AVON, Ohio – Every school day, more than 25 million students across the United States climb aboard a yellow school bus – the safest form of student transportation on the road. According to the American School Bus Council, riding a school bus is about 70 times safer than traveling by car, and no other mode – not planes, trains, or other transit systems – moves more passengers each day.

In support of 2025 National School Bus Safety Week (Oct. 20-24), Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC (Bendix) shares its ongoing work to help make an already safe form of student transportation even safer – through advanced vehicle technologies, driver and technician training, and close collaboration with manufacturers and school districts across North America.

National School Bus Safety Week is a public education program from the National Association for Pupil Transportation (NAPT) that promotes school bus safety. It occurs annually during the third full week of October.

“Our mission at Bendix is rooted in supporting the people and vehicles responsible for safely transporting students every day,” said Nicole Oreskovic, Bendix vice president of sales and marketing. “That means delivering the technologies that help protect passengers, empowering drivers with tools that support their work behind the wheel, and partnering with school districts and OEMs to keep safety evolving. It’s a responsibility we take seriously – and one that continues to drive innovation across our product portfolio.”

Air Disc Brake Advantage
Encouraging the use of proven vehicle safety technologies is a key part of efforts to enhance student transportation safety – and air disc brakes (ADBs) are increasingly a part of that equation. ADBs provide shorter stopping distances and smoother, more stable stops compared to drum brakes, while virtually eliminating brake fade – a critical advantage in stop-and-go routes and downhill applications.

“School transportation safety managers are recognizing the significant difference air disc brakes make,” said Keith McComsey, Bendix technical sales lead, Wheel-End. “Since we introduced the Bendix ADB22X air disc brake to the school bus market in 2008, adoption has continued to grow, with thousands of new school buses equipped each year.”

Beyond braking performance, ADBs at the wheel-ends help optimize the capabilities of higher-level safety systems. All major North American school bus manufacturers – including Blue Bird Corporation, Navistar’s IC Bus, and Thomas Built Buses – offer the Bendix ADB22X as a factory-installed option.

Driver Assistance Technologies Deliver Added Support
Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are increasingly available on school buses, where they support drivers and enhance safety on the road.

One such technology is the Bendix ESP Electronic Stability Program full-stability system. First introduced two decades ago, Bendix ESP uses sensors and advanced algorithms to help drivers potentially mitigate rollover and loss-of-control situations. It can function across a wide range of road and weather conditions – including dry, snowy, icy, and slippery surfaces – and can apply braking in ways beyond a driver’s capabilities. ESP also serves as the foundation for higher-level driver assistance systems.

Among those systems is Bendix Wingman Advanced – A Collision Mitigation Technology, which pairs radar with the ESP braking system to deliver active cruise control with braking. The system provides both alerts and active brake interventions that can help drivers potentially mitigate rear-end collisions. Another is Bendix Fusion, which “fuses” forward-facing radar, camera, and braking system data into a single platform. Fusion delivers advanced features such as autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warnings – all designed to support drivers as they respond to changing traffic situations.

“Technologies like full stability and collision mitigation are effective tools that make a real difference on the road,” said TJ Thomas, Bendix director of marketing and customer solutions. “Their importance is reflected in the ongoing advocacy of organizations such as the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and NAPT, both of which support the adoption of these technologies in school bus fleets.”

IC Bus became the first North American school bus manufacturer to offer collision mitigation as a standard feature in 2018, specifying Bendix Wingman Advanced on its CE Series and RE Series and offering Bendix Fusion as an option on the CE Series.

Bendix emphasizes that advanced technologies complement safe driving practices. No commercial vehicle safety technology, including Bendix safety technologies, replaces a skilled, alert driver exercising safe driving techniques and proactive, comprehensive driving training. Responsibility for the safe operation of the vehicle remains with the driver at all times. Never wait for the system to intervene. Every driver should carefully review the operator’s manual and be trained by the fleet or vehicle owner on the proper operation and limitations of the ADAS system during operation.

Parking Smart and Safe
Another innovation enhancing school bus safety and driver convenience is the Bendix Intellipark Electronic Parking Brake. Intellipark helps mitigate rollaway crashes by automatically setting the parking brakes when system interlocks detect the driver may have forgotten to do so.

The system monitors critical inputs – such as foot brake status, accelerator pedal position, and wheel speed – to help determine when the vehicle should be parked. Intellipark replaces the traditional yellow push-pull dash valve with an easy-to-engage electronic switch that maintains the recognizable symbols while improving ergonomics and eliminating the “sting” associated with manual valves. Built-in LED indicators show the system’s status at a glance.

Thomas Built Buses was the first school bus manufacturer to offer Intellipark, beginning in 2021, as standard equipment on the Saf-T-Liner C2 Jouley electric bus and as an option on the Saf-T-Liner C2 with diesel powertrains. Select IC Bus models also offer Intellipark, and additional manufacturers are working to make the technology available.

Training Keeps Safety Advancing
As school bus safety systems grow more sophisticated, keeping drivers and technicians informed and prepared is paramount. Bendix supports fleets and drivers through hands-on demonstrations, continuous education, and a variety of resources designed to sharpen skills and deepen understanding of how these technologies work in real-world conditions.

Resources include the Bendix YouTube channel and the brake-school.com training portal (offering no-charge access to a wide range of technical courses).

“We remain committed to working with OEMs, school districts, and transportation professionals to deliver the technologies, training, and tools needed to keep passengers safe,” Thomas said. “It’s a mission we’re proud to share – and one that students and families across the country rely on.”

An infographic illustrating key safety technologies for school buses accompanies this release.

About Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC
Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems, a member of Knorr-Bremse, develops and supplies leading-edge active safety technologies, energy management solutions, and air brake charging and control systems and components under the Bendix brand name for medium- and heavy-duty trucks, tractors, trailers, buses, and other commercial vehicles throughout North America. An industry pioneer, employing more than 3,600 people, Bendix is driven to deliver the best solutions for improved vehicle safety, performance, and overall operating cost. Contact us at 1-800-AIR-BRAKE (1-800-247-2725) or visit bendix.com. Stay connected and informed through Bendix expert podcasts, blog posts, videos, and other resources at knowledge-dock.com. Follow Bendix on X, formerly known as Twitter, at x.com/Bendix_CVS. Log on and learn from the Bendix experts at brake-school.com. And to learn more about career opportunities at Bendix, visit bendix.com/careers.

The post A Safer Road Ahead For School Buses appeared first on School Transportation News.

CHAGRIN FALLS, Ohio — As districts nationwide prepare to observe National School Bus Safety Week (October 20–24, 2025), School Transportation Active-Threat Response Training (S.T.A.R.T.) is calling on school leaders to expand the definition of bus safety to include active threat preparedness.

The Ohio-based organization, which has trained thousands of drivers across multiple states including Ohio, Georgia, Tennessee, California, Illinois, and West Virginia, says too few of the nation’s 500,000 school bus drivers have been equipped to recognize warning signs or respond effectively during an active-threat situation.

“Traditional safety measures—like fire drills and evacuation plans—are important, but they don’t go far enough,” said Jim Levine, CEO of S.T.A.R.T. “Today’s threats are different, and drivers must be trained to detect early warning behaviors, stay calm under pressure, and make fast, informed decisions that protect the lives of the 25 million students they transport throughout our nation every day.”

