Could you save $15,000 in monthly payroll?

The essential dispatch and payroll solution designed to improve on-time performance and slash hours of tedious payroll processes, Bytecurve can help its users drive significant payroll savings by linking pay to tasks and routes – not simply hours assigned.

Learn how Russellville, Arkansas School District Transportation Department saved $15,000 per month in payroll by implementing Bytecurve.

Russellville Transportation Director Chris King will share his experience onboarding a new GPS solution that powered the Bytecurve solution – and drove ~$150,000 in annual payroll savings.

Register to learn how your fleet might be next to transform the way your team manages dispatch and payroll processing.

Brought to you by Bytecurve

REGISTER BELOW:

 

Presenters:

Christopher King
Transportation Director
Russellville School District

 

 

 

 

 

Christina Herdman
Payroll Specialist
Russellville School District

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AUBREY, Texas – Durham School Services and the Aubrey Independent School District have extended their partnership for another five years through 2030. This extension signals the school district’s strong, continued trust and confidence in Durham’s transportation services.

Durham began providing transportation services to the school district over twenty years ago and currently runs 37 routes for the school. Over the last 20+ years, the team has fully integrated itself and became part of the community by participating in and supporting various community outreach events as part of its Partners Beyond the Bus community outreach program. These community outreach efforts include donating to the Aubrey Education Foundation, participating in community parades, and more.

“Aubrey ISD is excited about the expanded partnership with Durham School Services, which brings significant enhancements to student transportation through innovative tracking technology and improved scheduling,” said Eric Hough, Assistant Superintendent, Aubrey Independent School District. “The district is particularly pleased with the new three-tier system, which reduces student wait times, and the addition of RFID tracking that keeps parents informed about their children’s bus activities. With these comprehensive improvements—including enhanced field trip coordination and new activity buses—the district looks forward to providing the smoothest school start possible while continuing to elevate transportation services throughout the contract period.”

“Being able to serve Aubrey ISD the last 20+ years has been honor and we are looking forward to the next five years,” said Regional Manager Brian Gibson, Durham School Services. “The Aubrey team is an exceptional team that always strives to exceed expectations and improve their service to their students and the community. The school district also has the same sentiments and as a result of that, has continued to put their trust and the safety of their students in our hands for over two decades and counting. We truly cherish and are grateful for their unfaltering support and confidence in our team and will continue to provide the safe, reliable service they have trusted and expect.”

About Durham School Services: As an industry-leading student transportation provider, Durham School Services is dedicated to the safety of our students and People. For more than 100 years, we have been committed to Excellence and upholding our mission of getting students to school safely, on time, and ready to learn. Through this mission and a grassroots approach to our operations, Durham School Services has earned recognition as a trusted transportation provider among our Customers and the Communities we serve.

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School bus drivers are surrounded by driver airbags while they’re on their way to and from work. So, it’s fair to ask: why aren’t frontal airbags in school buses, too?

The simple answer? A car airbag just can’t be easily installed into a school bus. It takes an enormous amount of engineering. While it might sound like a simple upgrade, airbags are not one-size-fits-all. Every airbag system is finely tuned to the vehicle it’s installed in, from the size and shape of the vehicle to how fast it typically moves, even to how the seat and steering wheel are designed. Installing a system that wasn’t made for a school bus just wouldn’t work.

That’s where 4Front comes in. 4Front by IMMI is specifically designed to give drivers extra protection during serious frontal crashes, specifically the kind of crash that would be severe enough to set off an airbag. Industries that already use frontal airbag protection have seen first-hand how this advanced safety system can save lives. Whether in a fire truck rushing to an emergency or a heavy-duty semi-truck crossing the country, IMMI’s 4Front airbags have helped protect drivers from serious injuries in the worst crashes. And now, that same safety technology is available to protect school bus drivers.

What Actually Goes into a School Bus Airbag?

