and more connected. The company sits at the center of the mobility ecosystem, bringing together vehicles, hardware, software, data and people to enable safe, efficient solutions for customers globally. Verra Mobility’s transportation safety systems and parking management solutions protect lives, improve urban and motorway mobility and support healthier communities. The company also solves complex payment, utilization and compliance challenges for fleet owners and rental car companies. Headquartered in Arizona, Verra Mobility operates in North America, Europe, Asia and Australia. For more information, please visit www.verramobility.com.

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Running a student transportation fleet means nothing is one-and-done; only continually managed on a day-to-day basis, often by using fleet tech that doesn’t talk to each other. This white paper discusses eight practical ways to reduce technology complexity so you can do more, more effectively.

Download this white paper and learn how to:

1. Connect every dot with real-time visibility.
2. Customize dashboards for tailored, detailed insights.
3. Uphold fleetwide safety standards, daily.
4. Fill communication gaps with transparency.

Plus four more, including maintaining healthy vehicles.

Fill out the form below and then check your email for the white paper download link.

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With more than two decades of experience in transportation, Craig Lipps has become a bit of an unofficial troubleshooter or change agent for school transportation operations.

He led the transportation operation at Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk Central School District in upstate New York for a couple years, where he helped the district save more than $400,000 annually by optimizing routes with the use of Transfinder solutions.

“In this business, we’re working for the success of kids. That’s the bottom line. You need the best tools to do that. I rely on Transfinder to stay a step ahead of everybody else.”

Then he went to nearby Guilderland Central School District (NY) where he saved the district $2.6 million annually, again with Transfinder’s award-winning solutions.

So how does Lipps do it? Here’s the backstory.

When Lipps arrived at Guilderland, he faced a daunting challenge: a transportation department struggling with inefficiencies, outdated software and ballooning costs. The district was financially upside down, contracting dozens of routes to outside providers while its own buses sat idle.

For Lipps, a veteran transportation leader, the solution was clear—modernize operations with Transfinder technology.

The Problem: Inefficiency and Overspending

Guilderland’s transportation system was riddled with inefficiencies. The district had 115 buses in its fleet but was operating only about 70, while paying contractors to handle 36 out-of-district routes.

“It was very costly,” Lipps recalled.

And it just didn’t make sense.

“They (Guilderland) have the equipment and the drivers,” he said, “so you don’t need to contract when you have equipment and drivers.”

The software in place when Lipps arrived was outdated, locally hosted and lacked the tools needed to identify inefficiencies or optimize routes. The data, he said, “was messy.”

A hands-on kind of leader, Lipps left the office to see for himself what was going on.

“I’d get out there in my own vehicle just to watch what was happening,” Lipps said. What he saw confirmed his suspicions: buses sitting idle for hours. “I’ll never forget the day I saw three yellow buses parked at Crossgates Mall.”

He was curious if there was a field trip at the mall.

“So, the next day I went there, the same three buses were sitting there. And the next day I went there. So, I checked the GPS system and, sure enough, those buses were sitting there every single day for more than an hour. I’m like, ‘Yeah, that’s a problem.’”

The Solution: Transfinder’s Suite of Tools

The software product the district was using didn’t provide the tools “to look and find opportunities or inefficiencies,” Lipps said, yet he knew the district needed a cloud-based, data-driven system to regain control.

When Lipps arrived, he put a spotlight on the issues – “The problem was bigger than anyone realized” – and the district moved quicker to Transfinder, a solution he knew well.

The first step was implementing Routefinder PLUS, Transfinder’s award-winning flagship routing solution. Lipps personally sat down with every driver to build routes in the new system. “I have a large TV in my office and we sat at a table and worked from the laptop and built their routes. They watched it unfold before them. They were intrigued by it, and it was cool.”

Accurate data from the student information system was imported, giving the district a clear picture of transportation needs.

