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

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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

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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

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This article marks the inaugural installment in a new series highlighting pupil transportation practices around the world, drawing on Gray Ram Tactical’s 18-plus years of global experience in training, consulting and working directly with transportation professionals. By sharing insights from multiple countries, the goal is to compare systems, explore best practices and encourage continual improvement in student safety and operational excellence.

Having worked alongside pupil transportation teams on both sides of the Atlantic, I’m often asked a deceptively simple question: “How different can school transport really be?” The short answer: Very. The two systems are built on different legal duties, vehicle standards and road-user expectations—and those differences shape daily practice, staffing, budgets and risk.

In the United Kingdom, local authorities have a statutory duty to arrange free home-to-school travel for eligible children, including those beyond statutory walking distance, with no safe walking route, or with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

The SEND program ensures that children with learning difficulties, disabilities or medical needs receive tailored support so they can access education on an equal basis with peers. Local authorities assess needs through an education, health and care (EHC) plan and, when necessary, provide additional services such as specialized transportation, teaching support, or therapeutic interventions.

Guidance sets clear distance thresholds, such as over two miles for children under age eight and over three miles for those age eight and above. There are also extended rights for low-income families. In contrast, the U.S, has no national duty to transport all pupils. Policy and funding are largely state or local decisions. While most districts do provide service, the eligibility rules vary significantly from state to state.

One of the most visible differences lies in the vehicles themselves. In the U.S., purpose-built yellow school buses are a hallmark. These vehicles are designed to FMVSS standards, including compartmentalization seating and specialized mirrors and lighting. Meanwhile, in the U.K., there is a mixed fleet. Many routes rely on public-service buses, contracted coaches, or minibuses rather than a unique standardized yellow bus. Seatbelt rules also vary by vehicle type, creating a more diverse operational environment.

Road-user laws further distinguish the two systems. In the U.S., every state makes it illegal to pass a school bus with its stop arm extended and red lights flashing. This creates a protective zone around the bus during loading and unloading. In the United Kingdom, however, there is no general legal requirement for motorists to stop for a school bus. Drivers are expected to exercise caution near schools, but compliance depends more on public awareness and enforcement of school-crossing-patrol signals.

Driver qualifications, vetting and training also differ. U.S. drivers must hold a commercial driver’s license with passenger and school bus endorsements, complete federally mandated entry-level driver training (ELDT), and undergo drug and alcohol testing as well as background checks. In the U.K., drivers typically hold passenger carrying vehicle licenses and must maintain their driver certificate of professional competence (CPC) through 35 hours of periodic training every five years. Because the work involves children, enhanced disclosure and barring service safeguarding checks are also required.

Both systems also address the transportation needs of students with special educational needs and disabilities. In the U.S., under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, transportation may be provided as a related service, determined by the student’s IEP team. In the U.K., local authorities assess eligibility and make arrangements under SEND or EHC provisions. This includes clear entitlements for low-income families, although many councils face rising costs in this area.

Daily operations bring further contrasts. In the U.S., systems typically design tailored routes around neighborhoods and bell times. In the U.K., there is a heavier reliance on blending dedicated coaches with mainstream public transport. At the bus stop, U.S. systems rely heavily on stop-arm protections and crossing procedures, whereas the U.K. leans on school-crossing patrols, signage and infrastructure. Another distinction is that U.K. authorities are not obligated to provide mid-day transport between school sites.

Despite these differences, there are important similarities in safety culture. Both nations emphasize prevention and continuous improvement. In the U.S., FMVSS standards guide design, while in the U.K. licensing and seatbelt rules are central. Training and supervision also play a major role, with U.S. ELDT paralleled by U.K. Driver CPC. Safeguarding is another shared priority, with DBS checks in the U.K. and various forms of background vetting in the U.S.

Related: American Yellow School Bus Comes to South Korea
Related: European Association Says Student Transporters There Face Similar Challenges as the U.S.
Related: Routes Around the World: Quarterly Quotes From Anson Stewart

For leaders, there are clear lessons. Policy should be designed around legal duties. Stops must be engineered with safety in mind. Investing in people—through training, vetting and professional development—is essential. And perhaps most importantly, proactive planning for SEND transportation can help mitigate rising demand and costs.

The U.S. and U.K. start from different blueprints—one anchored in a dedicated, highly standardized school-bus ecosystem; the other in a statutory entitlement delivered through a mixed public and contracted network. Yet the goal is identical: every child, safe there and safe home. When we borrow best practices across the Atlantic—on stop design, driver development, safeguarding, and SEND planning—we move measurably closer to that goal.

Coming next in this series: A look at pupil transportation in India.

Bret E. Brooks is the chief operating officer for Gray Ram Tactical, LLC, a Missouri-based international training and consulting firm specializing in transportation safety and security issues. Bret is the author of several books and articles. He is also a keynote speaker and presents around the world. He can be reached directly at bretbrooks@grayramtacticaltraining.com.

The post What Differs Between Pupil Transportation in the U.S. and the U.K.? appeared first on School Transportation News.

A driverless car operated by Waymo is under scrutiny after it was caught on video illegally passing a stopped school bus that was letting children off in Atlanta, reported WBIR News.