S.T.A.R.T.’s evidence-based training program teaches drivers to identify concerning behavior, communicate effectively under stress, and execute safe, defensive maneuvers during crisis events. The hands-on curriculum was developed by active-duty and former law enforcement, crisis intervention specialists and mental health professionals and is already being adopted by districts of all sizes across the country.

This year’s campaign also comes at a crucial moment: the STOP School Violence Grant—funded by the U.S. Department of Justice—is now open for applications. The grant can help cover the cost of driver safety and active-threat training, allowing districts to strengthen their preparedness without straining local budgets.

“This is a rare and urgent opportunity,” Levine added. “Districts that act now can use STOP Grant funding to train their entire transportation workforce and make sure their drivers are prepared for real-world threats, not just theoretical ones.”

S.T.A.R.T. is encouraging districts to apply for STOP Grant funding before the October 27 submission deadline and to make active-threat response training a key component of their safety strategy. The STOP Grant was created to protect American children by funding evidence-based programs that prevent violence and strengthen school safety. S.T.A.R.T. (School Transportation Active-Threat Response Training) qualifies for the grant because it goes directly to the heart of that mission — providing bus drivers and aides with hands-on training to recognize and respond to potential threats.

For National School Bus Safety Week, S.T.A.R.T. will release daily safety tips, feature testimonials from trained drivers, and share district success stories on its website and social media channels.

“School bus safety must mean more than stop arms and flashing lights,” Levine said. “Preparedness is the new seatbelt — and it can save lives.”

About S.T.A.R.T.
Founded in 2015 and based in Chagrin Falls, Ohio, S.T.A.R.T. (School Transportation Active-Threat Response Training) operates nationwide to prepare school transportation professionals to recognize, prevent, and respond to active threats on and around school buses. The multidisciplinary S.T.A.R.T. team includes active-duty and former law enforcement, SWAT, U.S. Secret Service personnel, crisis-intervention specialists, and mental-health professionals. Training is hands-on, scenario-based, and aligned with district policies and local laws to keep students and staff safe during transport. For more information, visit www.schoolbusstart.com.

The post S.T.A.R.T.™ Urges Nationwide Focus on Active Threat Preparedness Ahead of National School Bus Safety Week appeared first on School Transportation News.

Across the country, school districts are rethinking what it means to move students safely, efficiently and responsibly. For some, that includes exploring or expanding electric bus fleets. For others, it means keeping an eye on how technology and infrastructure evolve before making the switch.

When it comes to powertrain innovation, Thomas Built Buses meets both realities — designing solutions for those ready to make a switch today and learning alongside those who have already gone through the process.

From Insight to Innovation

When Thomas Built introduced the Saf-T-Liner^® eC2 Jouley^®, it marked a milestone — the company’s first Type C electric school bus became an early signal of its commitment to cleaner, smarter student transportation. But Jouley wasn’t just an innovation; it was a learning experience.

Years of real-world operation, supported by feedback from school districts, drivers, dealers and service teams, gave Thomas Built invaluable insight into what electrification looks like in practice — how buses perform in different environments, how charging infrastructure evolves and how drivers adapt to new technology.

That continuous feedback inspired the Saf-T-Liner^® eC2 Jouley^® Gen 2, released earlier this year — a reimagined version built on those lessons, delivering greater efficiency, serviceability and driving dynamics. And it was that same cycle of collaboration and learning that paved the way for Thomas Built’s next step forward: the Saf-T-Liner^® eHDX2 Wattson, the company’s first Type D electric school bus.

“Customer feedback has become one of our most valuable design tools,” says Kendra Eads, vice president of engineering at Daimler Truck Specialty Vehicles, a division of Daimler Truck North America, which includes both Thomas Built Buses and Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation (FCCC). “Every insight from the field helps us refine performance, comfort, driver experience, reliability and serviceability. Those real-world insights translate directly into real innovation.”

No One-Size-Fits-All

Every school district approaches electrification differently. Geography, fleet size, infrastructure and route patterns all play a role in determining what works — and what doesn’t. Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution, Thomas Built has embraced flexibility, ensuring that both Jouley Gen 2 and the new eHDX2 Wattson are available to meet the unique needs of each customer.

With its sales and dealer teams serving as the “ears to the ground,” Thomas Built continually gathers input from the field — capturing what customers value most and where improvements can be made. That feedback moves directly into engineering and design, ensuring that every advancement — from ease of operation to serviceability — is informed by the people who rely on these buses every day.

Co-Creation in Motion

The development of Wattson became a true collaboration, fueled by the lessons learned from Thomas Built’s years of EV leadership with Jouley. Engineers worked hand in hand with districts and dealers to refine everything from torque response and drivability to serviceability and charging accessibility.

The result is a next-generation Type D electric bus that embodies Thomas Built’s learning-driven approach: pairing proven durability with cutting-edge EV technology. Features like the Accelera 14Xe e-Axle, 800-volt battery system and optional 20kW onboard charger reflect customer feedback around performance and infrastructure flexibility.

“Electrification isn’t static — it’s a journey,” adds Eads. “We’re still learning, and so are our customers. That’s what makes this work exciting. Each new model represents what we’ve learned together.”

A Balanced Path Forward

As national policies and state-level commitments shift, the future of electric school transportation remains fluid. Some districts are moving forward with confidence. Others are watching closely as funding and priorities evolve.

For Thomas Built Buses, that reality reinforces the importance of choice. The company continues to invest in advanced diesel, alternative fuels, and electric solutions alike — ensuring that every district, no matter where they are on their journey, can find the right fit for their needs.

With the introduction of Wattson, Thomas Built demonstrates that progress doesn’t mean abandoning practicality. It means offering solutions that balance innovation with reliability, vision with readiness and ambition with real-world application.

Because at the end of the day, the road ahead isn’t just about where the industry is headed — it’s about helping customers get there on their own timeline.

To learn more about the Saf-T-Liner^® eHDX2 Wattson and other Thomas Built Buses products, visit thomasbuiltbuses.com.

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

The post Thomas Built Buses’ Customer-Driven Approach to Type D Electric Innovation appeared first on School Transportation News.

LIVONIA, Mich.— Boys and Girls Club of Martin County continues to prove the long-term value and reliability of propane bus transportation by operating the original Blue Bird Vision bus equipped with ROUSH CleanTech propane fuel system. This first of its kind propane school bus has continually operated in the organization’s daily operation since 2014.

“Our decision to invest in propane technology stemmed from our commitment to environmental responsibility and economic efficiency,” said David Jones, facility manager of Florida’s Boys and Girls Club of Martin County. “We purchased our first propane bus from Florida Transportation Systems in 2014, and it has served as a critical component of our mission to provide after-school and summer programs for area youth.”

The 2012 model year bus, which first served as a demo bus for FTS, has accumulated 65,000 miles while maintaining performance. Due to the success of the first bus, the Boys and Girls Club purchased a second Blue Bird Vision Propane bus in 2015. Both propane buses operate daily, transporting up to 70 students per trip from local schools to club facilities throughout Martin County.

“Since the inception of ROUSH CleanTech 15 years ago, we’ve been working to create safe, reliable and environmentally friendly propane systems for school buses,” said Todd Mouw, executive vice president of ROUSH CleanTech. “Seeing the enduring success of the Boys and Girls Club’s propane buses is a testament to the durability and value of propane technology in school transportation.”

The Boys and Girls Club maintains its propane buses through general maintenance protocols, with mechanical work performed at FTS. Propane fuel costs remain competitive, with on-site fueling provided through a contract with Palmdale Como.

