The parents of an eighth-grade girl killed in the Tennessee school bus crash last month filed a $5-million wrongful death lawsuit alleging distraction and recklessness on the part of the driver and negligence and lack of oversight on the part of the Clarksville-Montgomery County School System.
Zoe Davis was 13 and a student at Kenwood Middle School when she died in the March 27 collision. Her classmate Arianna Peterson, 13, also died.
The lawsuit filed April 2 calls for a jury trial and seeks the maximum dollar amount allowed but not to exceed $5 million plus court costs.
Tennessee tort law generally caps the amount a school district can be held liable for at $700,000 for bodily injury or death of all persons in any one accident or $300,000 for any one person. School district employees are immune from lawsuits including those involving negligent operation of motor vehicles, unless proven that the employee failed “to exercise or perform a discretionary function, whether or not the discretion is abused.”
The Davis family’s lawsuit names school bus driver Sabrina Ducksworth. The lawsuit claims she failed to follow her training and “acted with less than and/or failed to act with ordinary and reasonable care in the operation of the school bus.”
The filing also claims Ducksworth operated her school bus while fatigued or distracted and failed to exercise due care, obey traffic laws and keep in the proper lane.
Investigation Continues Amid Lawsuit
The Tennessee Highway Patrol and the National Transportation Safety Board continue to investigate. NTSB said on its website a preliminary report is expected by the end of this month. Duckworth reportedly remains hospitalized following several surgeries. School Transportation News learned Duckworth broke both of her legs and suffered internal injuries.
Ducksworth’s family told local reporters she may have suffered a stroke when the school bus veered across a double yellow line, into the oncoming lane and collided nearly head-on with a Tennessee Department of Transportation dump truck. A local news report also indicates a review of Duckworth’s personnel file shows a current prescription for blood pressure medication. She had driven for Clarksville-Montgomery County School System since July 2021.
The Davis family’s lawsuit also claims the school district did not perform an adequate pre-employment inquiry into Ducksworth’s fitness for employment as a school bus driver and that the hiring practices “fell below the applicable standard of care.” The lawsuit also alleges the school district failed to adequately train or supervise Ducksworth.
Training school bus drivers to respond to inclement weather emergencies is a crucial part of student transportation safety training, but sometimes even the best training can’t fully prepare for the harsh reality of a real-life emergency situation.
Transportation Supervisor Kelly Bennett at Three Rivers Community Schools in Michigan confirmed for School Transportation News that this is how her team of bus drivers felt when a tornado suddenly appeared the afternoon March 6.
“On the day of the tornado, there was no indication that severe weather was approaching. No watches had been issued, and it seemed like a normal, beautiful day,” said Bennett.
Bennett shared that in-house training has led to Three Rivers school bus drivers practicing a variety of responses to emergency situations including inclement weather during Beginning Bus Driver School.
A local news outlet reported that the tornado was severe enough to down trees and rip roofs off buildings. Superintendent Nikki Nash shared a letter on social media March 8 saying that the “rapid and severe” weather emergency struck at the “most challenging time possible: During afternoon dismissal.” With many school buses already on the road transporting students home, it was crucial to act quickly.
Bennett explained that when the tornado warning sirens sounded, most bus drivers did not hear them because they were on routes, but the transportation office staff were alerted on their phones and through the radio. Dispatch then contacted the drivers immediately and directed the buses to re-route to safe locations at the nearest school building.
According to the local news report, within 10 minutes all students were accounted for.
Both Bennett and Nash commended the district’s school bus drivers for their quick response to the inclement weather emergency (Photo courtesy of Kelly Bennett)
Nash thanked the drivers and staff for their heroic actions and tornado response. “While we recognize that these emergency protocols caused significant delays and inconveniences for many of you, the safety of our students and staff is our absolute top priority,” she said. “I want to thank our students for their bravery, our staff for their quickly thinking and you- our families- for your patience and cooperation as we worked to ensure every child was out of harm’s way.”
Unfortunately, the district’s new transportation building that houses the district’s 20 buses “took a direct hit,” as the tornado passed through. Nash shared in her statement that they “lost the garage roof with several damaged vehicles, including buses in the parking lot.”
Bennett said that the damage was confined to the garage and did not impact the office, so transportation staff that were onsite during the tornado were unharmed.
“Due to the extent of the damage, we are unable to operate from that facility,” said Bennett. “In the meantime, we have returned to our old building, where the mechanic is handling repairs, and the office staff is now working out of the middle school. Although the transition has been challenging, we are continuing to adapt and make it work. Once the garage is secured, we will be able to return to operating out of the office.”
Tornado Response Hinges on Adequate Training
Bennett shared that her advice to other transportation directors “is that there is never such a thing as too much training, especially when it comes to safety.”
She continued that it’s imperative to make this safety training a priority, regularly review procedures during department meetings and investing in additional training opportunities beyond in-house resources.
“Our drivers are trained to prioritize safety above all else when transporting students. In emergency situations, I expect them to remain calm and maintain control, as their response will influence how everyone on the bus reacts,” said Bennett, adding that she emphasizes another facet of school bus safety, “clear and concise communication over the radio.”
She advised “keeping messages brief and direct so others can quickly understand and respond,” which aides safety efforts for both the 16 drivers in the district and the 1,194 students they transport each day.
The local media report also shared that the community banded together for recovery and rebuilding efforts, and the bus drivers drove their normal routes on Monday following the tornado response to ensure that routes were safe for students to return to school.
“Our thoughts and prayers of support go out to everyone who was personally impacted by this event,” stated Nash. “We know that the cleanup process will take days and even weeks, but our strength remains unshaken.”
A school bus driver in southeastern Massachusetts is under investigation after authorities say he allegedly urinated inside a bus while transporting young students to an elementary school.
The incident occurred March 30, as the bus was on route to Hoyle Elementary School, according to a news release from the Swansea Police Department.
Police said preliminary findings indicate that the 71-year-old driver pulled the bus over during the route and instructed students to move to the back. He then allegedly remained in the driver’s seat and relieved himself inside the vehicle while the children were still on board.
After the incident, the driver completed the route and dropped off the students at the school, authorities said. The situation came to light when some of the children reported what had happened to school staff, prompting an investigation by school officials and police.
“This type of behavior in the presence of children, especially young children, is unacceptable,” a statement reads.
Authorities said there were 12 children on the bus at the time, ranging from pre-kindergarten to second grade. Police noted that investigators currently believe none of the students directly witnessed the act itself.
School officials notified the parents of all children who were on the bus. The driver, who has not been publicly identified, is no longer permitted to operate within the Swansea Public Schools system. Police said the school district informed Amaral Bus Company, the transportation provider for the district, that the driver has been removed from service.
In addition, Swansea Public Schools is reviewing its relationship with the company and considering measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
As of Monday afternoon, no criminal charges had been filed against the driver. Detectives are continuing to investigate the allegations.
School officials have also filed a report with the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families in accordance with standard procedures. Officials emphasized the seriousness of the matter and said the investigation remains ongoing.
Massachusetts parents are among those nationwide breathing easier after First Student and the Teamsters reached a tentative agreement, averting a nationwide school bus driver strike.
The labor deal was announced Tuesday ahead of a contract deadline and after two days of bargaining meetings.
Last week, union members voted to authorize a strike if negotiations completely broke down. The Teamsters represents more than 17,000 First Student school bus drivers nationwide, including those serving multiple districts in Massachusetts.
Union leaders said the agreement came after workers signaled they were prepared to walk off the job if necessary. The hang up had been benefits and time off. The tentative agreement is providing sronger retirement benefits, improved access to health care benefits, and robust contractual protections for all members, according to the Teamsters.