The incident occurred Monday afternoon and was recorded by a woman who witnessed the incident. Georgia state Rep. Clint Crowe said he was shocked after seeing the footage.

“I’m a big fan of new technologies and emerging technologies, and I think driverless cars are going to become more common,” Crowe said. “But we have to think about how they’re going to comply with the law.”

According to the news report, Crowe co-sponsored Addy’s Law in 2024, which was named after 8-year-old Addy Pierce. Pierce was killed in Henry County after being hit while crossing the street to get to her school bus. The law increased penalties for illegally passing a stopped school bus, with fines up to $1,000 and possible jail time.

Crowe emphasized that these laws also apply to autonomous vehicles.

“The majority of our traffic laws come with penalties like fines or driver’s license suspension,” he explained via the article. “These cars don’t have drivers or licenses, so we really have to rethink who is responsible. Who’s in control of the vehicle? Who is the operator?”

Crowe said he believes automobile manufacturers should face stronger consequences when their autonomous vehicles break the law, saying the current $1,000 fine isn’t enough. Other lawmakers agree.

“Driverless cars should be stopped until it can be figured out,” said State Sen. Rick Williams, one of the authors of Addy’s Law. “We should not have this on the road. It’s too dangerous for our children” he said via the article.

Williams said he plans to introduce new legislation that would increase penalties on driverless car companies when their vehicles violate traffic laws. Fortunately, no one was injured during the incident.

Waymo said in a statement via the article that “the trust and safety of the communities we serve is our top priority. We continuously refine our system’s performance to navigate complex scenarios and are looking into this further.”

Related: (STN Podcast E267) I Believe in This: Illegal Passing Drops & Michigan Pupil Transportation Leader Speaks
Related: Georgia Gov Signs Law Following Fatal Illegal Passing Incident
Related: Addy’s Law in Georgia, Targets Illegal Passers of School Buses
Related: Combatting Illegal Passing with Awareness, Technology

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A Kansas transportation director and two behavioral experts discussed how collaborative, personalized solutions help reduce behavior incidents and support students on the school bus while empowering drivers and monitors.

“My favorite part of student transportation is the students,” declared Lisa Riveros, director of transportation for Wichita Public Schools in Kansas, during the Thursday webinar sponsored by First Student. The district has over 16,000 student riders, 3,000 of whom have special needs. Riveros said partnering with First Student empowers her 600 drivers and monitors to work with students. Riveros confirmed that these techniques have reduced severe behavior incidents.

She recounted the story of a young student who racked up numerous behavior incidents within days, confounding transportation staff. Finally, they discovered that he needed attention and solved the issue by assigning him a teacher to ride with.

The district’s partnership with First Serves by First Student manifests itself in practical ways. School bus drivers will watch videos of their bus rides and discuss what could be improved. Sunglasses and noise-canceling headphones are provided to sensitive students. Storing and sharing notes across schools, buses and drivers reveals what works and what doesn’t. “About Me” forms are prepped with student input and tell staff what their current fixation is. Information in referral forms is available to administration and drivers.

“I feel that we can transport any student in a way that is safe and makes them ready for school,” Riveros stated.

“Positive results are driven by customized solutions.”

-Laura Greene-Halley, Senior Director of Student Services, First Student

Laura Greene-Halley, senior director of student services for transportation contractor First Student, reviewed challenges including increasing incidents of disruptive student behavior on buses, increasing frustration in drivers and monitors, one out of every six students having individual education programs calling for transportation as a related service, ineffective traditional paper referral processes, and the disproportionate educational impact on students with disabilities.

Greene-Halley stressed the importance of student support systems in bringing together educators, school bus staff and parents for the best interest of the student.

Dr. Susan King, executive director of CLP Consulting Group and a member of the FirstServes advisory board, reviewed the need for placing students in the least restrictive environment, which could mean a yellow bus, van or car with attendants available as needed.

“This is fluid – a student doesn’t have to be assigned to one vehicle forever,” King said. “When they have the right supports and the behavior gets under control, we can move them back to their same-age peer group and try to help foster their social and emotional development.”

“We’re quick to make it more restrictive as a response to behavior,” Greene-Halley agreed. “We really have a duty to these students to treat transportation the same as education, and that’s why the partnership becomes so important.”

“I feel that we can transport any student in a way that is safe and makes them ready for school.”

-Lisa Riveros, director of transportation, Wichita Public Schools (Kansas)

“Our students respond to consistency,” said King. She shared how First Student’s Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) uses an inverted triangle to illustrate how more restrictive supports should be used for increasingly smaller groups of students.

Tier 1, the largest, includes interventions that are successful for most students, like priority seating and positive behavior intervention support (PBIS). Medium-sized Tier 2 includes Tier 1 interventions plus mild individualized interventions, like check-in and check-outs, or an informative “About Me” form. Tier 3, the smallest, includes both Tier 1 and Tier 2 interventions plus collaborative, specialized, intentional behavior intervention plans for the bus.

“They’re a gen-ed student first and then we put on supports as needed,” Riveros explained.