Including this first propane bus off the production line, there are more than 23,000 propane school buses equipped with ROUSH CleanTech fuel systems operating across North America. These propane buses are saving school districts and operators more than $100 million annually in fuel costs while also significantly reducing harmful emissions for children, drivers and surrounding communities.

About ROUSH CleanTech: ROUSH CleanTech, an industry leader of advanced clean transportation solutions, is a division of the global engineering company Roush Enterprises. ROUSH CleanTech develops propane autogas technology for medium-duty Ford commercial vehicles and school buses. With more than 50,000 vehicles on the road, the Livonia, Michigan-based company delivers economical, emissions-reducing options for fleets across North America. Learn more at ROUSHcleantech.com or by calling 800.59.ROUSH.

The post First-Ever ROUSH CleanTech Propane Bus Efficiently Transporting Children Over a Decade Later appeared first on School Transportation News.

School bus driver training is well recognized as a crucial part of safe student transportation, but it’s equally important to make sure attendants are fully equipped for their role, especially when working with students with special needs or disabilities. New training at the Transporting Students with Disabilities and Special Needs (TSD) Conference will dive into this important aspect of student transportation.

Launi Harden, a former transportation director at Washington County School District in Utah and now consultant at Launi’s Transportation Solutions, will lead this session alongside Josy Campbell, operations manager at Harrison Schools District Two in Colorado. During this three-hour training on Monday, Nov. 10 at the TSD Conference, Harden and Campbell will provide an overview of the importance of attendants in safe student transportation and guidelines to ensure they receive adequate training for their role.

The session will help guide attendees through crucial aspects that should be covered in attendant training, such as safety best practices, federal regulations and policies, emergency procedures, proper usage of safety restraints and securement of wheelchairs, behavioral reinforcement, sensitivity training, effective communication, an introduction to Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), boarding and deboarding techniques, pre-trip checks, and more. Throughout the interactive session, attendees will have a chance to ask questions from the expert speakers and discuss practices with student transportation professionals from districts around the country.

This session will follow other integral educational sessions throughout the conference such as “Foundations of Special Needs Transportation,” “Understanding & Appreciating the ‘Federal 13’ Exceptional Abilities of Students,” “Top 10 Occupant Restraint Concerns When Transporting Preschoolers & Students with Disabilities,” “Teaching Bus Safety to Students with Disabilities: Strategies Across Ages and Abilities,” “Safe Transportation of Students with Sensory Challenges,” “Utilizing Educational Ecosystem Partnerships to Model Onboard Behavior for Students,” as well as hands-on training for wheelchair and passenger safety securement. Together, these sessions will provide attendees with a holistic and practical approach to improving best practices in the transportation of students with special needs and disabilities.

The TSD Conference will be held Nov. 6 through Nov. 11 at Embassy Suites Dallas-Frisco Hotel and Convention Center. Visit tsdconference.com to register and view the conference agenda, which includes dozens of educational sessions, hands-on training, networking events, product demonstrations and keynotes all focused on transportation of students with special needs.

---

Related: TSD Keynote to Outline Legal Considerations When Transporting Students with Disabilities
Related: TSD Conference to Feature American Sign Language Training for Student Transporters
Related: Former OSERS Leader, Advocate for People with Disabilities to Keynote TSD Conference

The post New TSD Conference School Bus Attendant Seminar to Provide Training Guidelines appeared first on School Transportation News.

A newly created safety fund will award Ohio school districts with grants to update their fleets with safety features, like seatbelts.

The Ohio School Bus Working Group, called by Gov. Mike DeWine following the August 2024 ejection and death of 11-year-old Aidan Clark after his school bus was struck by an oncoming truck, issued final recommendations after five months of in-person meetings.

HB3 passed the state House unanimously in June to address some of the recommendations. In addition to creating the grant fund program, it also seeks to increase fines of illegally passing motorists and to designate the month of August as School Bus Safety Awareness Month.

While the bill awaits passage in the Senate, DeWine announced that the School Bus Safety Grant Program application has launched, and applications are being accepted Oct. 15 through Nov.14. The program will provide a total of $10 million in competitive school bus safety grants.

---

Related: Ohio School Bus Safety Act Raises Awareness of Illegal Passing
Related: Ohio Bill Seeks School Bus Illegal Passing Fine Increase, Safety Fund
Related: Ohio Teen Escapes Abduction Attempt While Waiting for School Bus; Suspect in Custody
Related: Texas School District Updates Seatbelt Policy Following School Bus Rollover
Related: School Bus Seatbelt Law Appears Imminent in Illinois

---

Eligible applicants include city, local, exempted village and joint vocational school districts as well as community schools, chartered nonpublic schools, STEM schools, educational service centers, and county boards of developmental disabilities. The grants can go toward “the repair, replacement, or addition of authorized school bus safety features to school buses in active service or for safety enhancements to the purchase of a new school bus” the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce lists on its website. “The program is designed for flexibility to allow for tailored purchases that meet specific safety needs, while also considering finances.”

Rudolph Breglia, an advocate for seatbelts in Ohio, said in his testimony at a House committee hearing on HB3 in April that priority of grant funding should be given to the installation of lap/shoulder seatbelts in school buses, “since these safety tools directly protect children from injury and death in the event of a school bus incident. Children always need direct protection provided by seatbelts since traffic accidents will always occur regardless of how hard we try to prevent accidents by adding preventative measures to school buses,” he continued, adding that applications should also be advised that evidence exists that installing lap/shoulder seatbelts has reached the status of a “Standard of Care” or “best practice.”

The post Ohio School Bus Grant Program Launches, $10M Available appeared first on School Transportation News.

For the first time, school bus drivers at Lee County School District underwent advanced scenario-based training, including simulations of real-life situations such as active shooter incidents and de-escalation techniques.

Launched ahead of the school year, the initiative was developed in collaboration with several district departments, including academics, human resources, exceptional student education (ESE), and health services, with the goal of creating more dynamic, hands-on training experiences. The move comes amid growing concerns about safety and the vulnerabilities inherent in student transportation.

The idea for a more immersive training experience originated as a desire to break away from the traditional format of lectures and PowerPoint presentations. When asked how the training was developed in collaboration with other departments, Jarriad McKinney, executive director of transportation and logistical services, told STN that it began with a conversation about annual compliance training with health services and academics.

“I told them I wanted the training to be more engaging for staff, not just the norm of sitting in an auditorium, listening to presentations,” McKinney said. “We then invited all parties to the table to collaborate. Everyone was given topics and created presentations based on their area of expertise.”

The program included real-world scenarios selected in part due to recent incidents in the district, including cases where individuals boarded buses and assaulted drivers. These events prompted a partnership with the Sheriff’s Office and ONE Training to develop hands-on sessions on de-escalation and emergency response. Members of law enforcement observed the sessions and offered on-the-spot feedback to drivers.

“The training was an eye-opener for the staff,” McKinney said. “No one wants anything bad to happen, but we live in a day and age where anything is possible. You’re better off being prepared and having an idea of how to respond.”

One standout training, “Happy Bus,” focused on the emotional climate drivers create and its impact on students. “Behaviors are just the tip of the iceberg,” McKinney said. “We have to learn to address the root cause and not feed into what just lies on the surface.”