“First Student Teamsters were unified and prepared to take on this company nationwide,” Teamsters General President Sean O’Brien said in a statement. “Our solidarity forced real movement at the bargaining table, and we delivered a contract in the 11th hour that honors the critical work our members do every day.”
According to the union, the tentative labor deal establishes a national framework for wages and benefits, including stronger retirement plans, improved access to health care and enhanced contractual protections. Local unions will continue negotiating additional terms, and members are expected to vote on the agreement in the coming weeks.
“This tentative agreement is the direct result of members standing shoulder to shoulder and refusing to settle for less,” said Matt Taibi, director of the Teamsters Passenger Transportation Division. “Workers showed the company they were prepared to strike if necessary, and that solidarity made the difference at the bargaining table.”
First Student confirmed the agreement in a statement to STN, calling it “a tentative agreement on a new, fair National Master First Student Agreement.” The company said the proposal will now move through the union’s ratification process with the bargaining team’s full support.
“There has been no disruption to service, and we will continue to operate as normal,” a company spokesperson said. “We appreciate the professionalism and engagement of everyone involved in reaching this milestone.”
The agreement eases concerns for families who rely on school bus service. In Massachusetts, parents had expressed concern that a strike would create significant challenges for working households with limited transportation options.
Labor Deal Avoids Parental, School Disruptions
First Student provides transportation services for several school districts across the state, among the hundreds in 40 other states. Many communities depend heavily on the company’s drivers to maintain daily school bus and classroom operations. A disruption in service could have forced families to make last-minute arrangements or keep students at home.
School officials had also warned through local news reports that even the threat of a strike added strain to an already tight transportation system. In Wayland, Superintendent David Fleishman pointed to an ongoing shortage of drivers.
“It’s challenging when there is not a strike,” Fleishman said. “We are hopeful this will be settled since kids need to be in school and school needs to be open.”
Transportation shortages have affected some districts in recent years, with fewer drivers available to cover routes. Officials said a strike would have further complicated efforts to ensure students arrive safely and on time.
Pennsylvania officials are investing nearly a quarter million dollars to train new school bus drivers as part of a new program aimed at improving student transportation safety across the state.
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation said in a statement last month the funding will help seven school districts and transportation providers cover costs tied to training nearly 90 new drivers, including commercial driver’s license training, trainee wages, testing fees and permit costs.
Officials said the funding is part of Gov. Josh Shapiro’s newly established School Bus Safety Program, designed to expand the number of qualified drivers and strengthen safety measures for students traveling to and from school. The national school bus driver shortage remains one of the greatest challenges faced by school transportation.
“Ensuring enough drivers to safely get our students to school is another way we’re focusing on our children’s futures,” said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll in a statement.
He added that the funding will help schools and transportation providers make student transportation more reliable.
The funds awarded will support driver training programs across multiple counties. Recipients include the Chartiers Valley School District in Allegheny County, which received $17,256 to train 12 new drivers, and Fullington Auto Bus Company serving Centre and Clearfield counties, which received $42,500 to train 25 drivers.
Other recipients include contractor Krapf School Bus – GKJ Inc. serving Chester, Dauphin and York counties, which received $98,160 to train 32 drivers; Boyo Transportation Services in Dauphin County, which received $31,250 to train 10 drivers; the North East School District in Erie County, which received $8,160 to train eight drivers; the Laurel School District in Lawrence County, which received $1,000 for driver certification costs; and DMJ Transportation in Westmoreland County, which received $50,000 to train additional drivers.
Program award funds comes from fines collected through Pennsylvania’s automated school bus enforcement system. State law allows school buses to use camera systems to capture motorists who illegally pass buses with flashing red lights and extended stop arms.
Officials said $25 of each $300 fine issued through the enforcement system goes toward the School Bus Safety Grant Program. STN contacted the districts awarded but had not heard back at this writing.
A Georgia school bus driver is being hailed as a hero after stopping her route to alert and safely evacuate a family from a house fire, reported FOX 5 Atlanta.
Marlene Davis, a Morgan County school bus driver, was on her morning route March 20 when she noticed smoke and flames coming from a home, according to the news report.
“I saw the big flame coming from inside the house,” Davis told local news reporters. “I just had to stop the bus and go to the door.”
Davis, who had one student on the school bus at the time, pulled over and rang the doorbell until someone answered, the report said.
A man inside, who had been asleep, answered the door and was unaware that the home was surrounded by flames. Davis helped him and others inside to evacuate safely. Everyone inside the house did not suffer any injuries, and the fire was later contained.
Davis said she later realized how serious the situation was after receiving a message from her supervisor indicating the residents had been asleep.
“It was the only thing that I could have done, and it was the right thing to do,” she said. “And I couldn’t just leave them.”
Later that day, the homeowner where the evacuated family lived flagged Davis down by flashing his vehicle headlights to give her a card and express his gratitude for her actions. Family members and loved ones also expressed gratitude for the driver’s quick thinking, which may have prevented serious injury or worse.
Officials have not released additional details about the cause of the fire. The investigation is ongoing.
A Bibb County school bus driver is being praised for his quick-thinking by steering a bus full of students to safety at a local fire station during a tornado warning, reported 13wmaz.
Alfonso Ponder, who drives for Bibb County Schools, told local news reporters that he began his March 12 route around 5:45 a.m. and expected a routine morning before conditions quickly deteriorated.
“Everything was pretty, pretty good until about 6:30 [a.m.] maybe,” Ponder said via the article. “[Then] I got an alert to my phone saying we was up on a tornado warning and take shelter. Dispatch had told us to take shelter also.”
With about 15 students on board headed to Howard High School, Ponder was driving near a fire station when the alert came through and winds intensified. He decided to pull into the station.
“I had about 15 kids on the bus at the time, and I had decided to pull up because the wind was blowing so hard,” he told reporters. “When I pulled up, the firefighter welcomed me along with 15 kids in for safety.”
Ponder said he had been monitoring the worsening weather and had already identified the fire station as the safest nearby option.
“The weather was kind of getting bad,” he said. “So, I already had to figure out, OK, if they tell us shelter in place, I was gonna try to make it to the fire station, because that’s about the safest place around I can make it.”
Students Kept Safe as Tornado Warning Passes
Firefighters brought Ponder and the students inside, where they remained for about 20 to 25 minutes until the tornado warning expired, and it was safe to continue the route.
The storm frightened many of the students, Ponder stated. “Most of them [were] telling me, ‘Can you please get me back to the house?’” he said. “I said, ‘No, I cannot. I got to get y’all to safety.’ And that’s the only thing was on my mind at the time, getting the kids’ safety, my safety.”
Ponder, who has been driving school buses for about three years, said the experience was his first encounter with a tornado warning while on the job. Afterward, several parents contacted him to express gratitude for protecting their children.
Capt. Keith Carter said his crew at Bibb County Fire Station 3 acted immediately when the bus arrived. “My 25 years, that was my first school bus pulling to the station,” Carter said. “I knew something was wrong. We assisted them getting off the bus, coming into the station. Mr. Ponder; he did follow his protocol. So, he came to the nearest, safest place. We wake up every day wanting to help different people.”
Ponder said he remains thankful that everyone made it through the storm unharmed.
“I want to give a special thanks to the Bibb County Fire Department for allowing me and the kids to get to safety,” he said. “I’m glad all the kids and my coworkers, everybody, was safe.”
Police arrested a suburban Denver school bus driver on suspicion of sexually assaulting a child.
Officers for the Lakewood Police Department were notified March 11 of a possible assault involving a 10-year-old student and the child’s school bus driver, identified as 64-year-old Robert Charles Watters, according to authorities.