Before any actual crash testing ever happens, IMMI engineers and crash safety experts spend 18-24 months developing and validating a new airbag system for school buses. That time is spent running through multiples stages of development including work like:

• Simulation Testing: Computer modeling plays a critical role in the early stages of airbag system development. These simulations allow engineers to predict how a school bus and its driver would respond during a variety of frontal crash scenarios. By analyzing these virtual crash events, engineers can evaluate potential injuries, study how the body moves during impact, and fine-tune the design of the airbag system accordingly. This approach enables IMMI to test and improve safety performance efficiently, reducing the number of full vehicle crashes required, saving time and resources, and helping to ensure that the final system offers the best possible protection when deployed in the real world.
• Sled Testing: Before a full school bus is ever crash tested, several tests are run using a specialized setup called a sled test. This test uses real bus parts, like the actual driver seat, seat belt, steering column, and steering wheel, mounted to a platform that simulates a crash. There are normally 3 to 5 runs to figure out the exact speeds where the airbag should or should not deploy. These are called “no fire” (airbag does not go off) and “must fire” (airbag does go off) speeds. Important things to look at during these tests are injury numbers and how the body moves (kinematics) to make sure the system protects the driver correctly. The test setup, or “sled buck,” is built by CAPE, the Center for Advanced Product Evaluation, IMMI’s own crash test and safety engineering partner.
• Resonance Testing: Not every part of a school bus is an ideal location for a crash sensor. To ensure accurate performance, various mounting positions are tested to identify the most reliable spots for detecting impact. This process, known as resonance testing, helps confirm that the sensor can distinguish between a true crash event and normal road vibrations. Proper sensor placement is critical to ensure the airbag system deploys only when necessary, contributing to a dependable and effective safety system.
• Barrier Testing: Now that all the simulations, initial sled tests run, and sensors mounted in the correct places, it’s time to crash a school bus! As part of the final validation process, barrier crash testing is conducted at CAPE to confirm the airbag system performs as intended in a variety of real-world crash conditions. Multiple barrier types are used to simulate different crash scenarios. Additional tests include the bus hitting the barrier at different angles (not just a head-on collision), to confirm that deployment occurs only in severe frontal crashes. Each test helps confirm that the 4Front airbag system responds the right way in serious crashes, giving drivers the protection they need, only when it’s needed.

This wraps up development for the airbag program for the school bus.

What Can You Do?

If you’re interested in learning more about 4Front airbags to better protect your drivers, here are a few steps you can take:

• Learn more about 4Front
• Get further information on CAPE’s crashes and capabilities
• Watch a CAPE-led school bus crash demonstration highlighting 4Front in action here:

• Talk to your transportation director about IMMI’s 4Front system
• Contact your bus dealer or IMMI

Every driver deserves to go home safely. Let’s make sure all school bus drivers are protected, too.

Built to Work with Lap-Shoulder Belts

4Front is also designed to work hand-in-hand with another proven safety technology: lap-shoulder belts. More school buses are now being built with these belts because they help keep drivers and students securely in place during a crash, reducing the risk of serious injuries. When used together, lap-shoulder belts and 4Front airbags create a layered safety system that protects the driver from both initial and secondary impacts. If your bus has lap-shoulder belts, you’re already one step ahead. 4Front helps take it even further.

For more than 60 years, IMMI has been a leader in advancing occupant safety across transportation industries. From school buses and commercial trucks to ambulances and fire apparatuses, IMMI designs and manufactures safety systems trusted by OEMs and fleets around the world. With a deep focus on real-world protection and rigorous testing, IMMI has led the way in setting industry standards for seat belts, child seating, and advanced restraint technologies.

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

The post Cars Have Driver Airbags – Shouldn’t School Buses Have Them Too? appeared first on School Transportation News.

As 9-year-old Luke sat idly on the school bus to his after-school activity, anger swelled in a seat not far away. The animosity soon boiled over, initiating a loud and intense struggle between Luke and an older student.

Hearing the altercation, the driver immediately tapped her event marker, triggering automated actions from her contractor’s fleet management software. These actions would ultimately help the bus contractor resolve Luke’s event within minutes.

What actions were triggered? How did they facilitate a speedy resolution?