A classroom-style structure replaced the usual auditorium setup, breaking staff into smaller groups and allowing for more active participation. Drivers followed a bell schedule, giving them time between sessions to walk in the halls, connect with peers, and reflect.

“The employees loved the training,” McKinney said. “Everyone I talked to, enjoyed the change and appreciated the opportunity to engage with district staff. It reinforced that support is out there for them.”

David Newlan, chief of safety, security and fleet operations and a former police chief, told local news reporters that the training reflects a broader strategic focus on bus safety within the district.

“Knowing one of the district’s vulnerabilities being the buses, we wanted to prepare our drivers as much as possible,” he said.

McKinney emphasized the importance of team-based planning in creating effective training. He encouraged other districts to adopt a collaborative approach., “Working together increases rapport and understanding,” he said. “It’s vital for staff to have a solid grasp of the material we provide annually. Changing things up and getting creative makes all the difference.”

He added that the small group setup helped foster more meaningful conversations. “It allows for healthier discussions and a better understanding of what is being taught,” he added.

When asked whether the training will be expanded or refreshed in the future, McKinney told STN the district plans to enhance the program further next year. “We’ll add more departments for context,” he said.

The district is also working closely with the State Attorney’s Office and local law enforcement to implement new legal protections for school buses and drivers, including measures to address unsafe driving near buses and unauthorized boardings.

Ultimately, the training is as much about emotional safety and student connection as it is about emergency protocols.

---

Related: (STN Podcast E277) Make the System Better: Safety Leadership Training & D.C. Insider on Disability Supports
Related: Vermont School District Boosts Pay, Offers Training to Attract Bus Drivers
Related: Hands-on Training Opportunities for Student Transporters at TSD Conference
Related: Wisconsin State Police, School Bus Association Promote School Bus Safety

The post Florida District Introduces Innovative Safety Training for School Bus Drivers appeared first on School Transportation News.

Headlines include federal restrictions on undocumented workers obtaining CDLs and an investment into education technology.

Transfinder President and CEO Antonio Civitella shares how the company’s technology tools support students with special needs and discusses the value in participating in the free annual Top Transportation Teams program.

Special education attorney and returning TSD Conference keynote speaker Betsey Helfrich joins us to discuss current legal issues such as bus video and student cellphones, as well as overall support for students with special needs.

Read more about special needs and register for the TSD Conference.

Conversation with Transfinder.

 

Message from School Bus Safety Co.

 

Message from Ride.

 

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

The post (STN Podcast E278) Expert Advice: Special Needs Legal Spotlight, Technology & Top Teams appeared first on School Transportation News.

MISSOULA, Mont. –, a pioneer in student transportation software for K-12 school districts, announced it has received a strategic growth investment from Serent Capital, a growth-focused private equity firm that partners with founder-led, B2B SaaS and technology companies.

For nearly 50 years, Edulog has grown from introducing one of the first algorithmic bus routing systems in North America to serving thousands of school districts across the U.S. and Canada. Edulog’s software solutions are designed to enhance student safety, improve operational efficiency, and reduce transportation costs.

“Our mission is to help school districts make the most of their resources. With Serent’s backing, we can broaden our reach to even more districts and families across the country, and continue to lead the industry in innovation,” said Dr. Hien Nguyen, who founded Edulog in 1977.

In addition to expanding Edulog’s presence, the investment will support new developments in its cloud-native platform, Athena. “We’ve always been driven by innovation, and this partnership gives us greater capacity to strengthen the tools that districts rely on to manage student transportation,” said Sam Bull, CEO of Edulog. Athena’s roadmap includes enhancements in Edulog’s unrivaled optimization suite (which already includes depot, stop, special needs, run, route, and bell time optimization), as well as its user dashboards, parent engagement tools, and driver tools.

As part of the investment, vertical SaaS executive Perry Turbes will join Edulog’s Board of Directors as Executive Chair through Serent’s Operating Executive Director (OED) program. The OED program pairs experienced former CEOs with portfolio companies to provide strategic guidance and hands-on support. Turbes brings deep operational expertise and will work closely with the Edulog team to help scale the business and advance its mission.

“Edulog has already made a meaningful impact in K-12 transportation,” said Dexter Hopen, Partner at Serent Capital. “We are committed to providing resources that will support their continued growth and success.”

The addition of Edulog marks Serent Capital’s twelfth investment in the education market, reflecting a strong track record of founder-led partnerships. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

About Edulog: Edulog is a pioneer and market leader in K-12 student transportation technology. Since 1977, Edulog has helped thousands of school districts transport students safely, efficiently, and intelligently. The company’s Athena platform is a modern, cloud-based solution that includes routing optimization, GPS tracking, parent and driver portals, and advanced analytics. Edulog’s mission is to put money back in the classroom by optimizing transportation, reducing costs, and improving student experiences. Learn more at www.edulog.com.

About Serent Capital: Serent Capital is a growth-focused private equity firm investing in capital-efficient B2B SaaS and technology companies. Since its inception, Serent has taken a distinctly different approach, prioritizing founders and their companies and delivering true hands-on partnership through its in-house Growth Team of more than 25 professionals.

By partnering with Serent, founders gain access to strategic and operational resources aimed to accelerate growth, including revenue generation support, executive hiring, transformative M&A guidance, and a curated network of more than 400 founders and operating executives. With $5.9 billion in assets under management, Serent has partnered with more than 70 founder-led, industry-changing companies, helping them scale with speed, efficiency, and confidence. Discover more at www.serentcapital.com.

The post Edulog Receives Strategic Growth Investment from Serent Capital to Advance K-12 Transportation Technology appeared first on School Transportation News.

Software company Edulog is using an infusion of private equity funding to expand its presence in the K-12 student transportation routing market and support new developments with its Athena cloud-native platform, while also streamlining company operations.

The family-run company founded in 1977 and based in Missoula, Montana announced Tuesday it is partnering with private equity firm Serent Capital. Details of the deal were not disclosed.

“Our mission is to help school districts make the most of their resources. With Serent’s backing, we can broaden our reach to even more districts and families across the country, and continue to lead the industry in innovation,” commented Edulog founder Dr. Hien Nguyen.

Company spokeswoman Lam Nguyen-Bull explained to School Transportation News the strategic growth investment will allow Edulog to work with a wider range of clients than in recent years, which is expected to make Athena more accessible and intuitive to school districts, regardless if they contract for a part-time route or a employ team of on-staff routers.

Athena is a modular, configurable, cloud-based routing platform designed for school districts of all sizes. Edulog said it integrates with student information systems to pull and populate transportation routers and eligibility with customizable maps, select and assign stops to runs and communicate with parents via a portal.

The Athena software roadmap includes enhancements in what CEO Sam Bull referred to in a statement as Edulog’s “unrivaled optimization suite.” It already includes depot, stop, special needs, run, route and bell time optimization, he noted.

Nguyen-Bull added that it also provides more intuitive dashboards, deeper reporting and a better ability to track ROI through cost savings, route efficiency and route utilization.

“We’re also building AI-driven features to layer on top of our unique industry leading mathematical algorithmic optimization to support proactive planning and faster decision-making,” she said. “In addition, we’re expanding our modules by enhancing tools like our parent and driver portals and exploring new capabilities like field trip management, fleet maintenance and dismissal workflows that can simplify operations even further.”

Part of the deal includes adding Perry Turbes, Serent’s senior operating executive, to Edulog’s board of directors as executive chair. He will oversee Serent’s Operating Executive Director program, which pairs experienced former CEOs with portfolio companies to provide strategic guidance and hands-on support.