Training is only 15 percent effective when provided alone, Greene-Halley said. She advised additionally utilizing the First Serves offering, which creates a continuum of expectations and support so that pupil transporters and classroom educators are on the same page and can provide consistent service for students. This does not involve sharing Individualized Education Plan (IEP) information, she added, but rather notes such as a student’s preference for a favorite comforting blanket or an aversion to sitting by the stop arm. Technology speeds this whole process up and quickly gets pertinent information to necessary staff.

Consequently, she said, students arrive at school calmer and ready to learn, drivers and monitors feel empowered and supported, and leadership is better equipped to provide behavior-based support. Schools experience fewer referrals, stronger community ties and a reduced need for crisis support personnel.

“Our students respond to consistency.”

-Dr. Susan King, CLP Consulting Group

“It’s a matter of shifting the paradigm and making some changes up front so that there’s less having to react to things in the long run,” Greene-Halley stated. She shared that the First Serves system has won a T-Mobile Innovation Award and been recognized at educator conferences.

“Positive results are driven by customized solutions,” she said. “We all have the kids at the center of our heart.”

She confirmed that First Serves is available for districts that manage their own transportation in-house.

A key piece of driver coaching, Greene-Halley explained, is getting them to see that challenging student behavior is a form of their communication rather than simply something bad happening to the driver.

“Behavior is behavior is behavior,” she remarked, adding that MTSS works on general education buses as well. King noted that many gen ed students still have significant mental health issues and would benefit from support.

Watch the webinar on demand. 

Transportation professionals nationwide are invited to attend the Transporting Students with Disabilities & Special Needs Conference and Trade Show from Nov. 6—11, 2025 at the Embassy Suites Dallas-Frisco in Texas. Immerse yourself in the latest trends in special needs transportation training, products, and services. Connect with like-minded individuals, attend educational sessions and workshops, and explore product demonstrations. Learn more and register at tsdconference.com.

The post Webinar Gives Tips to Improve Student Behavior, Bus Driver Experience appeared first on School Transportation News.

A 15-year-old girl narrowly escaped an attempted abduction while waiting for her school bus, Cleaveland 19 News.

Strongsville Police Department said via the article that officers were dispatched to Fair Road around 6:40 a.m. on Sept. 5, after the teen reported being approached and grabbed by an unknown man. Authorities say the girl managed to break free and ran back into her home to alert her family, who then contacted police.

During an on-scene investigation, officers located a suspect at a nearby residence approximately a quarter mile from the reported incident. The man, identified as Dominic Anthony Sacco, 27, was taken into custody after being positively identified by the teen.

Sacco was reportedly held at the Strongsville Police Department facing charges of abduction. During his arraignment on Sept. 8, a judge set his bond at $1 million.

If Sacco were to post bond, he has been reportedly ordered to wear a GPS monitor and remain under home detention. Additionally, a temporary protection order has been issued, barring him from coming within 1,000 feet of the victim.

Strongsville police confirmed via the news article that Sacco is also a person of interest in two similar cases under active investigation. They are urging anyone with additional information to come forward as the investigation continues.

Related: Massachusetts School Bus Driver Accused of Kidnapping Children
Related: Three Virginia Children Found Safe After Reported Kidnapping
Related: Florida Man Arrested for “Exposing” Himself to Kids on School Bus
Related: Florida School Bus Attendant Arrested for Inappropriate Behavior with Young Girls

The post Ohio Teen Escapes Abduction Attempt While Waiting for School Bus; Suspect in Custody appeared first on School Transportation News.

First Student will equip its 46,000 school buses across North America with Samsara’s AI-powered technology platform — video-based safety, telematics, commercial navigation, door monitors, and student ridership insights — to help predict risk, prevent incidents and ensure student well-being.

The announcement Tuesday comes as part of a new partnership between the two companies. Samsara’s technology will integrate into First Student’s Halo platform that rolled out earlier this year. The companies said school districts will have a unified system that combines telematics, video-based safety and monitoring, fleet tracking and ridership insights.

“By leveraging real-time data collected from Samsara’s Connected Operations Platform, First Student will build the most advanced safety and performance ecosystem in the student transportation industry,” a press release states, noting that the companies aim to set a new standard for how drivers, districts, families and students experience pupil transportation.

“This partnership between two industry leaders enables us to leverage advanced technology to deliver safer, smarter, and more connected student transportation,” said John Kenning, CEO and president of First Student in a statement. “By integrating Samsara’s AI insights into HALO, we are living out our value of setting the highest standards and redefining what student transportation can be. With Samsara’s AI capabilities, predictive analytics, and real-time safety monitoring, we are taking HALO to the next level, anticipating risks, preventing incidents, enhancing driver satisfaction, and advancing our mission to provide every student with the best possible transportation experience so they arrive at school ready to achieve their full potential.”