For answers, let’s look at ARMOR Software Suite, the contractor’s wireless, cloud-based fleet management tool, and the integrated REI surveillance system.* While the suite offers many automated features, the two triggered by the event marker involved event alerts and video downloading.

Automated Event Alerts

Seconds after the event marker’s activation, ARMOR auto-generated an alert and sent it to the contractor’s cellphone. Anxious about the alert, the contractor accessed ARMOR’s live look-in feature to assess the situation.*

The real-time, high-definition view from the onboard camera system revealed the irate older student standing over a much smaller Luke. While the incident appeared to have ended, Luke still cowered as if injured. The contractor immediately called the driver’s two-way radio to notify her about Luke’s condition, then returned to ARMOR to watch video of the entire incident.

Automated Video Downloads

Because ARMOR was configured to auto-download all event videos from vehicle DVRs, the contractor didn’t have to wait long to view it. What’s more, the video included padding and showed all actions before and after the altercation.

Within minutes of its occurrence, the contractor obtained full event details. A misunderstanding between Luke and the older student resulted in repeated punches to Luke’s head, leaving him dazed and sore. Because of ARMOR’s automation and its ability to produce video quickly, the suite saved the contractor hours of research. More importantly, it showed the hits sustained by Luke, prompting an urgent concussion assessment.

Think how these automated tools would benefit your operation. Would your team like to forget about hard drive retrieval? Be more proactive in minimizing bullying?

How would they react to even more automated features, such as:

• Diagnostic warnings/updates about engines and REI surveillance systems*
• Daily activity reports about vehicles
• Status notifications about vehicle features/operations
• Stop-arm violation alerts*

Discover how ARMOR’s automated capabilities can enhance fleet safety, increase efficiency and reduce stress on your team. Visit radioeng.com to learn more, watch a demo or contact us.

*Requires additional hardware and/or specific cellular service plans. Ask for details.

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

The post Automate to Elevate Safety & Fleet Management appeared first on School Transportation News.

MISSISSAUGA, Canada — Rush Truck Centres of Canada, a subsidiary of Rush Enterprises, Inc. (NASDAQ: RUSHA and RUSHB), the largest network of commercial vehicle dealerships in North America, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Leeds Transit, a leading Canadian bus dealership group covering Ontario, Quebec, and the Maritimes.

The newly formed division will operate under the name Rush Bus Centres of Canada and will function as a separate business unit within Rush Truck Centres of Canada. As part of the acquisition, Rush Bus Centres will continue operations at Leeds Transit’s current dealership locations in Elgin, Ontario; Woodstock, Ontario; and St-Roch-de-l’Achigan, Quebec. The division will offer the full lineup of IC Bus and Collins Bus products throughout its regional territory.

“We are very excited to announce this transaction,” said Kevin G. Tallman, CEO of Rush Truck Centres of Canada. “Leeds Transit is a highly respected name in the bus industry. We are grateful to Kelly Backholm and his family for the opportunity to carry forward the legacy of this outstanding company. This acquisition supports our strategic goal to expand our geographic dealership footprint in Ontario and further diversify our product portfolio in Canada. I am pleased to welcome all Leeds Transit employees to the Rush Enterprises family, and we look forward to working with them to serve both existing and future bus customers across Eastern Canada.”

“After 55 years serving the Canadian bus market, Leeds Transit is very pleased that Rush Truck Centres of Canada will be leading our company forward. Rush Truck Centres is by far the best choice for all our employees and customers with their many service dealerships that were built on the same family values as ours. To all our Leeds employees, past and present, I would like to say thank you on behalf of Aaron, Brennan and myself, it’s been one of the greatest honours of my life to work with you, and I’m looking forward to your continued success and growth” Adds Kelly Backholm, President, Leeds Transit.