Meanwhile, it’s business as usual for Edulog customers but with increased support, Nguyen-Bull added.

“The teams and faces our customers know aren’t going anywhere. What is changing is the level of investment in the things that matter most: Faster enhancements, more personalized service and a clearer voice for customers in the future of our platform,” she said.

---

Related: Retired NC State Director Graham Aligns with Edulog
Related: Ins, Outs of Routing Software Discussed at STN EXPO Reno
Related: New Technology Provides Data to School Bus Routing

The post Edulog Looks to Strategic Growth Investment to Bolster Athena, Streamline Business appeared first on School Transportation News.

A family in Forward Township, Pennsylvania, has been displaced after a school bus crashed through the front of their home, causing significant damage, reported CBS News.

The crash reportedly occurred around 3:30 p.m. Oct. 6. Authorities say a school bus operated by Rittenhouse Bus Lines struck a parked pickup truck in front of the home. The impact pushed the truck through the front porch and into the corner of the house, causing extensive structural damage.

Joe Ferson, who was inside the home with his daughter at the time, recalled the terrifying moment.

“I hear this commotion like a freight train and the next thing I know, the walls of my house are lifting off the ground,” Ferson said via the article. “My truck is in my living room, water spraying everywhere and I come outside to a bus into my truck into my house.”

There were no children on board the bus at the time of the crash. The driver was taken to the hospital for evaluation, but no other injuries were reported.

Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, and the Red Cross was called in to assist the family. Forward Township’s building inspector is currently assessing the damage to determine whether the home is safe to reenter. The cause of the crash is still under investigation.

---

Related: Oklahoma School Bus Carrying Softball Team Crashes, Injuring 7
Related: Illinois School Bus Crashes into Home
Related: Tennessee Student Hurt, Driver Cited After Nearly Crashing School Bus into Home
Related: North Carolina School Bus Crashes into Home

The post School Bus Crashes into Pennsylvania Home appeared first on School Transportation News.

As schools reopen, students are flooding back to campuses on foot, bicycles, cars and school buses, bringing with them a spike in safety risks. The chaotic rush of drop-offs and pickups creates a perfect storm of traffic congestion, stressed drivers and heightened dangers around school zones.

With nearly 60 percent of parents citing concerns about school bus safety, pedestrian crossings and traffic management, according to a 2024 National Association of Elementary School Principals survey, the start of the
school year underscores safety challenges.

The frenzied pace of these early weeks amplifies risks, as distracted or hurried drivers navigate crowded school zones, increasing the likelihood of crashes. Data from Safe Kids Worldwide notes one in three drivers engage in unsafe behaviors during school drop-offs, while a 2024 National Center for Education Statistics survey noted 38 percent of school leaders see traffic patterns as a threat to student safety.

The question looms: Have safety measures kept pace with the growing hazards of the 2025 school start-up season?

According to the most recent National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services one day illegal passing survey, 218,000 illegal passing incidents were reported by 114,471 school bus drivers, or 31 percent of the nation’s total. These drivers reported a total of 69,408 vehicles passed their buses illegally. Extrapolated for a 180-day school year across all 50 states, 39.3 million illegal passes occur. The one-day count does represent a 13-percent decrease over last year’s 45.2 million but illegal passing remains a massive safety issue.

Last month, the Automobile Club of Southern California, an affiliate of AAA, shared specific tips for navigating school zones safely on social network X. It specifically advised “Watch for School Buses” and reminded drivers to slow down when a school bus yellow lights flash and to stop completely when red lights flash and the stop arm is extended.

AAA also emphasizes eliminating distractions like phone use, as distracted driving contributes to 4,000 to 8,000 crashes daily across the U.S. Drivers should put phones on “Do Not Disturb” or pull over safely to respond to urgent calls or texts.

Jeff Cassell from the School Bus Safety Company recently reminded me of behavioral norms, or the way we act without thinking about it. Norms are very powerful and govern most of what we do. For example, a safe driver always tries to stay at least four seconds in distance behind the vehicle they are following. They do this automatically as a norm. Cassell said following from a safe distance is an important practice, but there are dozens more safe practices we need to implement.

After extensive studies, he’s clearly identified 22 unsafe behaviors that lead to almost every crash. Cassell provided several recommendations to help prevent crashes around school buses. He emphasized minimizing student street crossings whenever possible, educating students on safe crossing practices, informing parents about these procedures, ensuring school bus drivers enforce them, and considering an extended stop arm.

Cassell also suggested specific morning and afternoon guidelines for students and parents. In the morning, students should wait at least 10 feet (five big steps) from the edge of the roadway, look at the bus driver after the bus stops, cross only when signaled by the driver, and walk directly across without running. In the afternoon, students should walk 10 feet away from the bus, move 10 feet ahead of the bus or crossing arm at the front of the bus, look at the driver and cross only when signaled. They should always check for traffic and wait if uncertain about moving vehicles. By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of crossing accidents.

I recommend highlighting School Bus Safety Week, Oct. 20-24. It’s a great time to bring awareness to the dangers that exist around schools and school buses.

Also, NHTSA recently released updated School Bus Safety Resources, including shareable graphics, videos and statistics. Visit www.nhtsa.gov/school-buses to download the materials.

Leadership training around safety starts with leaders like you who can influence a culture of safety. I recommend you reinforce positive behaviors and establish norms to keep your school bus drivers, kids and parents updated about safe behaviors around the school bus. Safety and the elimination of risk should always be a main priority.

Editor’s Note: As reprinted from the September 2025 issue of School Transportation News.

---

Related: (STN Podcast E277) Make the System Better: Safety Leadership Training & D.C. Insider on Disability Supports
Related: School Bus Safety Company Unveils New Leadership Training Course to Elevate Safety Leadership
Related: Wisconsin State Police, School Bus Association Promote School Bus Safety
Related: Georgia Middle School Student Wins National School Bus Safety Poster Contest

The post School Zone: Safety Risks Surge appeared first on School Transportation News.

A webinar gave advice on meeting community needs with school bus service while also making efficient operational decisions.

“We know back to school is behind us, but the heavy lifting is not over,” said Tammy Cook, senior transportation advisor and board member of webinar sponsor Pathwise, during the Thursday presentation

The other panelists were Michael Roche, VP of customer engagement and business development for EZRouting, and Carl Allen, chief executive officer of 4MATIV, both of whom served as transportation directors for school districts.

Roche noted that a big challenge for school districts is bridging the gap between planned and actual ridership. He encouraged districts to use anything from manual headcounts to RFID card tracking to determine actual ridership numbers. Allen added that teachers and school staff can help by noting which buses seem emptier.

“You want to be sure your data is grounded in reality and not just assumptions from the summer,” Roche said. He and Allen advised loading accurate bell time data into routing software and coordinating with individual schools, which assists in making small adjustments in bus routing and tiered schedules.

“Buses will fill up with kids or time,” Allen quipped.

Each fall, Roche said that transportation staff, who often have spent the previous months in school startup “survival mode,” have a chance to catch their breath and look for efficiencies. He advised re-analyzing routes that have 25 to 50 percent underutilization.

Ridership data can be used to drive smarter scheduling, said Cook. While a headcount could tally the same ridership numbers across different days, Allen urged drilling into the data and counting exactly which students are riding the bus and when.