A child reported that the Jefferson County Public Schools driver had engaged in what investigators described as an “inappropriate relationship,” prompting an immediate investigation.
Watters turned himself in March 12 and was taken into custody. He was arrested and faces charges on suspicion of sexual assault on a child involving a pattern of abuse and a position of trust, police said.
The allegations stem from what police called an inappropriate relationship. No further details were provided.
“As part of this investigation, detectives are asking anyone who may have information or believes they may have been a victim or witness to come forward,” police said in a March 13 statement posted to Facebook, urging the public to contact the Lakewood Police tip line.
Watters remained in custody at the Jefferson County jail as of March 13, authorities said.
According to police, Watters has worked as a school bus driver for Jefferson County Public Schools near Denver since 2018. He drove Hutchinson Elementary School students on the C-49 route from 2021 to 2023 and had been assigned to the C-31 route since August 2023.
Officials emphasized that the charges are allegations and that Watters is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Police continue to investigate and are asking anyone with information related to the case to contact authorities. The investigation remains ongoing.
A school bus aide on Long Island was arrested and accused of physically abusing multiple students with special needs, including restraining them by pushing and sitting on them, reported People.com.
According to the news report, police took 37-year-old Devone Medlock of Amityville into custody on March 17, following an investigation into an incident reported in January.
Detectives said Medlock, who worked as an aide for school bus contractor First Student and served a local school, became “physically and verbally abusive with multiple children who are special needs students.”
Medlock is reportedly accused of pushing, slamming, restraining and sitting on the students during the incident, which was first reported Jan. 13. He was arrested at his Long Island home.
Police charged Medlock with six counts of third-degree assault, six counts of menacing in the third degree, and six counts of endangering the welfare of a child. He was scheduled to be arraigned last weekend.
School District Responds
Uniondale School District Superintendent Monique Darrisaw-Akil said Medlock was immediately terminated following the allegations coming to light. The school also district notified law enforcement.
“We have been cooperating with law enforcement in their investigation and will continue to cooperate fully with law enforcement as this matter proceeds through the legal system,” Darrisaw-Akil said in a statement. “The safety and well-being of our students is our highest priority. We are committed to ensuring any individual or individuals responsible for any abusive or harmful behavior towards any of our students are held accountable.”
First Student also said the alleged conduct was unacceptable, and confirmed Medlock is no longer employed by the company.
Authorities are asking anyone who may have been a victim or has information about the case to contact Nassau County Crime Stoppers at at 1-800-244-TIPS.
We examine the impact of the war in Iran and Clean School Bus program updates on district fuel choices, as well as a Pennsylvania school bus driver arrested after driving over 50 students while intoxicated.
We are joined by Nate Springer, vice president of market development at TRC Companies, the presenter of the upcoming Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) EXPO. He unpacks the reasoning behind various fuel choices available to school districts today and funding options amid changes to the Clean School Bus program.
A school bus driver is making a statement each morning before starting his route, not only with his safety checks but by dressing for success with a suit and tie.
John Sitar, a bus operator for Hampshire County Schools in West Virginia, has made old-school business dress part of his daily routine for the past 15 years. The attire is a “self-imposed uniform,” a way to show students that he takes pride in his job and cares about the children he serves.
Sitar’s story is one of several highlighted recently by the West Virginia Department of Education and county school systems during Public Schools Week, observed Feb. 23–27.
Before heading out on his route each day, Sitar makes sure one final detail is in order: His tie is on straight. He added the decision to from a lesson he learned as a student himself.
Dressing for Success
“When I was in high school, the principal made the men wear a tie, and the women had to dress up,” Sitar said in the statement. “It made a difference, and it set them apart as role models. I wanted to do that for these children.”
Sitar has spent most of his life in Hampshire County. He grew up on a farm, where he said he learned the value of hard work. Later, he served in the U.S. Army as both an Army Ranger and Green Beret. He eventually returned home to the West Virginia Potomac Highlands.
Now, he says his role behind the wheel of a school bus allows him to continue serving his community.
“I know these kids might not see this every day,” Sitar said. “Any interaction any staff member has with students is important. And if you acknowledge them as a human being, and somebody notices them when they get on the bus, that is a big deal to them.”
Nearly half of Hampshire County public-school student come from low socioeconomic households, according to data shared by the West Virginia Department of Education. Sitar said that reality is something he sees firsthand every day.
Because of that, he said small gestures matter, including the suit he dons every weekday.
“Bus drivers are the first people the children see in the morning, and the last ones they see in the evening,” Sitar said. “I think what we do makes a difference. I just want them to know that I care about them.”
A mother is facing multiple charges after authorities allege she assaulted a school bus driver while trying to board her children in Cobb County, Georgia, reported WSB-TV 2.
According to the news report, Zaria Stovall is accused of boarding a Marietta City Schools bus and confronting the driver Feb. 24.
Police say via the article that Stovall refused to get off the bus and threatened the driver. The encounter escalated into a physical altercation, during which Stovall allegedly struck the driver and threw a spray bottle at him.
Stovall’s children were on the bus at the time of the incident. Authorities have not said what prompted the confrontation.
She was charged with simple assault, simple battery, criminal trespassing and disruption of public-school education, according to authorities.
Stovall later posted a $5,000 bond, jail records show. Authorities have not released additional details about the driver’s condition.
Police arrested a 71-year-old school bus driver in Florida and charged him with lascivious molestation after a 9-year-old student reported inappropriate behavior during a school bus ride.
According to the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office, the case began March 4, when a school resource deputy received a report about concerning behavior involving a bus driver. The school bus driver allegedly asked a 9-year-old student to lift her dress while she was riding a school bus.
Deputies immediately launched a preliminary investigation. According to the press release, investigators gathered additional information during follow-up interviews that prompted the case to be referred to the agency’s Criminal Investigations Division for further review.
Authorities identified the suspect as Edwin Garcia of Port St. Lucie. Following the investigation, Garcia was arrested and charged with two counts of lewd and lascivious molestation of a victim under the age of 12 by an offender 18 years of age or older, officials said.
Garcia was transported to the St. Lucie County Jail for processing. The sheriff’s office said the investigation remains active, and anyone with information related to the case is encouraged to contact authorities.
A school bus driver is facing dozens of charges after authorities say she drove a bus carrying 54 elementary school children while heavily intoxicated.
An arrest warrant was issued for Kelly Weber, 46, of Boyertown. She is charged with driving under the influence, 54 counts of endangering the welfare of children, 54 counts of reckless endangerment and several summary offenses, according to the office of Kevin R. Steele and Robert B. Evans.
Police said the drunk driving incident with children on board occurred around 4 p.m. Feb. 6 in Douglass Township after authorities received reports of a school bus driving erratically, narrowly missing other vehicles and nearly striking a telephone pole.
An officer located the bus near Second Avenue and Gilbert Road, where it had come to rest in a snowbank.
Investigators said the bus belonged to Quigley Bus Service. Officers reported finding an open 750-milliliter bottle of Tito’s Handmade Vodka on the bus, along with two empty 50-milliliter bottles of the same brand. Police also recovered a receipt showing the alcohol had been purchased at a Fine Wine & Good Spirits earlier that morning.
Authorities said Weber consented to a blood test. Results from NMS Labs showed her blood alcohol concentration was 0.331. Testing also detected Delta-9 Carboxy THC at a level of 6.6.
Drunk Driving Incident Endangers Dozens of Children
Investigators determined that 54 children were on the bus during the route, including five under age 6. Authorities said several children contacted their parents during the ride, saying they were frightened by the driver’s behavior. One child got off the bus early and was picked up by parents.