About Rush Truck Centres of Canada:
Rush Truck Centres of Canada is part of Rush Enterprises, Inc., which operates the largest network of commercial vehicle dealerships in North America, with over 150 locations across 23 U.S. states and 15 dealerships plus 6 associate locations in Ontario, Canada. Since 1973, Rush has provided a full-service, one-stop shop for commercial vehicles, offering rush jnew and used sales for heavy- and medium-duty brands including International Truck, IC Bus, Collins Bus, Isuzu, Kalmar Ottawa, and Battle Motors. The company also offers heavy-haul and live bottom trailers, parts, service, collision repair, and leasing and rental solutions through Idealease. For more information, visit www.rushtruckcentres.ca.

About Leeds Transit:
Founded in 1970 by Roy Backholm and currently led by Kelly Backholm, Leeds Transit has grown into the largest bus dealership group in Canada. Leeds Transit is a full-service commercial and school bus dealership group offering parts, sales, and service for IC Bus, Collins and Trans Tech, from three locations in Ontario and Quebec.

The post Rush Truck Centres of Canada Acquires Leeds Transit appeared first on School Transportation News.

CUMBERLAND, R.I. – Blackstone Valley Prep (BVP) recently celebrated an electrifying milestone – its fleet of electric school buses surpassed 100,000 miles traveled since hitting the roads last winter. Since its introduction to the community, the new fleet of 24 electric vehicles (EV) has been met with revere and praise for their quiet nature and most importantly, the beneficial impact on the futures of their students and community.

In this major milestone for sustainable student transportation, the 100,000 miles Blackstone Valley Prep’s EV fleet has traveled is a distance that marks more than just mileage. The electric buses have prevented approximately 157,198 kgs of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere thus far, which is equivalent to taking around 33 passenger vehicles off the road for an entire year, based on conversion factors from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). As illustrated by the statistics above, it is clear that these EV school buses are creating a healthier and more sustainable future where every mile driven helps reduce harmful emissions and promotes cleaner air in their communities.

Beth Dowd, Director of Operations at Blackstone Valley Prep shared, “We’re so proud to have surpassed 100,000 miles already in the handful of months we’ve been running our electric fleet! We are deeply committed to the well-being of all of our scholars and our entire community, and these numbers are showing us that this effort will make a significant impact over time.”

“Congratulations to BVP for reaching this incredibly impactful milestone. This 100K mile achievement is a testament to the real-world impact electric school buses are having on the environment and the communities they serve,” said Wayne Skinner, Senior Vice President of Fleet & Procurement, Durham School Services. “It is crucial that we recognize these EV milestones and share progress updates and data, which can then be used to support and advocate for state and federal EV funding assistance programs. BVP’s milestone is just one of many more to come, and we hope you’ll join and support us as we continue to advocate for healthier, greener futures for our students and communities.”

About Durham School Services: As an industry-leading student transportation provider, Durham School Services is dedicated to the safety of our students and People. For more than 100 years, we have been committed to Excellence and upholding our mission of getting students to school safely, on time, and ready to learn. Through this mission and a grassroots approach to our operations, Durham School Services has earned recognition as a trusted transportation provider among our Customers and the Communities we serve.

The post Blackstone Valley Prep’s Electric School Buses Drive Students to a Healthier Future with 100K Milestone appeared first on School Transportation News.

SCHENECTADY, N.Y. and KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Transfinder Corporation is pleased to announce Ewing Marion Kauffman School in Missouri has selected Transfinder’s award-winning routing solution Routefinder PLUS to create the safest and most efficient routes for its students.

Located in Kansas City, the Ewing Marion Kauffman School is a free public charter school serving students in middle school and high school on its three-school campus.

In addition to PLUS, Ewing Marion Kauffman School purchased additional Transfinder solutions, such as: Transfinder Hardware, driver app Wayfinder, parent app Stopfinder and Viewfinder, which gives users a bird’s eye view of the district’s transportation operation.

Transfinder President and CEO Antonio Civitella welcomed Ewing Marion Kauffman School to the Transfinder family.

“We are so happy to have Ewing Marion Kauffman School as a client.” Civitella said. “Large and small districts alike benefit from having this powerful tool that that has Artificial Intelligence Optimization embedded in it. Because it is highly customizable, districts like the Ewing Marion Kauffman School can tailor their experience to their individual needs.”