While seeking efficiencies, Allen cautioned districts to be aware of compliance issues, such as ensuring students with special needs always receive their legally mandated transportation. When routing, Roche said he adds buffers since student ridership can increase during the winter months or ones that coincide with individual sports off seasons.

“Just because they aren’t riding now doesn’t mean they won’t,” Cook agreed.

Allen noted that stop removal or consolidation boosts efficiency but requires communication and collaboration with parents, since they have already planned for their set bus stops. Parents may be more inclined to agree to bus stop changes if they know their stop can be reinstated, he said.

Roche agreed that due diligence should be performed to ensure that no one is using a particular bus stop before it is removed outright. He also noted that some districts use vans or sedans to shuttle rural students to a centralized bus stop location.

“Be thoughtful and communicative and transparent with your families,” Allen encouraged.

---

Related: Ins, Outs of Routing Software Discussed at STN EXPO Reno
Related: Rethinking School Startup for Students with Special Needs
Related: Avoiding False Starts
Related: Navigating Parental Transportation Concerns Amid School Startup

---

Roche advised soliciting community and district staff feedback on bus stop and routing changes. For instance, having a school receive students five minutes early could get 20 buses back on the route on time, but union requirements affect the hours school staff can work. Negotiation is necessary, Allen said.

Allen advised collecting key performance indicators – including on-time performance metrics, safety metrics, bus capacity utilization and driver performance – and then using them to effect changes, which should be slowly implemented so families and staff can effectively adjust. He also encouraged districts to route students as they enroll throughout the year, respond promptly to parent concerns, and reevaluate operations to ensure progress is being made.

Having this data helps legitimize transportation department requests and effect necessary changes at the district administration level, Roche underscored.

Roche pointed out that a route could be covered but still consistently running two hours late or repeatedly requiring substitute drivers, which signals improvement is needed. He noted that efficiency means different things to different operations. Each district has its own goals, with the ultimate goal being safe service to students.

Watch the webinar on demand.

The post From First Day to Fine-Tuning: Webinar Gives School Bus Routing Tips appeared first on School Transportation News.

A 17-year-old male was arrested in connection with a crash that left a 15-year-old student severely injured while waiting for his school bus last month, reported WIVB 4 News.

The incident reportedly took place just before 7 a.m. on Sept. 4, when the 17-year-old driver was traveling south in a Ford Explorer, veered off the roadway, drove through a front yard, and collided with a parked vehicle in a driveway.

The impact caused the parked car to strike the 15-year-old boy, who was standing nearby waiting for the school bus. The victim was transported to Erie County Medical Center (ECMC), where he was treated for severe leg injuries. The 17-year-old driver was also taken to ECMC for evaluation.

Following an investigation, police said that cannabis was detected in the driver’s bloodstream at the time of the crash. A further search of the vehicle uncovered two unfinished lower frames of a ghost gun pistol, along with an AR-15-style rifle, leading to serious concerns about the possession of unregistered firearms by a minor.

On Tuesday, the teen was charged with second-degree assault and second-degree vehicular assault. He also faces two counts of fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon, driving while impaired by drugs, and multiple vehicle and traffic violations. He was arraigned in youth court and remanded to the Oneida County Jail on $100,000 cash bail.

Authorities have not released the names of either the driver or the injured student because they are minors. The investigation remains ongoing.

---

Related: Louisiana Child Hit by Truck, 19-Year-Old Driver Arrested
Related: Missouri Teens Arrested After Forcing Themselves Onto Independence School Bus
Related: Teen Sentenced to 25 Years for Attempted Murder in Maryland
Related: Pennsylvania Student Arrested After Allegedly Bringing Gun on School Bus

The post Teen Arrested After Allegedly Hitting Student Waiting for School Bus in New York appeared first on School Transportation News.

Some school districts and school bus companies in search of drivers may need to look even harder after a federal rule outlaws the issuing of CDLs to non-U.S. citizens.

Many U.S. states are pausing or suspending the issuance of non-domiciled commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) in response to U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy’s Sept. 26 announcement of an emergency action to drastically restrict who is eligible for a non-domiciled commercial learner’s permits (CLPs) and CDLs.

Editor’s — This article has been updated to include more comments from states that responded to questions the initial publication. STN will provide further updates as more states respond.

According to the announcement, the rule — effective immediately — comes in response to an ongoing nationwide audit by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and “a recent series of horrific, fatal crashes caused by non-domiciled drivers.”

The rule impacts nearly 200,000 current non-domiciled CDL holders and 20,000 CLP holders. FMCSA estimates about 6,000 drivers will qualify for non-domiciled credentials annually under the new restrictions.

It was unknown at this report how many of those are school bus drivers.

Duffy’s announcement indicates the audit uncovered “a catastrophic pattern of states issuing licenses illegally to foreign drivers, as well as the fact that even if the current regulatory framework is followed, it can fail.

“The confluence of these two factors has created an imminent hazard on America’s roadways that must be fixed,” a press release states.

Moving forward, non-citizens are ineligible for a non-domiciled CDL unless they meet a much stricter set of rules, including obtaining an employment-based visa and undergoing a mandatory federal immigration status check using the SAVE system.

SAVE is an online service for registered federal, state, territorial, tribal, and local government agencies to verify immigration status and naturalized/acquired U.S. citizenship of applicants seeking benefits or licenses.

“What our team has discovered should disturb and anger every American,” said Duffy, noting that CDLs are being issued to “dangerous foreign drivers – oftentimes illegally. This is a direct threat to the safety of every family on the road, and I won’t stand for it,” he continued.

FMCSA’s nationwide audit of non-domiciled CDLs uncovered systemic non-compliance across several states, the announcement noted, adding “the worst and most egregious in California. Due to weak oversight, insufficient training and programming errors, the agency found a large number of non-domiciled CDLs were issued to ineligible drivers and those whose licenses were valid long after their lawful presence in the U.S. expired.”

The audit indicates more than 25 percent of non-domiciled CDLs reviewed in California were improperly issued. U.S. DOT cited one case in which the state issued a driver from Brazil a CDL with endorsements to drive a passenger bus and a school bus that remained valid for months after his legal presence in the country expired.

As a result, Duffy also announced direct enforcement action against California, indicating the state must immediately pause issuance of non-domiciled CDLs, identify all unexpired non-domiciled CDLs that fail to comply with FMCSA regulations, and revoke and reissue all noncompliant non-domiciled CDLs if they comply with the new federal requirements.
Duffy gave California 30 days to come into compliance or FMCSA will withhold federal highway funds, starting at nearly $160 million in the first year and doubling in year two.

Jonathan Groveman, an information officer with the California Department of Motor Vehicles, told School Transportation News the agency is currently reviewing the federal government’s issued guidance within the federal government’s 30-day period.

Duffy indicated FMCSA’s findings are in addition to at least five fatal crashes occurring since January involving non-domiciled CDL holders, prompting what it calls Duffy’s urgent action to “combat the direct threat to national security and the hazard to public safety.”

Colorado, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Texas, and Washington were also identified as states with licensing patterns not consistent with federal regulations.

The action limits individuals eligible for non-domiciled CLPs and CDLs to foreign individuals in lawful status in the U.S. in certain employment-based, non-immigrant categories, certain individuals domiciled in a U.S. territory, and individuals domiciled in a state that is prohibited from issuing CLPs or CDLs because FMCSA has decertified the state’s CDL program.