“More than 50 young children were in a dangerous situation created by this defendant, who chose to consume a significant amount of alcohol and then get behind the wheel of a school bus and drive miles while intoxicated,” Steele said in a statement.
Officials said Weber checked herself into a rehabilitation facility shortly after the incident. Police said arrangements are being made for her to surrender to authorities, after which she will be arraigned on the drunk driving and endangerment charges, and bail will be set.
An informative seminar at the STN EXPO East conference will combine classroom education with hands-on demonstrations to illustrate the importance of ensuring proper mirror placement on school buses and combatting distracted driving.
The “Focused Driver 111: Proper Mirror Adjustment and Distracted Driving” session is scheduled for March 28. Safe School Bus Consulting owner Dave McDonald will start with a classroom session on Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 111 guidance. This will include the history and subsequent evolution of the standard and then lead into school bus driver responsibilities regarding proper mirror adjustment to ensure that the driver has the required field of view around the bus.
Attendees will proceed to the parking lot and participate in a real-life demonstration of determining blind spots and making sure the mirrors are properly adjusted to cover them. McDonald will use traffic cones to mimic the cylinders called for by FMVSS 111 to conduct a grid exercise developed for testing the mirrors. The purposes is to confirm that the mirrors are mounted and adjustable to a position to see the parts of the grid needed. The placement of the cones will represent where young children could be approaching and walking near the school bus.
Driver Training With an Eye on Distractions
McDonald will also discuss distracted driving, including the many distractions that could pull away the attention of a school bus drivers. He will also discuss how to train drivers to take responsibility of reviewing their mirrors before even starting the vehicle. McDonald plans to review video cases of distracted driving, including a recent incident involving a girl in Brooklyn who was struck and killed by a school bus, and engage with attendees to identify what could have been done differently. He said he plans to outline not only distracted driving causes but deterrents, preventions and potential consequences for failing to follow guidelines.
McDonald worked for Rosco Vision Systems, the sponsor of the training session, for 26 years in product development of cross view mirror systems as well as in sales and engineering. McDonald said he hopes to empower and equip attendees with information that explains the common mistakes made by transportation departments.
The STN EXPO East conference will be held on March 26-31 at Embassy Suites by Hilton Charlotte Concord Golf Resort & Spa. Main conference registration gives access to five days of educational sessions, hands-on training, unique networking events, product demonstrations and updates on the latest industry happenings. Register at stnexpo.com/east.
Each year, School Transportation News gathers photos and videos from school districts and transportation companies across the U.S. that document how they celebrated Love the Bus Month. This year, we asked student transportation leaders about the impact of recognizing the importance of yellow school buses and showing appreciation to the individuals who transport students safely every day.
We uncovered a variety of Love the Bus celebrations ranging from highlighting student transportation staff on social media, catered events for transportation department, goodie bags for school bus drivers and special events with a Valentine’s Day flair.
Prosper Independent School District (Texas)
Teri Mapengo, director of transportation at Prosper Independent School District near Dallas, Texas, shared how multiple fun events showed the transportation department staff how much they are valued.
“We focus on meaningful and creative ways to celebrate our team and reinforce that they are truly seen and appreciated,” Mapengo explained. “This year, we hosted Puppy Wellness Days to bring moments of joy and stress relief, served pancakes and sausage after morning routes, partnered with Raising Cane’s ‘Love Bus’ to surprise staff with swag and gave bus beanies to every employee.”
The pictures were worth a thousand words, showing the happiness the furry visitors brought to the staff. Transfinder recognized Mapengo last summer at the STN EXPO West conference leading one of the industry’s Top Transportation Teams, so she has a long-standing history of creating meaningful connections with her team. She continued that the district’s Love the Bus celebrations continued with a superintendent ride-along that allowed for personal recognition and relationship building with the school bus drivers.
“Love the Bus Month matters because transportation is built on people, relationships and trust. Our teams show up before sunrise, in every kind of weather, carrying the responsibility of safely transporting what matters most—our students. Much of their work happens quietly behind the scenes, and this month gives us the opportunity to pause and recognize the heart behind the wheel,” she added. “Recognition reminds our drivers, monitors, mechanics, and support staff that their work has a lasting impact on students, families, and the entire school community,” said Mapengo. “While February gives us a dedicated time to celebrate, appreciation must be part of our culture year-round. When people feel valued, they feel connected to the mission—and that connection strengthens morale, safety, service, and retention.”
Mapengo summed up her advice to other directors. “Recognition doesn’t have to be expensive, it just has to be genuine. Celebrate your people publicly, involve your community and find ways to reflect your team’s unique culture” she recommended. ”Most importantly, make appreciation a habit, not just a moment. When transportation teams feel valued, it strengthens morale, builds pride and positively impacts the students and communities we serve.”
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Teri Mapengo shared photos from her district's Love the Bus celebrations (LinkedIn/Teri Mapengo)
Teri Mapengo shared photos from her district's Love the Bus celebrations (LinkedIn/Teri Mapengo)
Teri Mapengo shared photos from her district's Love the Bus celebrations (LinkedIn/Teri Mapengo)
Teri Mapengo shared photos from her district's Love the Bus celebrations (LinkedIn/Teri Mapengo)
Teri Mapengo shared photos from her district's Love the Bus celebrations (LinkedIn/Teri Mapengo)
Teri Mapengo shared photos from her district's Love the Bus celebrations (LinkedIn/Teri Mapengo)
Teri Mapengo shared photos from her district's Love the Bus celebrations (LinkedIn/Teri Mapengo)
Prosper Independent School District in Texas was one of the thousands of districts nationwide to celebrate Love the Bus in February 2026. (LinkedIn/Teri Mapengo).
Teri Mapengo shared photos from her district's Love the Bus celebrations (LinkedIn/Teri Mapengo)
Teri Mapengo shared photos from her district's Love the Bus celebrations (LinkedIn/Teri Mapengo)
Teri Mapengo shared photos from her district's Love the Bus celebrations (LinkedIn/Teri Mapengo)
Teri Mapengo shared photos from her district's Love the Bus celebrations (LinkedIn/Teri Mapengo)
Teri Mapengo shared photos from her district's Love the Bus celebrations (LinkedIn/Teri Mapengo)
Teri Mapengo shared photos from her district's Love the Bus celebrations (LinkedIn/Teri Mapengo)
Teri Mapengo shared photos from her district's Love the Bus celebrations (LinkedIn/Teri Mapengo)
Teri Mapengo shared photos from her district's Love the Bus celebrations (LinkedIn/Teri Mapengo)
Teri Mapengo shared photos from her district's Love the Bus celebrations (LinkedIn/Teri Mapengo)
Teri Mapengo shared photos from her district's Love the Bus celebrations (LinkedIn/Teri Mapengo)
Teri Mapengo shared photos from her district's Love the Bus celebrations (LinkedIn/Teri Mapengo)
Buncombe County School District (North Carolina)
Jeremy Stowe, director of transportation at Buncombe County Schools in North Carolina, spoke last year at STN EXPO East in Charlotte-Concord, North Carolina about how his transportation department stepped up to assist emergency services after Hurricane Helene. Stowe’s maintenance team was recognized as a 2025 Garage Star because of these efforts. This year, the students showed their appreciation by washing district school buses as a “tangible way to say thank you,” shared Stowe.
Stowe shared why Love the Bus Month matters. “Student transportation is often the first and last interaction a child has with our school system each day. Our drivers set the tone. They provide safety, stability and often encouragement before a student even walks into a classroom,” he commented. “Recognizing these drivers reinforces that their work is not just operational, it is relational and critical to our daily operations.”