Related: Q&A: Cybersecurity in Student Transportation: Why It Matters, Where It’s Headed
Related: September 2025
Related: WATCH: First Student at ACT Expo
Related: Under the Hood: School Bus Smart Telematics Driving Fleet Improvements

Samsara said it AI-powered platform will further unlock key safety features in HALO across all vehicles, including the use of AI cameras with in-cab alerts; collision avoidance and hazard detection alerts for drivers and pedestrians; and predictive safety analytics that combine data from vehicle sensors and AI cameras to generate insights. It also integrates post-trip insights, giving supervisors visibility into coachable driver trends. Samsara said its models learn from billions of minutes of video footage to help identify and address risks proactively.

“We are proud to partner with First Student, which operates at an unmatched scale, serving millions of students daily across North America,” said Sanjit Biswas, CEO and co-founder of Samsara in a press release. “By integrating our AI-powered platform with First Student’s HALO, we are taking innovation to the next level to create a safer, more efficient experience. Together, we’re bringing students the best possible transportation experience, powered by data-driven insights.”

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How can schools and transportation providers work together to create safer, more supportive rides for students with disabilities?

In this webinar, leaders from Wichita Public Schools and First Student will share how they built a strong partnership to better support student needs on the bus. Together, they implemented Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) within transportation to provide the same consistency and care on the bus as in the classroom.

The panel will highlight the innovative transportation model they developed, which combines training, coaching, communication, and commitment to improve the student experience. Participants will leave with practical strategies to strengthen collaboration in their own districts.

Brought to you by First Student

REGISTER BELOW:

Presenters

Laura Greene-Halley
Senior Director, Student Services
First Student

Laura Greene-Halley is a critical member of First Student’s safety leadership and FirstServes teams. In her current role as Senior Director of Safety Performance and Improvement, Greene-Halley develops and implements ground-breaking innovation, safety strategies, and sustainable plans for over 440 locations across the United States and Canada. She has presented internationally to safety leadership coaches on becoming influential advocates for safety. As a 2015 National School Transportation Association Golden Merit Award winner, Greene-Halley has been an industry-recognized driving force in student transportation for over 30 years. She has served two consecutive three-year terms on the Advisory Board for School Bus Driver Instructor/Master Instructor with the New York State Education Department (NYSED). She also holds numerous professional certifications including NYSED Master Instructor and Safety Leadership Instructor and Coach certified by Aubrey Daniels International and is Certified in Special Needs Transportation by NAPT. Greene-Halley is an intentional role model, motivating others to become safety leaders and inspiring them to embrace safety as their core operating value. She is an enthusiastic professional who gains personal fulfillment from ensuring the safety of our students, employees, and the general public in our partner communities.

Dr. Susan King
Executive Director
CLP – Consulting Group

Dr. Susan King is an experienced special educator, researcher, and professor based in the Washington, D.C area. Prior to obtaining her doctoral degree, Dr. King was a special educator in one of the largest school districts in the Washington, D.C. area. She has been an assistant professor at Juniata College and faculty member at The George Washington University. Her expertise is in assessment, teacher training, behavior management and working with families of students with special needs. Recently she completed post-doctoral education at Harvard University with a focus on “Making Change.” Dr. King has consulted with public and private schools, served as an expert witness in legal cases, and conducted independent educational evaluations. She has served as the Chair of The National Advisory Committee for the HEATH Resource Center, National Clearing House on Post-Secondary Education for Individuals with Disabilities (Washington, D.C.). Currently Dr. King serves as a member of the FirstServes National Advisory Board (Cincinnati, Ohio) and the Committee of Disability Awareness (Baltimore Washington). Additionally, she is on the Harvard Business Review Advisory Council, an opt-in research community of business professionals.

Lisa Riveros
Director of Transportation
Wichita Public Schools (Wichita, Kansas)

Since 2018, Lisa Riveros has served as the Director of Transportation for Wichita Public Schools, where she has been a dedicated advocate for Special Education students. Overseeing a $30 million transportation budget and managing 16,000 daily bus riders across 2,000 routes, Riveros has worked tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of the district’s 3,000 special needs students who require transportation as a related service on their IEPs. Her leadership has driven the implementation of key initiatives, like restorative practices, specialized driver training, and an onboard behavior communication system to better support students. Ms. Riveros collaborates closely with IEP teams to address individual student needs and ensure transportation services align with their educational plans. Drawing from her background as a former teacher, assistant principal, and instructional coach, she equips bus drivers with strategies to provide a safe and emotionally supportive environment for students with special needs. Her commitment to training has empowered over 600 drivers and monitors to create positive experiences for students, ensuring they feel secure and cared for during their journey. Passionate about equity in education, Riveros is dedicated to ensuring students with special needs have reliable access to essential resources. Her focus on removing transportation barriers reflects her belief that every student deserves the opportunity to succeed.

The post (Free Webinar) Improve Student Experience with Student Services on the Bus appeared first on School Transportation News.

Dive into school bus safety, technology and data security in the new STN September issue. We also analyze a Canadian study on electric bus equity and the school bus industry’s lobbying efforts in the U.S.

Lisa Navarra, certified child behavior specialist, author and upcoming TSD Conference keynote speaker, discusses bringing together education and transportation personnel to support good behavior in student bus riders with special needs.

Read more about special needs.

This episode is brought to you by Transfinder.

Message from School-Radio.