About Transfinder
Founded in 1988 and headquartered in Schenectady, New York, Transfinder is a global leader in intelligent transportation systems, providing transportation management systems and services to municipalities, school districts and adult care facilities. Transfinder, has been on Inc. magazine “fastest-growing company” list for 12 years. The software and hardware company has received numerous awards, including Best Software, Best Hardware and Best Safety Technology. In addition, Transfinder has repeatedly won Best Place to Work, Top Workplace and Best Companies to Work for accolades. Transfinder develops and supports routing and scheduling solutions for optimal transportation logistics. Transfinder also launched Patrolfinder policing technology to assist law enforcement. For more information, visit www.transfinder.com

The post Ewing Marion Kauffman School Picks Transfinder appeared first on School Transportation News.

WASHINGTON, DC, – Operation Lifesaver, Inc. (OLI), the national rail safety education nonprofit, is urging the public to recognize and understand how to use Emergency Notification System (ENS) signs – not just on the first-ever Emergency Notification System (ENS) Sign Awareness Day, taking place Tuesday, June 24, 2025, but year-round.

“Located across the U.S. where roadways cross railroad tracks, ENS signs provide a critical connection to railroads in emergencies,” said OLI Executive Director Rachel Maleh. “Recognizing and using this sign in a crisis – like a stuck vehicle or trouble on the tracks – can save lives, when seconds count.”

Each rectangular Blue and White ENS sign displays a unique phone number and crossing ID – vital information that allows the public to report emergencies quickly, when every moment matters.

See trouble on or near the tracks? Safely find the ENS sign, call the number listed and provide the crossing ID. This is also great information to share when calling 911.

If your vehicle is stuck or stalls on the tracks:
Get out immediately. Get far away from the tracks – even if no train is in sight.
Find the ENS sign and call the number listed. Give the dispatcher the crossing ID.
No sign, call 911.

“The sign may be small, but its impact is enormous,” said Maleh. “This campaign empowers people with knowledge that can make all the difference in an emergency. Knowing what to do – and how to act quickly – can prevent a tragedy.”

“ENS Sign Awareness Day is a powerful reminder – but this is a message that matters every day of the year,” Maleh added. “Together, we can stop track tragedies.”

A Nationwide Awareness Effort
ENS Sign Awareness Day — June 24, 2025 — shines a spotlight on the lifesaving importance of the Blue and White Emergency Notification System (ENS) signs posted at railroad crossings. Help raise awareness wherever you are — at home, on the job or out in your neighborhood.

What You Can Do
Engage Locally. Connect with your State Coordinator and attend an ENS community event. Educate your friends, family and community about ENS signs and how to use them. Follow OLI on social and share our daily rail safety education messages.
Volunteer with OLI. Share our ready-to-use PSAs, videos, infographics and social posts. Share the importance of the ENS sign as well as OLI’s FREE RISC Training with your first responders.

About Operation Lifesaver
Operation Lifesaver, Inc. (OLI) is a national #RailSafetyEducation nonprofit dedicated to stopping track tragedies through public awareness and education campaigns as well as a national volunteer network that gives free presentations encouraging safe behavior near tracks and trains. OLI supports the efforts of 47 state programs and the District of Columbia in sharing the rail safety education message. Explore OLI’s virtual library of rail safety materials on the oli.org website. Visit oli.org to learn more, take a rail safety pledge, request free presentations and volunteer. Follow OLI on social media via Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, X and YouTube.

The post Operation Lifesaver, Inc. Launches Inaugural ENS Sign Awareness Day on June 24 Campaign Spotlights Lifesaving Blue and White Signs at Railroad Crossings appeared first on School Transportation News.

GOSHEN, Ind. — Forest River Bus & Van, a division of Forest River, Inc., is proud to
announce a series of leadership advancements aimed at strengthening operations,
enhancing the customer experience, and supporting long-term growth.