He continued,“Year-long recognition is just as important. Drivers operate in all weather conditions, manage student behavior on a moving vehicle, and carry tremendous responsibility. When we intentionally celebrate them, we strengthen morale, keep drivers, and a positive tone to the culture of our entire district.”
Buncombe also highlights their transportation department’s work on social media regularly, especially noted Stowe, during weather events that require extra safety efforts from the staff. He also shared that members of the local Board of Education did ride-alongs on the school buses, “as another visible manner of recognizing all our drivers do for our district.”
Stowe said his advice to other school districts looking to thank and recognize their student transportation departments is to make recognition personal and visible., “Everyone wants to be told ‘Thank You’, you are important to what we do. Say it and show it. Invite everyone to participate (Principals, Teachers, Students, PTO’s, and Board Members). Post stories publicly. Deliver handwritten notes. Small gestures matter when they are sincere and consistent. Transportation professionals don’t do the work for recognition and they deserve all the recognition they can get.”
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Buncombe County Schools shared photos of an outreach from students for Love the Bus Month (Facebook/Buncombe County Schools)
Buncombe County Schools shared photos of an outreach from students for Love the Bus Month (Facebook/Buncombe County Schools)
Buncombe County Schools shared photos of an outreach from students for Love the Bus Month (Facebook/Buncombe County Schools)
Buncombe County Schools shared photos of an outreach from students for Love the Bus Month (Facebook/Buncombe County Schools)
Buncombe County Schools shared photos of an outreach from students for Love the Bus Month (Facebook/Buncombe County Schools)
Buncombe County Schools shared photos of an outreach from students for Love the Bus Month (Facebook/Buncombe County Schools)
Buncombe County Schools shared photos of an outreach from students for Love the Bus Month (Facebook/Buncombe County Schools)
Buncombe County Schools shared photos of an outreach from students for Love the Bus Month (Facebook/Buncombe County Schools)
Buncombe County Schools shared photos of an outreach from students for Love the Bus Month (Facebook/Buncombe County Schools)
Buncombe County Schools also highlights their transportation department on social media to highlight their work (Facebook/Buncombe County Schools)
Buncombe County Schools also highlights their transportation department on social media to highlight their work (Facebook/Buncombe County Schools)
Laramie County School District #1 (Wyoming)
Kathleen Larsen, a transportation supervisor at Laramie County School District #1 in Wyoming, shared a unique perspective on the importance of her transportation department as she is a parent of two students who ride her district’s school buses.
Jenn Simpson, another transportation supervisor at Laramie, reached out to School Transportation News with a submission that was shared by a school bus driver who works under Larsen. Simpson shared that Laramie County recognizes Love the Bus by engaging with the transportation department to ask why they “Love the Bus.” School bus driver Fabiola “Faby” Andujo was the first to respond.
She came to Laramie after obtaining her CDL through Climb Wyoming, a program that works with single mothers to provide job training, including certifications and assisting with job placement. Simpson said she is currently on medical leave and wanted to share her reasons why she loves her job.
Andujo showed her passion for her vital role. “I love my bus and I miss it because every student is a treasure to their family. We carry the most valuable cargo. Each student is a story whose ending we don’t know yet. Maybe they’ll become a new bus driver, a lawyer, a teacher, a police officer, a soldier, an engineer, an architect, a doctor, a nurse, a singer, an actor, a judge, a governor, a mayor, or even the next president in a few years,” she shared. “That’s why we drive carefully and make sure they arrive at their destination safely. Every smile in the morning, a good morning, a thank you is the best payment I can receive. I love my bus because it’s safe, and new stories are created every day. I want to tell you that I miss each and every one of you, and I feel very grateful for the opportunity to belong to this department.
“I am truly blessed. I’m doing my best in my recovery so I can return and continue taking the students to school and, in the afternoons, to their bus stops. I also miss taking field trips because I’ve gotten to see new places,” she continued “Thanks also to the mechanics who keep the buses running. I miss everyone, but especially my students and my teaching assistant. That’s why I love my bus because it’s safe, it’s big and it can take me to many places. Lots of love, Faby, I miss my bus 101.”
Larsen said that watching her children walk out the front door to ride the school bus each morning reinforces the impact of student transportation in children’s lives.
“To me, the school bus is the ultimate act of trust…That trust matters deeply to me, and it’s something I think about constantly. I try to lead this department with a parent’s heart, guided by the belief that every child on every route deserves the same care, patience, and warmth I want for my own girls,” explained Larsen.
“That’s exactly why celebrating Love the Bus Month matters,” she continued. “When we take time to recognize our drivers, TAs, mechanics, shop staff, dispatchers, coordinators, or trainers, we’re not just checking a box. We’re acknowledging the heart, effort and care they bring to this work. It’s a reminder that they aren’t just operating a vehicle — they are shaping experiences and building trust with kids every day. More than a thank you, this recognition helps our entire community better understand what this job truly involves. It reminds our staff that they aren’t working in isolation at the bus garage but are a vital part of the school family. When we celebrate the bus, we celebrate the peace of mind we give to parents and the safe, welcoming environment we create for students. Most of all, we honor the people who show up day after day — snow or shine — to make sure our kids get where they need to go and have the opportunity to learn and succeed.”
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Transportation Supervisor Jenn Simpson shared this photo of the Laramie County School District #1 buses
Kathleen Larsen, transportation supervisor at Laramie County School District #1 shared these photos of school bus driver Fabiola “Faby” Andujo
Kathleen Larsen, transportation supervisor at Laramie County School District #1 shared these photos of school bus driver Fabiola “Faby” Andujo
Watauga County Schools (North Carolina)
Another school district in a more rural area of North Carolina made sure to recognize the dedication of their transportation team, as shared by Janet Tanner, the district’s transportation director.
“In Watauga County, our school bus drivers are more than employees — they are family. As a small rural mountain county in Western North Carolina, relationships matter deeply to us. Love the Bus month allows our school system and community to express gratitude for the individuals who safely transport our students each day,” she said.
Watauga County Schools’ Love the Bus celebrations included tokens of appreciation from the district and kind words from the community.
“Each year, we present our drivers with a token of appreciation. This year, every driver received a fleece jacket embroidered with our Watauga Bus emblem — a visible symbol of pride and unity. Our entire transportation department participated in personally delivering the jackets, which helps build relationships between drivers and staff. In addition, our Communications Director Bailey Little collected and shared heartfelt notes from parents and students across our social media platforms. These messages highlighted the kindness, dependability and care our drivers show daily.”
Just as the other directors noted, Tanner shared that Love the Bus celebrations don’t and should not be relegated to merely the month of February.
“Our commitment to appreciation extends well beyond the one month,” said Tanner. “Prior to the start of school, we host a back-to-school meeting, where drivers receive critical safety training, policy updates and procedural guidance. With the generous support from our vendors, we also provide lunch and door prizes, creating a welcoming and celebratory atmosphere. This event ensures drivers feel both prepared and valued,” she said
She continued, “Throughout the school year, have your department staff make visits to drivers before or after their routes, bring them small treats or simply tell them how much they are appreciated. These personal touches reinforce a culture of recognition and respect.”
She also noted that the district regularly posts “Driver Spotlights” on social media to connect the drivers behind the wheel with the local community saying that these outreaches “foster pride among drivers and strengthen the connection between families and the transportation team.
“In Watauga County, appreciation is not a single event—it is a culture,” she added. “We are committed to honoring them not just during Love the Bus month, but throughout the entire year.”