Coupled with Transfinder’s field trip management solution Tripfinder, which streamlined field trip management, the district was well on its way to greater efficiency. Previously, trip requests were handled through PDFs—a cumbersome process that led to mistakes and wasted time. “Tripfinder was a no-brainer,” Lipps said. “It integrated seamlessly with Routefinder and eliminated the nightmare of managing trips manually.”

The Results: $2.6 Million Saved in One Year

By the end of the school year, Guilderland had saved an astonishing $2.6 million. “That was one school year—September to June,” Lipps emphasized. “And those savings will continue every year as long as they keep using the tools.

Learn more and read the rest of this transformational journey.

To learn more about Transfinder’s technology and support, email solutions@transfinder.com, visit www.transfinder.com/solutions or call 800-373-3609.

The views expressed are those of the content sponsor and do not reflect those of School Transportation News.

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This month’s issue highlights safety, covering different aspects of how the student transportation is addressing the most pressing safety challenges facing students, drivers and transportation departments. Learn more about the planning needed for the aftermath of school bus crashes, prevention techniques and equipment including lap/shoulder seatbelts, training policies and garages, as well as furthering safety through awareness, access and accountability.

Also, find dates, agendas and new experiences coming up for our 2026 conferences.

Read the full February 2026 issue.

Features

‘This is Bad’
Planning for what happens in the minutes, days and weeks following a severe school bus crash is as important as training to avoid an incident from occurring in the first place.

An Evolution of Thought
Installing lap/shoulder seatbelts on school buses is only half the battle. Experts say it’s vital to also have usage policies and training procedures in place for successful implementation.

Keys to Success
Developing a safety culture not only begins and ends with school bus passengers but must encompass everything from driver training to garage layout.

Special Reports

Getting the Word Out
As illegal passing incidents continue to plague the industry, many federal and state organizations are working on public safety announcements to increase school bus awareness among motorists.

Feedback
Online
Ad Index

Editor’s Take by Ryan Gray
Strongest Case Yet for 3-point Belts?

Thought Leader by Glenna-Wright Gallo
School Bus Adaptive Technology: Safer Rides, Stronger Teams, Better Access

Publisher’s Corner by Tony Corpin
Autonomous Vehicle Implications

The post February 2026 appeared first on School Transportation News.

The Transportation Director Summit hosts student transportation leaders from across the country for a two-day event at STN EXPO East, focused on collaborative problem-solving and targeted training.

The Transportation Director Summit begins Friday, March 27 at the Embassy Suites Charlotte-Concord in North Carolina with a “Transportation Director Leadership Discussion” hosted by STN Publisher and President Tony Corpin. The event includes a networking mixer with appetizers and beverages provided. Discussion prompts will be based on the top challenges and changes facing the student transportation industry, as reported by participants via a survey.

On Saturday, the Transportation Director Summit participants head to Topgolf for an exclusive presentation from STN EXPO East keynote speaker Jim Knight. He will explain how to create “Leadership That Rocks” and build strong organizational culture. The day’s schedule will include multiple focused roundtable discussions as attendants are matched with different vendors to discuss the most pressing needs of their operations.

Participants will be provided with food, drinks and open golf bays as they network with other transportation directors and vendors.

Applicants must hold the position of transportation director or a qualified equivalent and be able to attend both days of the Summit. Email kristine@stnmedia.com for more information about qualifying for the Transportation Director Summit.

Register by Feb. 14 to save $100 off full conference registration. Browse conference agenda and explore other unique experiences at stnexpo.com/east.

Related: WATCH: STN EXPO East Keynote Speaker to Outline Strategies for Creating Impactful Culture
Related: Industry Veteran to Address Student Transportation Funding Uncertainty at STN EXPO East
Related: STN EXPO East to Feature Timely Discussion on Managing Stress

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New details emerged from an incident involving a student with a handgun while riding a school bus in Kanawha County, West Virginia that led to a teacher’s aide also being arrested, reported Metro News.