Forest River has named Douglas Wright as President of its Bus, Van, and Marine divisions. With more than three decades of experience in the automotive industry, Wright is known for his strategic leadership, operational expertise, and commitment to customer service.

“This company was built by people who care deeply about what they do—and who they do it for,” Wright said. “Our responsibility now is to carry that legacy forward while continuing to refine and elevate the customer journey.

Supporting that vision is longtime Forest River leader Mike Terlep, newly appointed as Director of Sales for the Bus division. Terlep will lead all sales efforts across government, commercial, and dealer channels in North America. With a strong foundation in both RV and commercial transportation, he brings decades of hands-on experience and a reputation for being dependable and dealer focused.

“There’s no substitute for consistency and follow-through,” Terlep said. “We’ve built a strong foundation, and I’m excited to help carry that forward, ensuring every agency, fleet, and dealer experiences the strength of our commitment.”

But this expansion goes beyond titles. It’s about reimagining what service looks like at every step from initial order to years after delivery. To do that, Forest River has introduced two new roles focused on aligning the ownership experience with the operational precision behind each build.

• Ryan Lamb has been named Director of Customer Experience, leading efforts to
bring greater continuity, speed, and clarity to every customer touchpoint. With
nearly two decades in commercial vehicle manufacturing, Lamb understands how
critical it is to get things right the first time and keep them running right long after.

• On the dealer side, Matt Steele has been named Director of Dealer Experience. With a background in product development, dealer operations, and customer service, Steele’s mission is to make it easier than ever for Forest River’s network of dealers to succeed.

Together, these leadership moves reinforce what has always set Forest River apart: its people, its partnerships, and its purpose.

The post Forest River Bus & Van Expands Leadership to Drive Operational Excellence and Customer Support Nationwide appeared first on School Transportation News.

SCHENECTADY, N.Y. and HOOVER, Ala. – After a nine-month search, Transfinder Corporation is pleased to announce Hoover City Schools in Alabama has selected Transfinder’s award-winning routing solution Routefinder PLUS to create the safest and most efficient routes for its students.

Located in the Birmingham, Ala. Metropolitan area, Hoover City Schools has about 13,567 students attending 18 schools.

In addition to PLUS, Hoover City purchased additional Transfinder solutions, such as: driver app Wayfinder, field trip planner Tripfinder, Infofinder i for student ridership information and Viewfinder, which gives users a bird’s eye view of the district’s transportation operation.

“As a school system, we took nine months to evaluate several different options in school transportation,” said Dr. Brad Hayn, Hoover City’s director of transportation. “We supplied each company we met with a list of needs and wants when it came to a transportation partner for Hoover City Schools. Transfinder checked every box for us and we are excited about what future holds as we move forward as a partner with Transfinder.”

Dr. Haydn said the Transfinder and Hoover City teams have quickly built a relationship.

“Every step of the way it has been about more than just being a customer,” he said “Every person we have met and worked with from Transfinder has treated us as family and they truly care about the success of Hoover City Schools.

Transfinder President and CEO Antonio Civitella welcomed Hoover City Schools to the Transfinder family.

“We are so happy to have Hoover City as a client.” Civitella said. “Large and small districts alike benefit from having this powerful tool that that has Artificial Intelligence Optimization embedded in it. Because it is highly customizable, districts like Hoover City can tailor their experience to their individual needs.”

About Transfinder:
Founded in 1988 and headquartered in Schenectady, New York, Transfinder is a global leader in intelligent transportation systems, providing transportation management systems and services to municipalities, school districts and adult care facilities. Transfinder, has been on Inc. magazine “fastest-growing company” list for 12 years. The software and hardware company has received numerous awards, including Best Software, Best Hardware and Best Safety Technology. In addition, Transfinder has repeatedly won Best Place to Work, Top Workplace and Best Companies to Work for accolades. Transfinder develops and supports routing and scheduling solutions for optimal transportation logistics. Transfinder also launched Patrolfinder policing technology to assist law enforcement. For more information, visit www.transfinder.com

The post Hoover City Schools (AL) Turns to Transfinder ‘Transfinder Checked Every Box For Us’ appeared first on School Transportation News.