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Watauga County Schools shared photos of the gifts they gave school bus drivers for Love the Bus Month (Facebook/Watauga County Schools)
Watauga County Schools shared photos of the gifts they gave school bus drivers for Love the Bus Month (Facebook/Watauga County Schools)
Watauga County Schools shared photos of the gifts they gave school bus drivers for Love the Bus Month (Facebook/Watauga County Schools)
Watauga County Schools shared photos of the gifts they gave school bus drivers for Love the Bus Month (Facebook/Watauga County Schools)
Watauga County Schools shared photos of the gifts they gave school bus drivers for Love the Bus Month (Facebook/Watauga County Schools)
Watauga County Schools shared photos of the gifts they gave school bus drivers for Love the Bus Month (Facebook/Watauga County Schools)
Watauga County Schools shared photos of the gifts they gave school bus drivers for Love the Bus Month (Facebook/Watauga County Schools)
Watauga County Schools asked the community to send in letters for Love the Bus Month to highlight their transportation department (Facebook/Watauga County Schools)
Watauga County Schools asked the community to send in letters for Love the Bus Month to highlight their transportation department (Facebook/Watauga County Schools)
A Texas transportation director provided attendees with a live demo of the Bytecurve payroll and dispatch software, as well as numerous tips on improving school bus operational efficiency.
Bryan Mitchell, marketing manager for Bytecurve parent company Transit Technologies, explained during the Thursday webinar that with COVID-era funding programs ending, budget concerns combined with routine driver shortages, upset parents and disconnected tech systems complicate student transportation operations every day. He noted that half of U.S. students rely on school bus services but the number of school bus drivers decreased 15 percent from 2019 to 2023.
Mitchell reviewed a case study on the $30,000 monthly labor cost savings that Rome School District in Georgia achieved with Bytecurve, along with nearly eliminating payroll errors and saving 10 hours per week in driver communications and payroll reconciliation. He added that Russellville School District in Arkansas reported saving $15,000 per month.
Additionally, fellow webinar panelist Jonquez Moore, transportation director of Little Elm ISD in northeast Texas, discovered school bus efficiency by bringing two school district transportation operations in-house from contractors and implemented Bytecurve both times.
“We live in a very connected world. Unfortunately, in K-12 it’s not very connected,” observed Jonathan Agenten, director of sales for Bytecurve.
The payroll, scheduling and dispatch system lets drivers clock in via tablet, app or wall clock. Moore said some Little Elm ISD drivers like using the app to save time but noted a tablet option is available for drivers who are reluctant to download the app. He confirmed the app is location based so drivers can only clock in when they are within a predetermined distance from the facility. Agenten added that management can send notifications and see when the drivers read them.
Moore said he appreciated how real-time bus locations arranged in an airport terminal-style dashboard allows managers to proactively handle late, delayed or canceled routes.
“When it’s busy, you don’t know a bus is late until it’s late,” he commented.
Moore shared a view of his Bytecurve dashboard with webinar attendees and pointed out that dispatchers can easily see what drivers are clocked in and what buses they are assigned to. Managers can also manually clock in drivers or remove buses or drivers from the schedule if an event is canceled.
Noting his fondness for reports, Moore showed how easy it is to access on-time performance reports, which he shares with district administration and uses to praise his drivers.
Various stats are clickable, he added, allowing deep dives into problem areas. He said he uses this information to talk to his team and determine what to change.
“I’m not getting paid for this [webinar], so I really believe in their system,” Moore declared.
He added that a report on planned vs. scheduled vs. actual hours worked is a favorite of the district chief financial officer as it helps with budget questions.
He noted that if there is an unexpected school bus driver shortage, a dispatcher can reassign the route with a few clicks. The system also notes what drivers are already working and therefore unavailable.
Identifying Additional Efficiencies in Operations
When changing tiered routes, where a driver was assigned to elementary and middle or high schools, Agenten confirmed that routes can be split up and reassigned by school or stop. The system notes the resulting changes and the app communicates those changes to parents.
He reviewed payroll integrations and confirmed that each district is a unique customer that Bytecurve will set up according to its particular rules.
When it comes to union requirements and driver minimum hours, task codes added upon system setup become part of the foundation so “things are calculated proactively and accurately,” Agenten said. Managers can use a few clicks to approve driver timesheets based on these preapproved district procedures.
He also answered an attendee question by stating that Bytecurve integrates with several tablets and also provides one of its own.
Mitchell reviewed Transit Technologies’ other offerings, one of which is onboard student and driver facing cameras that are ruggedized, reliable and warranty protected. busHive software allows districts to quickly quote, set up, complete and get reimbursed for field trips. FASTER Maintenance Software allows technicians to proactively manage bus repairs.
There were many thoughtful celebrations during Love the Bus Month in February from school districts and transportation companies across North America that recognized their student transportation staff with events and gifts highlighted via social media posts.
Scroll through this year’s gallery for a glimpse of the festivities.
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Cabarrus County Schools Transportation in North Carolina thanked their drivers for their “steady hands and big hearts” during Love the Bus Month.
Cabarrus County Schools Transportation in North Carolina thanked their drivers for their “steady hands and big hearts” during Love the Bus Month.
Cabarrus County Schools Transportation in North Carolina thanked their drivers for their “steady hands and big hearts” during Love the Bus Month.
Cabarrus County Schools Transportation in North Carolina thanked their drivers for their “steady hands and big hearts” during Love the Bus Month.
Cabarrus County Schools Transportation in North Carolina thanked their drivers for their “steady hands and big hearts” during Love the Bus Month.
Cabarrus County Schools Transportation in North Carolina thanked their drivers for their “steady hands and big hearts” during Love the Bus Month.
Comal Independent School District in Texas posted photos from a district wide celebration during Love the Bus Month that highlighted the over 500 student transportation professionals that cover an average of 2,356,322 miles per year for the students in their community.
Comal Independent School District in Texas posted photos from a district wide celebration during Love the Bus Month that highlighted the over 500 student transportation professionals that cover an average of 2,356,322 miles per year for the students in their community.
Comal Independent School District in Texas posted photos from a district wide celebration during Love the Bus Month that highlighted the over 500 student transportation professionals that cover an average of 2,356,322 miles per year for the students in their community.
Comal Independent School District in Texas posted photos from a district wide celebration during Love the Bus Month that highlighted the over 500 student transportation professionals that cover an average of 2,356,322 miles per year for the students in their community.
Comal Independent School District in Texas posted photos from a district wide celebration during Love the Bus Month that highlighted the over 500 student transportation professionals that cover an average of 2,356,322 miles per year for the students in their community.
Durham School Services shared a post about school bus driver Robert Colella who was nominated by one of his student riders as a community helper. General Manager of the transportation team in Little Egg Harbor, New Jersey, Patty Manzoni, thanked Colella for his 35 years of service.
Durham School Services shared a post about school bus driver Robert Colella who was nominated by one of his student riders as a community helper. General Manager of the transportation team in Little Egg Harbor, New Jersey, Patty Manzoni, thanked Colella for his 35 years of service.
Durham School Services shared a post about school bus driver Robert Colella who was nominated by one of his student riders as a community helper. General Manager of the transportation team in Little Egg Harbor, New Jersey, Patty Manzoni, thanked Colella for his 35 years of service.
Laura Hill, General Manager of Transportation Services at Hillsborough County Public Schools said this photo of their school bus fleet shows “the strong culture of teamwork, pride, and commitment that defines Hillsborough County Public Schools Transportation Services.”
Jennifer Gardella, director of transportation at Rockwall Independent School District in Texas shared these photos saying “I’m grateful for the opportunities to serve our team.! I’m impressed everyday what we do as a team and the magic we make happen. We transport the future.”
Jennifer Gardella, director of transportation at Rockwall Independent School District in Texas shared these photos saying “I’m grateful for the opportunities to serve our team.! I’m impressed everyday what we do as a team and the magic we make happen. We transport the future.”