St. Albans Police Department officers were called on Jan. 21 after a student at Hayes Middle School was discovered with a handgun on his school bus around 3:15 p.m. A school employee who was on board the bus confiscated the weapon and turned it over to school officials.

Police said the juvenile was later released into the custody of a guardian, who indicated they had no knowledge the student possessed a firearm. Authorities also revealed the handgun had been reported stolen the night before the incident.

As the investigation continued, police then arrested Heather Dawn Sherrod, 46, of St. Albans, a teacher’s aide at Hayes Middle School. Sherrod was charged with failing to report a firearm and was taken into custody.

A criminal complaint was filed in Kanawha County Magistrate Court. Investigators learned that Sherrod was informed by a student around 8:30 a.m. on Jan. 21 that a handgun had been pointed at another student. Police allege that despite being a mandated reporter, Sherrod did not report the incident. The complaint states Sherrod admitted she knew she was required to report the information but failed to do so.

Sherrod is currently being held at South Central Regional Jail on a $2,500 bond. The St. Albans Police Department continues to work closely with the Kanawha County Prosecutor’s Office as the investigation remains ongoing.

Related: 9-Year-Old Arrested for Bringing Loaded Gun onto Florida School Bus
Related: North Carolina Student in Custody for Bringing Gun on School Bus
Related: Iowa Student Found with BB Gun on School Bus
Related: South Carolina Man Arrested for Allegedly Pointing Gun at School Bus

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A Government Accountability Report (GAO) study of five federal programs for fraud prevention measures and oversight found the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Universal Service Program for Schools and Libraries, commonly known as E-Rate, to be the only one that met all nine requirements and leading practices to prevent fraud, waste and abuse.

Meanwhile, E-Rate opponents have often characterized the funding mechanism for discounted internet and telecommunications access in libraries, schools and until recently school buses as rampant with fraud. FCC in September voted 2-1 to revoke E-Rate eligibility for school bus Wi-Fi.

In addition to E-Rate, the GAO report released in December examined the policies and procedures of the Department of Commerce’s CHIPS for America Fund, the Environmental Protection Agency’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, the Department of Health and Human Services’ Health Center Program, and the Department of Energy’s Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs.

The Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) administers E-Rate under FCC oversight and conducts biannual fraud risk assessments. The GAO report found USAC has implemented an entity-wide antifraud strategy, which includes measures to prevent, detect and respond to fraud, as well as ongoing monitoring and evaluation of fraud risk management activities.

Related: U.S. Supreme Court Upholds Constitutionality of Universal Service Fund for E-Rate
Related: (STN Podcast E259) Feel the Passion: Debates on Wi-Fi, Technology, Alternative Transportation & Safety
Related: Update: Senate Approves Stripping Individual Wi-Fi Hotspots from E-Rate Program

GAO noted that E-Rate’s adherence to all nine requirements and leading practices, including maintaining risk profiles, documenting an antifraud strategy and conducting risk-based monitoring. Together, GAO said the requirements and leading practices set a high standard for other federal award programs. In fiscal year 2024, E-Rate obligated approximately $2.9 billion and disbursed $2.6 billion to help schools and libraries access affordable broadband services.

Michael Flood, founder of telecommunications consultant and strategist Alpine Frog, applauded what he called a “100-percent, A-plus score.”

“I would add that the E-Rate program is also widely recognized for continuously and consistently bringing down costs over its 30-year history due to a robust competitive bidding process and commitment to open data practices,” he commented. “E-Rate operates in an efficient and open market.”

The report also highlighted previous recommendations made by GAO to improve fraud risk management in FCC’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The FCC implemented all six recommendations, further strengthening its oversight capabilities.

While the report identified gaps in fraud prevention measures across other federal programs, it commended the FCC and E-Rate for their proactive approach to safeguarding taxpayer dollars and ensuring program integrity.