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 E273) Supportive, not Punitive: Collaborating for Improved Student Rider Behavior appeared first on School Transportation News.

An elementary-age student was arrested after allegedly bringing a loaded gun onto a school bus and showing it to other children, reported WFLA 8.

The incident reportedly occurred Monday morning, while the bus was on route to an elementary school. Fellow students alerted the school bus driver after noticing the child displaying the weapon. Police were called and responded to the scene immediately.

Investigators say the student admitted to taking the firearm from a relative’s “secured room” and bringing it on board to show other students. The gun was confirmed to be loaded. No injuries were reported.

The child was reportedly taken into custody and now faces several serious charges, including possession of a firearm on school property, armed burglary, grand theft of a firearm, carrying a concealed firearm, and disruption of a school function.

“This incident shows why staying vigilant and reporting concerns quickly is critical,” Ocala police said via the article. “Our children’s safety is our top priority. We will remain committed to supporting our schools and community while we pursue justice.”

The gun was safely recovered, and authorities are continuing to investigate. Due to the child’s age, their identity has not been released.

Related: South Carolina Man Arrested for Allegedly Pointing Gun at School Bus
Related: North Carolina Student in Custody for Bringing Gun on School Bus
Related: Florida Man Arrested After Boarding School Bus, Threatening Driver
Related: Round Up: Weapons On, Around School Buses

The post 9-Year-Old Arrested for Bringing Loaded Gun onto Florida School Bus appeared first on School Transportation News.

A 19-year-old man has been arrested after authorities say he illegally passed a stopped school bus and struck a child in a St. Tammany Parish neighborhood, reported Fox 8.

The incident reportedly occurred Aug. 25 in the Tall Timbers subdivision of Mandeville, Louisiana, located on the northern bank of Lake Pontchartrain. The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office said via the article the school bus was stopped with its lights flashing and stop sign extended as children were being dropped off.

As one child crossed the street, a pickup truck driver allegedly ignored the stopped bus and struck the girl. She suffered minor injuries to her arm, authorities said.

Following a public appeal for help identifying the driver, the Sheriff’s office noted via the news report it received several tips after releasing surveillance images of the truck on social media. On Aug. 26, deputies arrested Mario Avila, 19, in connection with the incident.

According to the news report, Avila was booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center on multiple charges, including hit-and-run, reckless operation of a motor vehicle, driving under suspension with a prior DWI, and unlawfully overtaking a stopped school bus.

Sheriff Randy Smith reportedly issued a warning to motorists, emphasizing the dangers of passing school buses when children are present.

“This is a reminder to all drivers, stop means stop,” Smith said. “Passing a stopped school bus is not only illegal, it puts children’s lives at risk.” The child involved in the incident is expected to make a full recovery.

Related: Teen Hospitalized After Hit-and-Run Crash in South Las Vegas, Motorist Faces Felony Charge
Related: West Virginia School Bus Driver Faces Sentence After DUI Crash
Related: 9-Year-old Hit, Killed by School Bus in Canada
Related: Pennsylvania Man Admits to Drinking After Fleeing Crash While Driving School Van with Students

The post Louisiana Child Hit by Truck, 19-Year-Old Driver Arrested appeared first on School Transportation News.

DENVER, Colo. — EverDriven, the nation’s leader in alternative student transportation, today announced the launch of its 360-degree Student Experience, an advancement in real-time visibility and safety for every ride. Purpose-built to support students with diverse needs, the solution combines advanced monitoring technology with human-led care to deliver unmatched transparency, proactive risk mitigation, and student-centered consistency.

“At EverDriven, we are dedicated to setting the bar for safety in student transportation. The 360-degree Student Experience turns that commitment into visibility, accountability, and consistent, calm rides—one student, one trip at a time.This is the standard we uphold daily, and an example of how we’re driving best practices across the industry,” said Mitch Bowling, Chief Executive Officer at EverDriven.

Introducing the 360-degree Student Experience

This solution ensures every ride is safe, transparent, and tailored to the students who rely on it.

Key Features and Capabilities:

Proactive Safety Monitoring: Dual-facing AI cameras and onboard and app-enabled sensors track 18 safety data points, proactively identifying risky behaviors and vehicle conditions before they escalate. Unsafe drivers are removed from service if thresholds are crossed;

Real-Time Ride Visibility: Districts and caregivers can access live trip status, offering peace of mind at every step of the journey;

Unparalleled Safety Standards: Drivers complete pre-service drug testing, random drug testing, and extensive background checking including sex offender registry screening, and motor vehicle record reviews. Ongoing training in defensive driving and sensitivity practices also ensure safe, supportive transportation for all students.

The solution builds on EverDriven’s proven foundation of safety and reliability and adds deeper insights and smarter safeguards. With more than 2 million trips completed annually across 36 states and a 99.99 percent accident-free record, 360-degree Student Experience reinforces EverDriven’s commitment to safe, student-centered transportation.

To learn more about bringing the 360-degree Student Experience to your district, visit everdriven.com.