Jennifer Gardella, director of transportation at Rockwall Independent School District in Texas shared these photos saying “I’m grateful for the opportunities to serve our team.! I’m impressed everyday what we do as a team and the magic we make happen. We transport the future.”
Katy Independent School District in Texas thanked not only their drivers but the mechanics, routers, office staff and aides who show up rain or shine to make sure students are transported safely.
Katy Independent School District in Texas thanked not only their drivers but the mechanics, routers, office staff and aides who show up rain or shine to make sure students are transported safely.
Katy Independent School District in Texas thanked not only their drivers but the mechanics, routers, office staff and aides who show up rain or shine to make sure students are transported safely.
Katy Independent School District in Texas thanked not only their drivers but the mechanics, routers, office staff and aides who show up rain or shine to make sure students are transported safely.
Katy Independent School District in Texas thanked not only their drivers but the mechanics, routers, office staff and aides who show up rain or shine to make sure students are transported safely.
Katy Independent School District in Texas thanked not only their drivers but the mechanics, routers, office staff and aides who show up rain or shine to make sure students are transported safely.
Katy Independent School District in Texas thanked not only their drivers but the mechanics, routers, office staff and aides who show up rain or shine to make sure students are transported safely.
Katy Independent School District in Texas thanked not only their drivers but the mechanics, routers, office staff and aides who show up rain or shine to make sure students are transported safely.
Lee County Schools in North Carolina highlighted the drivers who cover their daily 105 routes, recognizing the crucial part they play in the educational system and encouraging the community to thank the drivers for all they do.
Lee County Schools in North Carolina highlighted the drivers who cover their daily 105 routes, recognizing the crucial part they play in the educational system and encouraging the community to thank the drivers for all they do.
Lee County Schools in North Carolina highlighted the drivers who cover their daily 105 routes, recognizing the crucial part they play in the educational system and encouraging the community to thank the drivers for all they do.
Lee County Schools in North Carolina highlighted the drivers who cover their daily 105 routes, recognizing the crucial part they play in the educational system and encouraging the community to thank the drivers for all they do.
Jeffrey Flatt submitted this photo of pre-k and kindergarten students at Oak Hill School in Nashville, Tennessee celebrating Love the Bus Month.
Orange County Public Schools in Florida highlighted their transportation team for Love the Bus Month, thanking school bus drivers for being the “friendly faces our students see in the morning and the ones who ensure every journey ends with a safe trip home,” and provided lunch for the staff members.
Orange County Public Schools in Florida highlighted their transportation team for Love the Bus Month, thanking school bus drivers for being the “friendly faces our students see in the morning and the ones who ensure every journey ends with a safe trip home,” and provided lunch for the staff members.
Orange County Public Schools in Florida highlighted their transportation team for Love the Bus Month, thanking school bus drivers for being the “friendly faces our students see in the morning and the ones who ensure every journey ends with a safe trip home,” and provided lunch for the staff members.
Orange County Public Schools in Florida highlighted their transportation team for Love the Bus Month, thanking school bus drivers for being the “friendly faces our students see in the morning and the ones who ensure every journey ends with a safe trip home,” and provided lunch for the staff members.
Orange County Public Schools in Florida highlighted their transportation team for Love the Bus Month, thanking school bus drivers for being the “friendly faces our students see in the morning and the ones who ensure every journey ends with a safe trip home,” and provided lunch for the staff members.
Orange County Public Schools in Florida highlighted their transportation team for Love the Bus Month, thanking school bus drivers for being the “friendly faces our students see in the morning and the ones who ensure every journey ends with a safe trip home,” and provided lunch for the staff members.
Penn Harris Madison Schools in Indiana highlighted school bus driver Lesley Perry as the Culver’s Driver of the Month. Perry has driven for the district for nearly 30 years and is known in the community for her kindness and dedication.
Penn Harris Madison Schools in Indiana highlighted school bus driver Lesley Perry as the Culver’s Driver of the Month. Perry has driven for the district for nearly 30 years and is known in the community for her kindness and dedication.
Penn Harris Madison Schools in Indiana highlighted school bus driver Lesley Perry as the Culver’s Driver of the Month. Perry has driven for the district for nearly 30 years and is known in the community for her kindness and dedication.
Safety Vision representatives went to local school districts in Texas to personally thank the student transportation professionals who keep school buses rolling and transporting students to and from school safely. Safety Vision representatives went to local school districts in Texas to personally thank the student transportation professionals who keep school buses rolling and transporting students to and from school safely.
Safety Vision representatives went to local school districts in Texas to personally thank the student transportation professionals who keep school buses rolling and transporting students to and from school safely.
Safety Vision representatives went to local school districts in Texas to personally thank the student transportation professionals who keep school buses rolling and transporting students to and from school safely.
Sharp Bus Lines in Ontario, Canada shared photos of a special Valentine’s Day themed Love the Bus celebration with the Brantford drivers and staff members.
Sharp Bus Lines in Ontario, Canada shared photos of a special Valentine’s Day themed Love the Bus celebration with the Brantford drivers and staff members.
Sharp Bus Lines in Ontario, Canada shared photos of a special Valentine’s Day themed Love the Bus celebration with the Brantford drivers and staff members.
Sharp Bus Lines in Ontario, Canada shared photos of a special Valentine’s Day themed Love the Bus celebration with the Brantford drivers and staff members.
Sharp Bus Lines in Ontario, Canada shared photos of a special Valentine’s Day themed Love the Bus celebration with the Brantford drivers and staff members.
Spartanburg County School District 6 in South Carolina posted photos of their school bus drivers and aides wearing custom made shirts to celebrate Love the Bus Month and their continual dedication to the students they serve.
Spartanburg County School District 6 in South Carolina posted photos of their school bus drivers and aides wearing custom made shirts to celebrate Love the Bus Month and their continual dedication to the students they serve.
Spartanburg County School District 6 in South Carolina posted photos of their school bus drivers and aides wearing custom made shirts to celebrate Love the Bus Month and their continual dedication to the students they serve.
Spartanburg County School District 6 in South Carolina posted photos of their school bus drivers and aides wearing custom made shirts to celebrate Love the Bus Month. Facebook/@
Spartanburg County School District Six
Spartanburg County School District 6 in South Carolina posted photos of their school bus drivers and aides wearing custom made shirts to celebrate Love the Bus Month. Facebook/@
Spartanburg County School District Six
Verra Mobility sales executive Matt Reich went to Orange County in Florida to participate in a school bus driver appreciation event.
Verra Mobility sales executive Matt Reich went to Orange County in Florida to participate in a school bus driver appreciation event.
Verra Mobility sales executive Matt Reich went to Orange County in Florida to participate in a school bus driver appreciation event.
Wake County Public Schools in North Carolina had a special Love the Bus Month celebration at East Cary Magnet Middle School that was organized by former state director of pupil transportation Derek Graham. The bus drivers received breakfast and goodie bags as part of School Bus Driver Appreciation Week festivities.
Wake County Public Schools in North Carolina had a special Love the Bus Month celebration at East Cary Magnet Middle School that was organized by former state director of pupil transportation Derek Graham. The bus drivers received breakfast and goodie bags as part of School Bus Driver Appreciation Week festivities.
Wake County Public Schools in North Carolina had a special Love the Bus Month celebration at East Cary Magnet Middle School that was organized by former state director of pupil transportation Derek Graham. The bus drivers received breakfast and goodie bags as part of School Bus Driver Appreciation Week festivities.