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DUPAGE, Ill. – Durham School Services and Glenbard Township High School District 87 have started the year on a strong note with their newly formed partnership and successful start to the semester – a testament to Durham’s 109 years of expertise and safe and reliable service. The partnership will extend through July of 2027, and Durham will service a total of fifty regular routes and nine special education routes for the school district.

Durham and its sister brands currently provide student transportation for fifteen communities across Illinois, and through this partnership with Glenbard Township High School District 87, are excited to be able to expand our transportation services to another community in Illinois. Further, through our company-wide community outreach program, Partners Beyond the Bus, our team looks forward to supporting the Glenbard community and its students beyond providing transportation through various community activities and events.

“We appreciate the partnership we’ve established with Durham School Services with an emergency contract for transportation for Glenbard Township High School District 87,” said Jessica Santee, Superintendent, Glenbard Township High School District 87. “While changes of this scale and in this short timeline are extremely difficult, our shared commitment to student safety, reliability, and clear communication has helped us to start the semester off smoothly. Durham has worked closely with our district to address our needs, support drivers, and strengthen day-to-day operations. We value their responsiveness and commitment to our greater school community. We look forward to our continued partnership in providing dependable transportation services for our students and families.”

“What a great, positive way to begin 2026 by forging this partnership with Glenbard Township High School District 87,” said Tim Wertner, CEO, Durham School Services. “Even with the hustle and bustle of the holidays and New Years, our team stayed focused and worked in perfect tandem with the school district to keep the momentum going to ensure that we were prepped and ready for a successful start-up. Thank you, team, and Glenbard Township High School District 87, for all your efforts! We are off to an excellent start, and we’re thrilled to join and support the Glenbard community. We look forward to building strong bonds with the community and continuing our commitment to transport students to school safely, on time, and ready to learn every day.”

About Durham School Services: As an industry-leading student transportation provider, Durham School Services and its sister brands, Stock Transportation and Petermann Bus, are dedicated to the safety of our students and People. Collectively, 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 and its sister brands have earned recognition as a trusted transportation provider among our Customers and the Communities they serve.

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We cover a harsh winter ice storm, takeaways from the 2026 NSTA Midwinter Meeting, updates to the U.S. EPA’s Clean School Bus Program and illegal passing by Waymo autonomous vehicles.

Industry consultant Tim Ammon gives tips for transportation budgeting and business efficiency while maximizing educational access for students. He will lead sessions at STN EXPO East this March in Charlotte-Concord, North Carolina.

Read more about operations.

This episode is brought to you by Transfinder.

Stream, subscribe and download the School Transportation Nation podcast on Apple Podcasts, Deezer, Google Podcasts, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Stitcher and YouTube.

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Authorities in Elk River, Minnesota are investigating how a man abducted a 7-year-old girl from her school bus stop.

According to a statement from the Sherbourne County Sheriff’s Office, the child exited her school bus just before 4 p.m. last Wednesday and was reported missing at approximately 6:30 p.m. An extensive search resulted in no information about her whereabouts.

Investigators later determined that the girl had likely been abducted. “An extensive search by law enforcement, first responders and the public didn’t reveal her whereabouts, and investigators had no corroboration that she had potentially left the area in a vehicle until hours later,” said Sherbourne County Sheriff’s Office Commander Ben Zawacki.

The sheriff’s office issue an Amber Alert at 11:40 p.m., after authorities confirmed the abduction. The investigation led officials to a white Dodge Ram believed to be connected to the disappearance. Around 1 a.m. Thursday, law enforcement agencies located the suspect vehicle and found the 7-year-old girl inside.

“The girl was safe and the suspect was arrested,” the sheriff’s office stated.

Joseph Bragg, 28, was charged in connection with the child’s abduction. No additional details about the suspect or the circumstances surrounding the incident have been released. The investigation remains ongoing.