About EverDriven:
EverDriven delivers modern student-centered transportation that’s safe, consistent, and built for those who need it most. EverDriven specializes in transporting students across a wide range of needs — from everyday support to the most complex circumstances — including students with disabilities, students experiencing housing instability, and other high-need populations. Serving more than 700 districts across 36 states, the company completed over 2 million trips last year, 99.99% of them accident-free with 100% safety compliance. EverDriven’s deeply human, fully compliant, and AI-powered approach helps districts get students on the road in hours, not days, while maintaining consistent, high-trust rides that complement traditional yellow bus fleets. For more information, visit everdriven.com.

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A disturbing incident on an Orleans Parish school bus in Louisiana has left a longtime school bus monitor hospitalized with multiple injuries after she was allegedly attacked by a high school student and the student’s mother, reported News Channel 10.

The incident reportedly occurred Aug. 21 and was caught on video, involving a McDonogh 35 High School student and her mother physically assaulting school bus monitor Tamika Jackson. The footage aired by News Channel 10 indicates the mother striking Jackson and then her daughter joining the violent altercation.

Jackson’s husband, Johnny Jackson told reporters his wife was transported to the emergency room with severe injuries, including bite marks on her face and thumbs, scratches and a deep gash across her face.

“They pulled her hair out. They bit her in her face, on her lips, on her thumbs,” he said.

Images shown by News Channel 10 support his descriptions of the injuries.

According to the article, Johnny Jackson said the confrontation began after his wife instructed the student not to sit in the last two rows of the bus, an area she suspected students had been using inappropriately, potentially to perform lewd acts. The student, who was not identified in this writing, allegedly called her mother, who then boarded the bus at confronted Jackson, resulting in the violent assault.

Despite her injuries and being on duty at the time, Jackson was reportedly issued a Municipal Court summons by the New Orleans Police Department for disturbing the peace.

Her husband expressed outrage, saying, “It’s insane knowing my wife was at work when this happened, and yet she’s being treated like she was part of a fight.”

NOPD has not filed a police report at this time, citing a lack of video evidence. Officers reportedly told the family they are treating the matter as a “routine fight” until the footage is reviewed.

In response to the incident, InspireNOLA Charter Schools, which oversees McDonogh 35, stated it is conducting an active investigation and emphasized that the safety of students and staff is a top priority. Community members and staff have called for a thorough investigation and accountability following the attack.

Related: South Carolina Parent Runs School Bus Off Road After Alleged Child Assault
Related: Virginia School Bus Aide Arrested for Alleged Assault
Related: Arizona School Bus Driver Assaulted, Student’s Mother Charged
Related: Texas Student Accused of Assaulting Officers and Attemping to Start School Bus

The post School Bus Monitor Hospitalized After Violent Attack by Student, Parent appeared first on School Transportation News.

A 13-year-old boy is recovering in the hospital with serious injuries after being struck by a car in a hit-and-run crash moments after stepping off a school bus in the south Las Vegas Valley, reported Fox 5.

The incident happened Aug. 20 just before 4:30 p.m. Las Vegas Metro Police said the article that the teen had just exited a school bus and was crossing the street when he was hit by a vehicle driven by 27-year-old Yarla Valeriano-Perez.

Police added Valeriano-Perez initially fled the scene, abandoning her vehicle nearby. She later returned and cooperated with investigators. Impairment was not believed to be a factor in the crash.

Authorities reportedly confirmed that the school bus had its lights flashing at the time, signaling that children were being dropped off. Witnesses reported seeing the teen thrown approximately eight feet into the air upon impact.

Valeriano-Perez was reportedly taken into custody and now faces multiple charges, including felony hit-and-run and reckless driving, along with a misdemeanor count for illegally passing a school bus displaying active signals.

According to the news report, she appeared in court last Thursday, where prosecutors emphasized the severity of the incident, noting that she failed to stop despite visible school bus warnings. Her defense attorneys asked the court for leniency as she has no prior criminal record.

The judge reportedly set bail at $300,000 with a condition that she be prohibited from driving. Valeriano-Perez was scheduled to appear in court again on Tuesday.

The teen’s current condition has not been publicly disclosed, but police described his injuries as “substantial.” The investigation is ongoing.

Related: 9-Year-old Hit, Killed by School Bus in Canada
Related: Missouri Child Hit by Pickup Truck While Getting Off School Bus
Related: 5-Year-Old Hit by Car While Running to Catch School Bus in Utah
Related: Student Hit, Killed at Wisconsin School Bus Stop

The post Teen Hospitalized After Hit-and-Run Crash in South Las Vegas, Motorist Faces Felony Charge appeared first on School Transportation News.

CINCINNATI, Ohio – First Student, the company setting the standard for innovation in school transportation, has been selected by Seneca Valley School District (SVSD) in Pennsylvania to provide student transportation services, beginning in the 2025-2026 school year. Backed by a brand-new fleet and advanced technology designed to elevate the ride experience for students and families, First Student will bring nearly 150 new buses to SVSD. All buses will be equipped with First Student’s award-winning HALO technology platform. HALO delivers real-time visibility, data-driven safety features, and streamlined communication tools that modernize school transportation to provide the best student transportation experience.