It also requires:

• Non-citizen applicants — except for lawful permanent residents — to provide an unexpired foreign passport and an unexpired Form I-94/94A (Arrival/Departure Record) indicating one of the specified employment-based nonimmigrant categories, specifically H2-B, H2-A, and E-2 visas, at every issuance, transfer, renewal, and upgrade action de-fined in the regulation.

• State drivers licensing agencies (SDLA) to query the SAVE system, which is administered by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, to verify the accuracy and legitimacy of provided documents and information.

• SDLAs retain copies of the application documents for at least two years.

• The expiration date for any non-domiciled CLP or CDL to match the expiration date of the Form I-94/94A or to expire in one year, whichever is sooner.

• The applicant to be present in person at each renewal.

• An SDLA to downgrade the non-domiciled CLP or CDL if the state becomes aware that the holder is no longer eligible to hold a non-domiciled CLP or CDL.

STN reached out to all 50 state agencies that issue CDLs, with several state websites announcing changes.

The Colorado DMV provided a statement to STN that effective Sept. 29 it paused all commercial drivers issuances and renewals of term-limited or non-domiciled CDLs and CLPs.

A spokesperson for the Georgia Department of Driver Services told STN the state is complying with the new federal ruling by only issuing CDLs to permanent residents that have acceptable visas.

In New Mexico, the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) announced it also paused its issuance and renewal of CDLs and CLPs to certain non-domiciled foreign individuals as of Sept. 29 to comply with the emergency interim final rules issued by the FMCSA.

The MVD statement reads that the agency’s pause in CDL and CPL issuance and renewal affects foreign nationals relying on an employment zuthorization card to substantiate their authorization to work in the U.S. and it will continue to issue CDLs and CLPs to foreign nationals who present a foreign passport with an approved I-94 Arrival/Departure record.

“New Mexico law complies with all federal requirements for the issuance of CDLs and CLPs to non-domiciled individuals,” according to the statement. “Currently, 204 CDLs and CLPs have been issued to non-domiciled individuals in New Mexico. 2

Legislation introduced in 2022 on behalf of MVD added requirements for issuances of CDLs and CLPs to foreign nationals who demonstrate lawful status in the U.S. Individuals who seek a new or renewed non-domiciled CDL or CLP based on an employment authorization card will not be able to complete their transaction through MVD or its partner offices at this time.’

Regarding school bus drivers, Megan Gleason, public information officer for the New Mexico Department of Taxation and Revenue, noted, “There is a specific endorsement — an S (school bus) endorsement — on commercial driver’s licenses that authorizes drivers to operate a school bus transporting students to and from school or school-sponsored activities.

“When applied to a commercial learner’s permit, the endorsement serves solely for testing purposes, permitting the driver to complete the required skills examination to qualify for the endorsement on their commercial driver’s license,” she said.

Current data on active and total endorsements in New Mexico, indicates there are four active non-domicile CDLs, a total of eight non-domicile CDLs since 2022, one active non-domicile CLPs, and a total of nine CLPs since 2022.

Gleason said the same requirement for a foreign passport with an I-94 for an H2/H2A/E2 visa remains for those drivers at the time of renewal.

---

Related: U.S. DOT Proposes Rule to Add Fentanyl to CDL Drug Testing Program
Related: FMCSA Grant to Enhance CDL Testing in New Jersey
Related: FMCSA Proposal Seeks to Quicken CDL Process

---

A Texas Department of Public Safety spokesperson told STN all currently issued CDLs, including those to school bus drivers with appropriate endorsements, will remain valid and only the issuance of new CDLs and commercial learners permits, or CLPs, has been halted.

An additional statement from the agency, which issues CDLs and CLPs in Texas, noted that non-citizens include refugees, asylum seekers, and recipients of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA.

“Customers with a pending issuance will not be allowed to continue any written or skills testing until the services for non-domicile CDL/CLP are reinstated” DPS added.

Other states changes include:

• The Arizona Department of Transportation said in a statement, “it is aware of the new federal guidelines and has instituted them for all new CDL issuances as well as renewals, which includes those seeking CDLs with passenger and school bus endorsements. There are approximately 125,000 CDLs in Arizona, and of those 800 are non-domiciled CDLs.” Though information related to school bus drivers was not known.

• Indiana noted its Bureau of Motor Vehicles has ceased processing all applications for non-domiciled CDL/CLPs, including applications for new, amended, duplicated, transferred, renewed, or upgraded non-domiciled CDL/CLPs. Affected non-domiciled CDL/CLP customers may submit an application at a BMV license branch to apply for or downgrade to a non-CDL driver’s license should they so choose.

• Maryland paused the issuance of all non-domiciled commercial driver products until further notice. This includes issuance, transfers, updates, replacements, duplicates, and renewals of both non-domiciled CLPs and non-domiciled CDLs, adding ‘we apologize for the inconvenience.’

• Massachusetts also apologetically indicated it has paused the issuance of all non-domiciled commercial driver credentials until further notice, including issuance, transfers, updates, replacements, duplicates, and renewals of both non-domiciled CLPs and non-domiciled CDLs.

• Missouri suspended all new, renewal and duplicate nondomiciled CDL and CLP issuance until further notice, including a suspension of knowledge and skills testing for any in-state or out-of-state test applicant who would be restricted to a non-domiciled CDL or CLP.

• Oregon DMV is no longer issuing limited-term (non-domiciled) CDLs and CLPs until further notice.

• Utah has paused issuing non-domiciled CDLs.

• The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) Office of Public Affairs issued a statement. “Due to the recent interim final rule issued by the FMCSA, like many states across the country, WisDOT Division of Motor Vehicles has paused its non-domiciled CDLs and CLPs issuance program to ensure compliance with the interim final rule. Wisconsin already had many of the new rule’s regulations in place. As we work to resolve any remaining issues, we will communicate the status of our program to impacted individuals on our website and at our DMV service centers.”

The post Update: U.S. Department of Transportation Enacts CDL Restrictions on Non-Domiciled Workers appeared first on School Transportation News.

A newly added session at the Transporting Students with Disabilities and Special Needs (TSD) Conference next month looks to guide student transportation professionals in prioritizing mental health support for themselves to positively impact themselves and the students they transport.

The “Mental Health First Aid Supports for Transportation” session will be held on Saturday, Nov. 8 and presented by licensed school counselor Kemberly Edwards. She plans to detail the best practices that can put student transportation staff in a better and healthier mental space, which in turn can expand their bandwidth to support and de-escalate students as they work through behavioral and emotional challenges. Edwards plans to go beyond generic self-care techniques and provide concrete strategies to benefit transportation staff as they navigate the day-to-day challenges of their work and help forge strong connections with their students.

Edwards, former director of counseling​ at Mesquite Independent School District in Texas and and manager of the district’s CARE Clinic, has been in the education field for almost 30 years. As a licensed professional counselor, she has a passion for assisting students and educational professionals amid a spike in mental health challenges.

The CARE clinic opened in 2017 to provides free services to Mesquite ISD students, their families and district staff. The clinic held over 12,000 counseling sessions last year. Edwards, who specializes in trauma therapy and has worked closely with her district’s transportation department, described her work as “wraparound services,” covering emotional and social wellness as well as self-regulation. Edwards is currently an educational consultant and has a bachelor’s degree in social work and a master’s degree in counseling.