Related: Ohio Teen Escapes Abduction Attempt While Waiting for School Bus; Suspect in Custody
Related: South Carolina Students Grabbed at School Bus Stop in Alleged Attempted Abduction
Related: Florida School Bus Aide Arrested on Child Abuse Charge
Related: Ohio Student Almost Kidnapped from School Bus Stop

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All schools and districts that applied for funding for eligible safety features ranging from seatbelts to collision avoidance to additional lighting through the $10 million Ohio School Bus Safety Grant received an award.

An Ohio Department of Education spokesperson confirmed that it received 371 applications from schools, districts and county boards of developmental disabilities for the School Bus Safety Grant. Of those applications, 56 requested funds for “Occupant restraining devices that conform to the school bus seat belt requirements of 49 C.F.R. 571.”

The other authorized safety features are external school bus cameras, fully eliminated stop arms, crossing arms, illuminated school bus signs, lane departure warning systems, collision avoidance systems, and electronic stability control.

The school bus safety grant program was created in response to recommendations made by the Ohio School Bus Safety Working Group, which Gov. Mike DeWine convened to review all aspects of student transportation, following an August 2024 school bus crash that resulted in a student fatality.

Among its 17 recommendations made in January 2024, which did not include the use of lap/shoulder seatbelts — a main reason Gov. DeWine called together the working group — were strategies for improving bus safety features, driver training and emergency response.

Safety rant funding may be used for the repair, replacement or addition of the eight authorized safety features on school buses in active service or for safety enhancements on new school bus purchases.

Related: Ohio School Bus Grant Program Launches, $10M Available
Related: Ohio School Bus Safety Working Group to Investigate Seatbelts Following Fatality
Related: Ohio School Bus Safety Recommendations Call for Technology Funding, No Seatbelt Mandate
Related: Brother and Sister Help Save School Bus Driver During Medical Emergency in Ohio

Indian Hill EVSD in Ohio, applied for the safety grant. Diane Spurlock, transportation director, said they asked for collision avoidance systems and lane departure warning system.

“The program we selected is an AI camera that can notify the driver if either of the instances occurs while they are on the road,” she said. “The main reason is that we recently had an incident happen with a driver where this could have kept it from happening thus ensuring a safer drive. A secondary reason is that our current cameras are getting outdated quickly and I hope this opens the door to purchase more products from this company.”

Additionally, Indian Hill applied for the ground wash lights “because our district does not have street lights and some streets are very narrow. We have added the LED lights near the back tires but believe the ground wash lights will be especially helpful for turnarounds,” she continued.

Gov. DeWine, the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce Director Stephen D. Dackin announced via a press release that, “the grants will help ensure safer travel for Ohio students through safety upgrades to existing buses and the addition of advanced safety features on new buses.”

“Whether students are in the classroom or on the school bus, we owe it to parents and families to do everything we can to keep them safe,” said DeWine. “We’re raising the bar for student safety on Ohio’s buses, and these grant awards demonstrate our dedication to making school transportation safer.”

Dackin added, “Student safety is our top priority, and Ohio is investing in critical safety improvements to equip school buses with proven technology that keeps children safe.”

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Dover Police arrested a 62-year-old man after surveillance footage from inside a school bus allegedly showed him engaging in sex acts in exchange for money, reported WBOC News.

Police took Alvin Rohm into custody following an investigation that began Jan. 6. Police said the incident came to light when a local school district employee was reviewing school bus video footage related to an unrelated matter.

During the review, the employee reportedly discovered video showing Rohm, who was driving the bus at the time, picking up a woman near an intersection. The footage allegedly shows Rohm driving to the area of Jerusalem Way, where he parked the bus and engaged in sexual activity with the woman. Police say via the article that the video also captured an exchange of money.

The footage was reportedly turned over to the Dover Police Department, prompting a criminal investigation. Police arrested Rohm on Jan. 12 and charged him with patronizing a prostitute within 1,000 feet of a school, residence, church, or place, as well as lewdness.