First Student is the industry leader in safety, utilizing on-vehicle technology that includes driver tablets, AI cameras, video systems, and a child check system. Guardians and caregivers of SVSD children will have access to First Student’s comprehensive transportation technology suite, which includes real-time tracking via the FirstView app. This feature provides families and district staff with live GPS updates, offering greater peace of mind and improved planning. Additionally, through performance monitoring and feedback channels, families will have an easy way to submit comments or concerns if needed.

“At First Student, we take great pride in delivering the best possible transportation experience for every student we serve,” said John Kenning, President and CEO of First Student. “For Seneca Valley families, that means combining a brand-new fleet with technology that keeps parents connected and informed. With the FirstView app, families can track their child’s bus in real time, creating greater transparency and peace of mind while ensuring every ride is safe, reliable, and welcoming.”

HALO’s technology also empowers school districts with an advanced driver navigation system for route optimization and timely arrivals, as well as student behavior monitoring tools that support communication between drivers and district staff.

“Seneca Valley is committed to providing the safest and most reliable transportation possible for our students,” said Dr. Tracy Vitale, Superintendent of Schools. “We welcome this new partnership with First Student and appreciate the expertise and resources they bring to support our transportation program.”

“Our partnership with Seneca Valley School District reflects a growing shift toward modern, connected, and student-centered transportation,” said Brian Fitzgerald, Senior Vice President, Mid-Atlantic Region at First Student. “Safety, service, and community are at the core of everything we do. We’re proud to bring our technology and expertise to support this outstanding school community.”

First Student is actively recruiting qualified drivers and offering competitive pay, paid instruction, and industry-leading training. This includes the First Serves program, which equips drivers with clinically backed communication tools and training to support students with disabilities, ensuring an inclusive and welcoming ride for every learner.

About First Student:
First Student is reimagining the school bus experience for 5.5+ million students across North America every single day. As the undisputed leader in K-12 transportation, the company is on pace to complete 1 billion student rides during the 2025-26 school year, delivering not just students, but confidence, reliability, and peace of mind to families and school districts alike. Backed by a workforce of highly trained drivers and an industry-leading fleet of 46,000+ vehicles, including electric buses, First Student is a mission-driven partner in education. Recently named to the Inc. 5000 list of America’s fastest-growing privately held companies, First Student offers cutting-edge services including special needs transportation, AI route optimization, fleet electrification, vehicle maintenance services, and charter services. First Student’s impact extends beyond logistics: every ride is designed to be a safe and supportive space where students can start their day with a great experience. With innovation at our core, First Student is driving the future of student transportation one ride at a time.

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A Nashville family is raising serious concerns after a 5-year-old kindergartner with autism was mistakenly placed on a school bus and then left wandering alone for nearly an hour on Monday afternoon, reported WSMV 4.

Zontrail Brinson, a nonverbal student at Ida B. Wells Elementary School, was supposed to be picked up by a parent at school dismissal. However, school officials said there was a “tagging error,” and Brinson was placed on a school bus then dropped off several blocks away, alone and unsupervised.

“It’s scary. I wouldn’t want to be alone by myself, especially being nonverbal,” said Rosalind Derrick, Brinson’s grandmother.

She explained that the family only learned of the incident when Brinson’s mother arrived at the school to pick him up and was told he wasn’t there.

Derrick told local news reporters that Brinson was dropped off at the intersection of 7th Street and Howerton, near Meigs Middle School, and began walking down the sidewalk. She said the school bus driver briefly spoke to the child but received no response and allowed him to exit the bus.

“When you didn’t see an adult, you should have just called the school or taken him back to the school,” she advised.

Brinson was eventually located by a police officer at a nearby playground and safely reunited with his family. While thankful unharmed, Derrick said the ordeal is every parent and guardian’s nightmare.

“I’m a praying grandmother. I was just praying and trusting that he would be found and everything would be okay,” she said.

Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) acknowledged the incident and apologized.

“We deeply regret the distress this caused the family and are grateful the student was found safe,” said Sean Braisted, a district spokesperson. “As soon as the school was notified, staff and a school resource officer responded quickly and located the student at a park near his home. The school and transportation teams are reviewing the incident and reinforcing dismissal protocols to help ensure this does not happen again.”

Braisted clarified that as part of MNPS’s onboarding process, all kindergarten students zoned for school bus service receive a transportation tag. In this case, a teacher mistakenly attached a bus tag to Brinson’s backpack, which led to him being placed on a school bus despite the family’s plan for him to be picked up.

Related: California Student Left Alone in Hot School Bus
Related: Georgia Woman Outraged After Daughter Kicked Off School Bus During Rainstorm
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

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DENVER, Colo. – EverDriven, the nation’s leader in Alternative Student Transportation, continues to gain momentum as it welcomes two seasoned executives to its C-suite: Megan Von Wald as Chief Operations Officer and Phil Graves as Chief Financial Officer.

Focused on enhancing human-centered service and operational efficiency, Von Wald will lead nationwide operations and support the drivers and local teams who serve as the backbone of the company’s mission. Graves will oversee financial strategy and growth planning to support EverDriven’s expanding footprint. The company also announced the appointments of Alan Fliegelman as Vice President of Product and Jenn Cotter as Vice President of Revenue Operations, further strengthening its leadership bench on its quest to redefine the modern student transportation experience.