Wake County Public Schools in North Carolina had a special Love the Bus Month celebration at East Cary Magnet Middle School that was organized by former state director of pupil transportation Derek Graham. The bus drivers received breakfast and goodie bags as part of School Bus Driver Appreciation Week festivities.
Wake County Public Schools in North Carolina had a special Love the Bus Month celebration at East Cary Magnet Middle School that was organized by former state director of pupil transportation Derek Graham. The bus drivers received breakfast and goodie bags as part of School Bus Driver Appreciation Week festivities.
Wake County Public Schools in North Carolina had a special Love the Bus Month celebration at East Cary Magnet Middle School that was organized by former state director of pupil transportation Derek Graham. The bus drivers received breakfast and goodie bags as part of School Bus Driver Appreciation Week festivities.
Wake County Public Schools in North Carolina had a special Love the Bus Month celebration at East Cary Magnet Middle School that was organized by former state director of pupil transportation Derek Graham. The bus drivers received breakfast and goodie bags as part of School Bus Driver Appreciation Week festivities.
Wake County Public Schools in North Carolina had a special Love the Bus Month celebration at East Cary Magnet Middle School that was organized by former state director of pupil transportation Derek Graham. The bus drivers received breakfast and goodie bags as part of School Bus Driver Appreciation Week festivities.
Wake County Public Schools in North Carolina had a special Love the Bus Month celebration at East Cary Magnet Middle School that was organized by former state director of pupil transportation Derek Graham. The bus drivers received breakfast and goodie bags as part of School Bus Driver Appreciation Week festivities.
Wake County Public Schools in North Carolina had a special Love the Bus Month celebration at East Cary Magnet Middle School that was organized by former state director of pupil transportation Derek Graham. The bus drivers received breakfast and goodie bags as part of School Bus Driver Appreciation Week festivities.
The West Virginia Department of Education posted photos from Kanawha County Schools' main transportation terminal featuring school bus driver AJ Cline giving a behind the scenes look at student transportation operations.
The West Virginia Department of Education posted photos from Kanawha County Schools' main transportation terminal featuring school bus driver AJ Cline giving a behind the scenes look at student transportation operations.
The West Virginia Department of Education posted photos from Kanawha County Schools' main transportation terminal featuring school bus driver AJ Cline giving a behind the scenes look at student transportation operations.
The West Virginia Department of Education posted photos from Kanawha County Schools' main transportation terminal featuring school bus driver AJ Cline giving a behind the scenes look at student transportation operations.
The West Virginia Department of Education posted photos from Kanawha County Schools' main transportation terminal featuring school bus driver AJ Cline giving a behind the scenes look at student transportation operations.
Appoquinimink School District in Delaware shared these photos of their bus drivers at work in the district, commending them for going above and beyond in participation in safety trainings, creating bus safety programs for young students and taking part in a school bus roadeo event.
Appoquinimink School District in Delaware shared these photos of their bus drivers at work in the district, commending them for going above and beyond in participation in safety trainings, creating bus safety programs for young students and taking part in a school bus roadeo event.
Appoquinimink School District in Delaware shared these photos of their bus drivers at work in the district, commending them for going above and beyond in participation in safety trainings, creating bus safety programs for young students and taking part in a school bus roadeo event.
Appoquinimink School District in Delaware shared these photos of their bus drivers at work in the district, commending them for going above and beyond in participation in safety trainings, creating bus safety programs for young students and taking part in a school bus roadeo event.
Appoquinimink School District in Delaware shared these photos of their bus drivers at work in the district, commending them for going above and beyond in participation in safety trainings, creating bus safety programs for young students and taking part in a school bus roadeo event.
Appoquinimink School District in Delaware shared these photos of their bus drivers at work in the district, commending them for going above and beyond in participation in safety trainings, creating bus safety programs for young students and taking part in a school bus roadeo event.
Appoquinimink School District in Delaware shared these photos of their bus drivers at work in the district, commending them for going above and beyond in participation in safety trainings, creating bus safety programs for young students and taking part in a school bus roadeo event.
Appoquinimink School District in Delaware shared these photos of their bus drivers at work in the district, commending them for going above and beyond in participation in safety trainings, creating bus safety programs for young students and taking part in a school bus roadeo event.
Appoquinimink School District in Delaware shared these photos of their bus drivers at work in the district, commending them for going above and beyond in participation in safety trainings, creating bus safety programs for young students and taking part in a school bus roadeo event.
Appoquinimink School District in Delaware shared these photos of their bus drivers at work in the district, commending them for going above and beyond in participation in safety trainings, creating bus safety programs for young students and taking part in a school bus roadeo event.
A veteran school bus driver is being hailed as a hero after her quick thinking helped keep dozens of students safe during a crash that took place on the way to a basketball game.
Linda Christophersen, 75, affectionately known as “Miss Linda” to students at Vernonia High School, was driving the boys and girls basketball teams to a game at Nestucca High School Feb. 13. An oncoming vehicle crossed the center line and struck the bus on Highway 101, about five miles from the teams’ destination.
Christophersen’s daughter Tonya Langley told local news reporters that her mom saw the vehicle edging into her lane and reacted immediately.
“She could see the vehicle coming at her was crowding the center line, so she started crowding the fog line as much as she could,” Langley recounted. “She yelled, ‘Hold on,’ and then when it hit, the bus tried to go to the left and then immediately went to the right into the bank. She did everything she could to try to hold it.”
Despite the impact, Christophersen brought the school bus to a controlled stop. Langley said her mother’s first concern was not her own injuries, but the students on board.
“She goes, ‘I’m fine but it’s not about me.’ She immediately [turned her attention] to the kids. It was all about the kids and how the kids were,” Langley said.
In a statement to families, Jim Helmen, superintendent of the Vernonia School District, confirmed that the student-athletes, coaches and the Christopherson were safe following the school bus crash.
One student experienced a seizure during the school bus crash and was transported to Tillamook Hospital for evaluation. Another student sustained an injury but did not require hospital transport. Emergency responders evaluated Christopherson and all her passengers at the scene.
Helmen also praised Christophersen’s actions.
“I would like to recognize our bus driver, Linda, for her professionalism and composure in responding to a very difficult situation. Her training and steady response helped maintain stability and student safety during the incident,” he wrote.
The superintendent thanked first responders, including the Oregon State Police, who responded to the scene and took statements.
Helmen also expressed gratitude to the Nestucca School District for assisting students and staff after the crash. Nestucca administrators worked with law enforcement to help transport Vernonia students from the scene to Nestucca High School, where parents provided food and counseling support for students who were understandably shaken. The school also opened its library as a quiet space for students and staff.
“It was shared with me by Nestucca administration that our students were very respectful, thankful and represented the Vernonia community extremely well,” Helmen wrote. “That is something we can all be proud of.”
The superintendent further thanked Girls and Boys Basketball coaches David Weller and Ken Ellis, Athletic Director Justin Ward, and Principal Nate Underwood for their leadership during the incident, as well as Shelley H. and Rob Curl of Curls Transportation Co. for their quick response in dispatching another bus.
Friday evening’s basketball games were canceled.
Heroic Driver Eager to Get Back Behind the Wheel
A few days after the school bus crash, Christophersen was sore but recovering well. She declined an interview request, but her daughter said the recognition is well-deserved.
“My mom has never known her own worth, and she’s never put herself out there,” Langley said via local news reports. “It just made me very, very proud.”
Christophersen began driving a school bus after her husband passed away because she wanted to stay active and involved in the community. Her experience behind the wheel stretches back decades — from driving dump trucks for the family business to navigating rugged logging roads long before it was common to see women in the industry.
Today, she’s known for decorating her bus, bringing treats for students and even chaperoning prom. And despite the frightening crash, Langley said her mother is eager to return to work.
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