Police emphasized that Rohm was an employee of an unnamed school bus contractor company ad not the school district. Rohm was released on bond. The investigation remains ongoing.

Related: Maryland School Bus Aid Charged with Sexual Assault
Related: New York School Bus Aide Accused of Sexual Assault
Related: Former Massachusetts School Bus Driver Facing Charges of Sexual Assault
Related: Former Ohio School Bus Driver Indicted on Over 80 Counts of Rape, Sexual Battery

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ALBANY, N.Y.,– The National Association for Pupil Transportation (NAPT) is proud to announce the launch of the 2026 Love the Bus digital toolkit and campaign guide, now available for download on the official Love the Bus webpage. This year’s resources are designed to help schools, districts, and transportation professionals celebrate the vital role student transportation plays in education and community life throughout February and beyond.

The celebration begins this Sunday, February 1, marking the start of Love the Bus Month and launching a year-long initiative that underscores the significance of the school bus and the vital role it plays in education.

“Love the Bus Month sets the stage for a year of positive national focus on the importance and value of the school transportation industry,” said Molly McGee Hewitt, NAPT CEO and Executive Director. “Our Love, Delivered. campaign empowers our members and partners with tools, templates, and messaging to celebrate the dedication, professionalism, and impact of transportation teams everywhere. We encourage school districts, associations, and community leaders to leverage these resources, not just in February but as the foundation for ongoing recognition and engagement.

Love the Bus celebrates the trusted yellow school bus and the professionals who safely deliver students to school each day, while highlighting the critical connection between safe transportation and educational access. The toolkit includes ready-to-use graphics, social media templates, press materials, certificates, and ideas to create vibrant, visible campaigns at the district, school, and community levels.

“Behind every safe ride is a team of professionals who care deeply about students and the communities they serve,” said Keith Kaup, President of NAPT. “Love the Bus Month is a chance for communities to come together and recognize the people who make safe student transportation possible every day. When we support and appreciate these teams, we strengthen not only our transportation systems, but the connection between schools and the communities they serve.”

NAPT invites members, school transportation professionals, and industry partners to share their Love the Bus activities, photos, and stories on social media throughout February using #LoveTheBus and tagging/mentioning the association. These shared moments help amplify appreciation for student transportation nationwide, and NAPT will look to spotlight selected stories on a larger scale, including through its official publication, School BUSRide, extending the celebration and recognition even further.

We encourage districts to take advantage of these opportunities offered in the digital toolkit. Learn more and get instant access to the toolkit and guide.

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The annual school bus inspection training that goes above and beyond state and federal Department of Transportation requirements brings back OEM training and looks to add post-crash inspection criteria in addition to hands-on detection of defects

Developed by school bus maintenance and inspection expert Marshall Casey for the South Carolina Department of Education, the in-depth training at STN EXPO East starts with classroom instruction on Friday, March 27. The eight-hour training will also include a written exam.

On Saturday, mechanic and technician participants will be transported to a local school district in Charlotte, North Carolina for the hands-on training. The day starts with an overview of high-voltage school bus electrification followed by instruction on finding real defects on real school buses. Class attendees will learn how to avoid costly repairs with early detection, which also leads to less vehicle downtime and a more efficient school bus maintenance schedule in the garage.

OEM training on propane-autogas systems inspections, wheelchair lift inspections, and more will follow the hands-on portion. Blue Bird, IC Bus, RIDE and Thomas Built Buses confirmed their participation.

New this year is a planned Sunday half-day seminar on school bus inspections following a crash to determine cause.

Meanwhile, the inspection training is designed based on best practices from the South Carolina Department of Education, which operates the only state-owned and operated fleet in the country. The department’s maintenance team, which serves as the hands-on inspection and classroom instructors at STN EXPO East, was recognized as one of the nation’s top 10 Garage Stars last August by School Transportation News. Participants of the training will be learning directly from some of these recognized student transportation professionals.