REDWOOD CITY, Calif. — Zūm, the leader in modern school transportation, today was named to the 2025 CNBC Disruptor 50, an annual list honoring 50 game-changing private companies using breakthrough technology to transform industries. This is the second year in a row (and third year overall) that Zum has been recognized by CNBC.

“Zum is proud to lead this new era of student transportation with increased safety and reliability, and improved grid resilience for families and communities across the country,” said Ritu Narayan, Founder and CEO at Zum. “We are honored to once again be part of CNBC’s Disruptor 50 alongside other incredible companies that are making an impact through innovation.”

Zum unifies parents, students, school administrators and drivers on a single personalized technology platform, enabling never-before achieved levels of visibility and data-backed accountability. Through the Zum app, parents can track their child’s ride to and from school in real time, see a profile of their child’s bus driver and be notified of their child’s pickup or dropoff status. Zum also allows administrators to optimize routes and provides staff with real-time data and performance reports.

In 2024, Zum launched the nation’s first fully electrified school bus fleet in Oakland, California. The 74-bus Oakland fleet is also equipped with groundbreaking vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology, enabling the buses to return energy to the local grid at scale and improve grid resilience during times of peak demand.

Zum currently serves thousands of schools across 14 states, including districts in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Oakland; Boston; Seattle; Spokane; Nashville; Omaha; Kansas City, Mo.; Howard County, Md.; and more.

The full 2025 CNBC Disruptor 50 list can be viewed at cnbc.com/disruptors.

To learn more about how Zum is working with thousands of schools across the nation to modernize student transportation, visit Zum’s website.

About Zūm

Zum is a modern transportation solution transforming school transportation, the largest mass transit system in the U.S. Today, the company provides turnkey modern transportation solutions to school districts in California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Missouri, Nebraska, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, Utah, and Virginia, and is expanding rapidly nationwide. Recognized globally for its innovative transportation and energy as a service platform, Zum has been featured among Fast Company’s World Changing Ideas, CNBC Disruptor 50, CNBC Changemakers, World Economic Forum and Financial Times’ Fastest Growing Companies. Learn more about Zum at www.ridezum.com.

The post CNBC Names Zum to Its Disruptor 50 List for 2025 appeared first on School Transportation News.

AUBURN, Calif. – InterMotive Vehicle Controls, a leading manufacturer of electronic control systems, announces a new safety solution designed to protect students by alerting nearby drivers as the bus approaches a stop. By increasing the bus’s visibility, School Bus Flasher helps to indicate that children are exiting the vehicle, and crossing may occur.

The School Bus Flasher controls the operation of key safety features, including the amber warning lights, red stop lights, the stop arm and crossing arm. It functions as a stand-alone system but can be seamlessly integrated with InterMotive’s FlexTech product, a customizable vehicle electrical load control system.

Installation is made easy with simple plug and play connections, which eliminates the cutting of OEM factory wiring.

For more details, contact Marc Ellison, LGS Group VP of Sales and Marketing, at 530-368-9193 or go online at https://intermotive.net/transit-mobility-3/#sbf.

InterMotive Vehicle Controls provides commercial safety and performance optimization products. Our plug and play electronic control systems leverage a vehicle’s own data networks to enhance its functions in new ways. We specialize in custom solutions for law enforcement, ambulance, fire truck, work truck, transit/paratransit, school bus, RV and personal-use mobility industries. To learn more, call 800-969-6080 or visit www.intermotive.net.

The post New InterMotive School Bus Product Helps Keep Students Safe at Stops appeared first on School Transportation News.

CINCINNATI, Ohio- First Student, setting the standard for innovation in school transportation, has completed its biggest school year ever, further advancing student safety and experience through technology, electrification and specialized services. The company is transforming the way school districts, families and school bus drivers experience student transportation.

First Student transported 5.5 million students daily across 44 states and 8 Canadian provinces, covering more than 525 million miles. With a focus on safety, experience, innovation and sustainability, the company is committed to supporting districts and families with a dependable, forward-thinking transportation experience.