The TSD Conference will be held Nov. 6 through Nov. 11 at Embassy Suites Dallas-Frisco Hotel and Convention Center. Visit tsdconference.com to register and view the conference agenda, which includes dozens of educational sessions, hands-on training, networking events, product demonstrations and keynotes all focused on transportation of students with special needs.

---

Related: TSD Keynote Speaker Looks to Reveal Power of Praise in Student Transportation
Related: Mother of Sandy Hook Victim Brings Student Safety Message to TSD
Related: Former OSERS Leader, Advocate for People with Disabilities to Keynote TSD Conference

The post TSD Conference Session to Focus on Mental Health Supports appeared first on School Transportation News.

Join us for an engaging discussion on how propane autogas is transforming student transportation by creating healthier, cleaner, and more affordable school bus fleets. This webinar brings together experts and on-the-ground voices to share insights into the benefits of propane-powered school buses for both students and staff.

In this information-packed session, you’ll hear from:

• American Lung Association: How propane buses reduce harmful emissions and improve respiratory health in school communities.
• Blue Bird: A leading manufacturer of propane school buses about the latest innovations driving propane autogas adoption across the country.
• School District Leadership: A school district transportation director and maintenance supervisor will share their real-world experiences with propane buses, from cost savings and reliability to driver and technician feedback.

Register today to explore practical strategies and proven results that can help your district move toward a cleaner, more cost-effective transportation future.

Brought to you by the Propane Education & Research Council

REGISTER BELOW:

The post (Free Webinar) Driving the Future of Healthy, Cost-Effective Student Transportation with Propane Autogas appeared first on School Transportation News.

A young child was hailed as a hero for taking quick, life-saving action after passing a handwritten note asking their school bus driver to call 911, reported WLBT News.

According to the news report, the bus driver immediately followed the instructions and contacted emergency services Sept. 24 just before 7:30 a.m. Deputies were sent to a rural home, where they discovered the child’s mother had been the victim of a violent assault that lasted through the night.

Investigators said article the woman had been seriously injured by the suspect, 29-year-old Glenroy Miller of the Bahamas, who allegedly held a knife to her throat and wrists while threatening to kill her. At one point, Miller reportedly began to take the victim to a hospital but turned around after realizing he could be arrested, forcing her to remain at home without access to help.

When deputies reportedly arrived at the residence, Miller answered the door. The woman, visibly upset and bruised, emerged from a bedroom shortly after. She was taken to the hospital, where an exam revealed she had suffered two broken ribs and a punctured lung, from being kicked.

Authorities said the mother had written the note herself and asked her child to deliver it in hopes of getting help. Because she was being held against her will and prevented from calling for assistance, she relied on her child to act.

Miller was reportedly taken into custody and now faces multiple charges. Officials are praising the young student’s courage and the bus driver’s swift response, crediting both with playing a crucial role in rescuing the woman from a dangerous situation.

---

Related: Iowa Students Help School Bus Driver During Medical Episode
Related: Milwaukee School Bus Driver Saves Students from Burning Bus
Related: Florida School Bus Driver Saves Student from Choking on Candy
Related: Georgia School Bus Driver Named “Hidden Hero” After Saving Student’s Life

The post Iowa Student Saves Mom with Handwritten Note to School Bus Driver appeared first on School Transportation News.

A fourth-grade student from Hirayama Elementary School in Fresno, California, is being celebrated for his quick thinking and bravery after alerting staff to a fire that ultimately consumed his school bus, reported Your Central Valley news.

William Ruiz was one of four students riding the Clovis Unified School District bus home when he heard a strange noise coming from beneath the vehicle. “Well, I did hear like a steam, I heard like a pop,” Ruiz told local news reporters.

According to the article, smoke began rising from under the bus, and Ruiz didn’t hesitate to act. “So, I told the bus driver, ‘Smoke! Smoke!’” he said. “And the bus driver, he looked under there and said, ‘That’s not smoke, that’s fire.”

The driver immediately pulled and reportedly attempted to put out the flames with a fire extinguisher. When it failed, he quickly evacuated the children.

“We all [got] out, and it was like catching flames,” said Ruiz via the news report, adding that two student backpacks were burned. The fire, which reportedly started in the engine compartment, rapidly spread and engulfed the entire bus. Thankfully, no injuries were reported.

On Oct. 2, Ruiz was honored with a “Super Hira Award” from his school for “showing heroic qualities like kindness and bravery.”

His mother, Valerie Ramos, added via the article that she couldn’t be more proud. “We tell him to speak up all the time, whether it’s bullying or if you see something, always tell an adult,” she said. “It feels great. Good job, William.”

---

Related: Michigan Middle School Student to Receive NAPT Heroism Award
Related: Georgia School Bus Driver Named “Hidden Hero” After Saving Student’s Life
Related: Missouri Students Learn School Bus, Fire Safety During Back-to-School Bash
Related: Arkansas School District Thanks Driver for Quick Response During Bus Fire

The post California Student Honored for Quick Thinking During School Bus Fire appeared first on School Transportation News.

Introduced last month, the bipartisan Brake for Kids Act hopes to create a public service announcement on the dangers of illegally passing a stopped school bus.

Introduced on Sept. 16 by Sens. Todd Young of Indiana and Gary Peters of Michigan, it directs the “Secretary of Transportation to carry out a national public safety messaging campaign relating to the dangers of illegal passing of stopped school buses, and for other purposes.”

The PSA campaign would need to be released and distributed no later than one year after the enactment. It would include television advertisements on national broadcasts as well as radio, social media and other messaging.

Both senators have been involved in trying to prevent illegal school bus crossings, introducing the Stop for School Buses Act in 2019 and 2021.

“Every school year, far too many illegal school bus passings occur, which puts the lives of students at risk. Our bill will raise awareness about the dangers of passing a stopped school bus to help ensure that our kids make it to and from school safely,” said Young in a press release.

U.S. Reps. Rudy Yakym, Pete Stauber, Seth Moulton and Julia Brownley introduced companion legislation in the House.

“Parents need to know their kids are safe taking the bus to and from school,” Peters said in a release. “That’s why I’m proud to help lead this bipartisan, commonsense legislation to raise awareness of the dangers of illegally passing school buses and promote best practices for making our communities safer.”

Meanwhile, the National School Transportation Association released a statement applauding the introduction of the legislation. “The Brake for Kids Act is an essential step to help protect students and alleviate preventable tragedies,” said Patrick Dean, NSTA president. “Illegal school bus passings are a national crisis, and this legislation provides a platform for student transportation to raise awareness, change behavior, and prevent these all-too-frequent incidents.”

---

Related: Waymo Driverless Car Illegally Passes Stopped School Bus in Atlanta
Related: Wisconsin State Police, School Bus Association Promote School Bus Safety
Related: Michigan Association Films Illegal School Bus Passing PSA with NASCAR’s Preece
Related: New York Association Urges Motorists to Stop for School Buses at Startup
Related: NASDPTS Revises Illegal School Bus Passing Count After California Fixes Error

---

NSTA cited the 2025 National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services survey released this summer, noting that more than 114,000 school bus drivers across the U.S. reported 67,258 violations in a single day. While lower than in years past, NASDPTS extrapolated that motorists nationwide still illegally pass school buses tens of millions of times during the school year.

“NSTA believes that a nationwide safety campaign will close knowledge gaps, strengthen driver education, and save lives,” the press release adds.

The post Federal Bill Aims to Increase Awareness of Illegal School Bus Passing appeared first on School Transportation News.