School bus inspection training class size is limited to 50 participants to ensure the instructors will be able to provide a thorough training experience for everyone registered. Separate registration and fee are required to attend.

Save $100 on conference registration by registering before Feb. 14. Find the full conference agenda, list of unique trainings and experiences, exhibitor lists, and hotel information at stnexpo.com/east.

Related: Industry Veteran to Address Student Transportation Funding Uncertainty at STN EXPO East
Related: STN EXPO East Agenda Addresses Industry Challenges, Outlines Innovative Solutions
Related: WATCH: STN EXPO East Keynote Speaker to Outline Strategies for Creating Impactful Culture

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A New Orleans school bus driver disappeared after walking away from a bus carrying six students following a reported verbal conflict, leaving the children alone for more than 20 minutes, reported 4WWL News.

According to the news report, the incident occurred shortly before 8 a.m. on Jan. 14. Surveillance footage shared with local news reporters by a nearby convenience store shows the school bus pulling over at approximately 7:59 a.m.

About three minutes later, the driver is seen exiting the bus, crossing the street, and walking in the direction of I-10. The driver remains visible in the video for several minutes before leaving the frame entirely.

During that time, the abandoned students, ranging in age from pre-kindergarten to eighth grade, can be seen moving around inside the bus through its windows. Authorities say via the article that the children were left unattended for approximately 22 minutes before a New Orleans Police Department unit arrived at the scene with emergency lights activated.

Over the next 45 minutes, additional officers responded, and the students were gradually escorted off the bus. At 9:12 a.m., someone drove the bus away from the location.

The New Orleans Police Department confirmed that around 11 a.m. that the school bus driver had not yet been located. Later in the day, officials said they could no longer comment on the case because it had become part of a child abuse investigation.

Police reportedly confirmed that none of the students were injured during the abandonment. The investigation remains ongoing.

Related: Georgia School Bus Driver Arrested for DUI With Students on Board
Related: Ohio Parents Sue School District After 6-Year-Old Left on Bus for Hours
Related: 6-Year-Old Left on School Bus for Hours
Related: Mississippi Student Left on Bus for Hours

The post School Bus Driver Abandons Students On Board After Reported Conflict with Student appeared first on School Transportation News.

Recently, I took inventory of the number of school transportation cases in which I have served as an expert witness, beginning in 1993, for both plaintiff and defense attorneys. An overwhelming and tragic theme that caught my attention was seen in my first expert witness case over 33 years ago and my most recent expert witness case last year. Both concerned sexual assaults that occurred on school transportation vehicles.

My first expert witness case involved the sexual assault of a student with disabilities by a substitute school bus driver, and my most recent case involved the sexual assault of an intellectually disabled student by an emotionally disabled student on a school bus. I reflected on why I have been so reluctant to write about sexual assault on school transportation vehicles, despite my knowledge about this area of school transportation. Frankly speaking, it is difficult, awkward and unpleasant to speak about this topic. However, it is necessary to do so.

My expert witness work over three decades covers unwanted, forced, non-consensual sexual assaults committed on school transportation vehicles. These sexual assaults have been performed by transportation personnel including full-time and substitute drivers and attendants as well as students on students. The victims have included young children and school-age students with disabilities transported on the same vehicle serving regular and special education students, transportation vehicles serving exclusively students with disabilities, taxi’s transporting one or more special needs students to and from school, high school students with disabilities utilizing mass transit buses, alternative school transportation vehicles, extracurricular school activity vehicles, and school-sponsored field trip transportation vehicles.

Strikingly, it is evident that school transportation is not exempt from sexual assault. It is no secret that sexual assault too often leads to life-long devastating consequences both physically and psychologically for child victims. It is essential that school transportation industry leadership and interdisciplinary colleagues collaboratively address preventing sexual assault on school transportation vehicles. A comprehensive review of the literature on sexual assault occurring on school transportation vehicles is unavailable. However, there is literature and resource documents addressing significant increases in sexual assault in school settings in recent years.