“At EverDriven, we’re building a future-ready transportation model—and that starts with the right people,” said Mitch Bowling, CEO of EverDriven. “These leaders bring deep operational and financial expertise that will allow us to scale responsibly, accelerate innovation, and keep safety and equity at the center of every decision.”

With 98% of school districts actively modernizing their transportation systems, according to EverDriven’s recently released Future of Modern Student Transportation and Safety Report, the need for human-led, tech-enabled solutions continues to accelerate. The company’s new executive hires in operations and finance come on the heels of earlier appointments this year of Chief Product & Technology Officer Mon-Chaio Lo and Chief Marketing Officer Courtney Pallotta, further aligning leadership across key functions to meet the rising demand for modern student transportation solutions.

Von Wald joins EverDriven with more than a decade of experience leading customer-centric operations across hospitality, financial services, and technology. With a career rooted in building meaningful operations, Von Wald brings a deep understanding of how to empower frontline personnel and ensure consistent and safe service across diverse communities. She previously held leadership roles at Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy and Galvanize Inc., where she developed global customer service strategies and oversaw the successful implementation of multi-site, technology-enabled operations.

“EverDriven is at an incredible inflection point,” said Von Wald. “I’m excited to help bring a modern approach to service—one that honors the human connection while leveraging technology to revolutionize how we support students, school districts, and caregivers. This work is deeply personal, and I’m proud to be part of a company that’s making a meaningful difference every day.”

Graves brings an extensive background in finance, strategy, and mission-driven business. His experience overseeing growth across values-based organizations positions him to guide EverDriven’s financial evolution while staying true to its commitment to people and communities. As a CPA and CFA, he has provided financial advisory services to large and mid-sized businesses and held leadership roles at socially responsible companies, including Patagonia, where he helped guide the company through transformative growth.

“EverDriven has a clear opportunity to scale both its impact and its business,” said Graves. “Building the financial infrastructure to support that growth while staying aligned with our mission is key. The stronger our financial foundation, the more effectively we can expand access to education and deliver long-term value to the communities we serve.”

Fliegelman brings deep experience in product strategy and delivery across high-growth tech environments, while Cotter adds proven expertise in aligning revenue operations to drive performance and efficiency. Their appointments reflect the company’s continued investment in building a leadership team equipped to drive innovation, efficiency, and impact at scale.

To learn more about EverDriven’s growing leadership team, visit https://www.everdriven.com/about/.

About EverDriven:
EverDriven delivers modern student-centered transportation that’s safe, consistent, and built for those who need it most. EverDriven specializes in transporting students across a wide range of needs — from everyday support to the most complex circumstances — including students with disabilities, students experiencing housing instability, and other high-need populations.​ Serving more than 700 districts across 36 states, the company completed over 2 million trips last year, 99.99% of them accident-free with 100% safety compliance. EverDriven’s deeply human, fully compliant, and AI-powered approach helps districts get students on the road in hours, not days, while maintaining consistent, high-trust rides that complement traditional yellow bus fleets. For more information, visit everdriven.com.

The post EverDriven Expands Executive Leadership Team to Fuel Growth in Human-Led, Tech-Enabled Student Transportation appeared first on School Transportation News.

A student was stabbed shortly after exiting a school bus last week in Rossville, Maryland, reported Patch News.

According to the news report, Overlea High School administrators informed summer school families that the incident involved a student who had just gotten off bus number 183 on July 24 when the incident occurred.

Police responded to reports of a knife assault near the intersection of Franklin Square Drive and King Avenue. The victim, who was not identified at this writing, was transported to a hospital and is expected to recover.

Authorities have reportedly arrested a minor in connection with the stabbing. The suspect faces charges of first- and second-degree assault and was placed in the care of the Department of Juvenile Services.

In a message to families, Overlea leaders emphasized that student safety remains their highest priority and encouraged parents to reach out with any concerns.

Related: Pennsylvania Teen Charged as Adult for Stabbing Student on Bus
Related: Washington School Bus Driver Stabbed to Death with Students on Board
Related: Florida Students Hit, Two Killed During School Bus Stop Walks
Related: Georgia Middle School Student Faces Charges for Weapon on School Bus

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A teen girl was struck by a school bus in Bergen County, New Jersey, reported ABC 7.

The incident reportedly occurred last Wednesday at an intersection just before 9 a.m.

According to the news report, the driver of the school bus operated by First Student, Inc., remained on the scene after the crash and cooperated with the investigation.

Police stated child was seriously injured and taken by medevac helicopter to an area hospital. It was unclear at this report how the incident took place. Authorities said the investigation is ongoing, but a preliminary information indicated it not appear a crime occurred.

Related: Massachusetts Student Struck, Killed by School Bus
Related: Louisiana Student Struck and Killed by School Bus
Related: 8-Year-Old Struck, Killed by Vehicle After Exiting School Bus in Texas
Related: Texas Student Struck and Killed by School Bus

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