Ongoing and frequent media coverage regarding sexual assault on school transportation vehicles is inescapable. From my perspective, this critical and disturbing issue is not sufficiently spoken about or attended to promptly. For victims of sexual assault on school transportation vehicles, every second makes a difference.

Preventing sexual assault from occurring in school transportation vehicles demands urgently enhancing awareness about sexual assault as a part of school transportation personnel training. Focused sexual assault training should occur prior to new employees transporting students and on a regularly scheduled basis thereafter. Too often school districts mistakenly assume if drivers and/or attendants have undergone a criminal background check, mandated under federal and state law, this level of scrutiny will prevent sexual assault from taking place on a school transportation vehicle. This assumption is not convincingly valid based on numerous cases in which I have served as an expert witness.

From my experience, some observable things that are making a difference in preventing sexual assault on school transportation vehicles include:

Establishing in writing, disseminating and instructing all transportation personnel regarding approved school board policies and procedures that define and address
sexual assault on school transportation vehicles.

Establishing and disseminating age-appropriate clear student communication about what is acceptable and unacceptable behavior on school transportation vehicles, specifically addressing bullying, sexual harassment and sexual assault. Prior to dissemination, this information should be approved by the school board and then disseminated. It is imperative to fully understand the ability and limitations of all students to understand this information. This requires establishing realistic expectations for children with disabilities, including limitations to comprehend inappropriate sexual behavior based upon individual disabilities. Unequivocally, appropriate levels of supervision on all school transportation vehicles are not an option but a necessity, especially for protecting children with disabilities.

Related: Texas Student Arrested Following Alleged Sexual Assault on School Bus
Related: Maryland School Bus Aid Charged with Sexual Assault
Related: Virginia School Bus Aide Arrested for Alleged Assault
Related: Alabama School Bus Driver Arrested for Allegedly Assaulting Student with Special Needs

Utilizing surveillance cameras on school transportation vehicles to monitor any suspected inappropriate sexual behavior and/or potential sexual assaults. This should take place on a scheduled basis. Surveillance cameras can serve as an invaluable preventive measure.

School transportation personnel, parents and students alike should be informed about the use of surveillance cameras to monitor behavior during school transportation.

Providing transportation personnel with specific instructions about the necessity for utilizing appropriate adult supervision on school transportation vehicles. This includes both drivers and attendants. It is essential to include substitute transportation personnel with the same level of instruction. A recommended best practice instructional strategy is the provision of scenarios for group discussion and learning.

Timely scheduled training should be provided for all transportation personnel and students alike to recognize and prevent sexual assault. The reporting of inappropriate sexual behavior or sexual assault on school transportation vehicles should be encouraged. Transportation personnel and students should not have to fear retaliation. Confidentiality is essential when inappropriate sexual behavior is reported. School board approved policies and procedures to support peers looking out for one another should be encouraged.

High-back seats are an obstacle for observing inappropriate sexual behavior and/or sexual assault on school transportation vehicles, during the time the vehicle is in operation or stopped. Additional deliberation regarding this unanticipated complication is necessary.

The challenge of preventing and reducing sexual assaults on school transportation vehicles requires shared awareness and the commitment of school transportation personnel, educators and interdisciplinary stakeholders.

I suggest the industry consider forming a task force to address sexual assault on school transportation vehicles to further identify and implement plausible solutions for this well-known but often unspoken subject matter. It is not possible to overstate the unique environment of a school transportation vehicle, including seating in confined spaces and the inability to supervise riders seated behind the driver. Let’s not miss out on a timely opportunity to make a difference.

Editor’s Note: As reprinted from the January 2026 issue of School Transportation News.

Linda Bluth is a national compliance and regulatory expert on IDEA transportation law and provisions. She is an NAPT Hall of Fame member, a tenured faculty member for TSD Conference, and a regular contributor to School Transportation News.

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