First Student launched HALO, the proprietary technology platform that brings together every aspect of school transportation, including routing, navigation, hiring, training, safety, maintenance, and electric vehicle (EV) charging. HALO’s groundbreaking impact has earned First Student a place on Fast Company’s prestigious list of the World’s Most Innovative Companies of 2025, reinforcing the company’s leadership in transforming the industry through proven technology and real-world results.

“This school year, we continued to live out our values by setting the highest standards for student transportation,” said First Student CEO and President John Kenning. “With more than one billion student rides completed and the launch of HALO, we continue to demonstrate our commitment to our values of safety, innovation and student service. These principles guide everything we do as we deliver unmatched care and the safest possible ride to school for every student we serve.”

First Student’s alternative transportation solution, First Alt, experienced significant growth. Over the past year, First Alt increased its customer base by 105%, expanded its presence in states by 62%, and grew the number of trips completed by 94%. First Alt provides safe, reliable and flexible transportation for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), those experiencing homelessness, out-of-district students, and hard-to-serve trips. The program utilizes a dedicated network of vetted drivers and small-capacity vehicles to provide districts with greater flexibility, reducing costs, and freeing up resources for higher-capacity routes. First Alt’s success in helping districts manage complex transportation needs earned First Student the Forrester Technology Strategy Impact Award for North America in 2024.

First Student’s First Serves program achieved a 27% reduction in disruptive incidents year-over-year, setting a new benchmark for supporting students with special needs on the school bus. Developed in collaboration with experts in special education and student behavior, First Serves equips drivers and onboard staff with specialized training and real-time monitoring tools, creating a safer, more positive transportation experience for every student. The program’s success was recognized with the T-Mobile Innovation in Customer Experience Award, reinforcing First Student’s leadership in delivering exceptional service and improving the school transportation experience.

First Student also introduced Fleet Management and Maintenance Services through its First Services division as part of its expanding suite of transportation solutions. These offerings provide school districts with flexible, cost-effective options to maintain and modernize transportation fleets. With a network of over 1,250 ASE-certified technicians who maintain more than 45,000 vehicles, First Student ensures optimal fleet performance and safety. Districts can choose to have vehicles serviced at their facilities or one of First Student’s more than 100 ASE Blue Seal Certified shops across North America. Additionally, the Fleet as a Service program offers tailored solutions, including vehicle leasing, procurement and comprehensive fleet management, which allows districts to upgrade fleets without significant capital investment, enabling them to focus more on educational outcomes while ensuring students have safe and reliable transportation.

First Student’s proprietary above-ground EV charging infrastructure solution, First Charge, is transforming how fleet operators electrify vehicles. The modular above-ground EV charging solution is designed to simplify and accelerate the transition to electric fleets by eliminating costly and time-consuming infrastructure challenges. First Charge reduces installation time and cost supports scalable fleet growth and enables organizations to adopt electric vehicles efficiently and affordably without the need for digging, trenching, or permanent construction.

As a result of First Charge, First Student has made significant progress toward its goal of converting 30,000 diesel school buses to electric by 2035. Its fleet of electric school buses surpassed seven million miles driven, reinforcing the company’s dedication to providing safer, healthier, and more sustainable student transportation.

Already delivering tangible results, First Charge has been recognized with some of the industry’s highest honors, including the Edison Award for Scalable Clean Transportation Energy, the American Business Awards Stevie Award for Product Innovation, the Green Product of the Year by the 2024 BIG Awards for Business, and a place on Fast Company’s prestigious list of the World’s Most Innovative Companies.

About First Student:
As the leading provider of K-12 transportation solutions, First Student ensures the safest and most reliable ride to school each day for 5.5 million students across North America’s communities. With a team of highly trained drivers, the company is on track to complete 1 billion student trips during the 2024-25 school year. Recognized as one of Fast Company’s 2025 Most Innovative Companies, First Student delivers a wide range of essential services, including home-to-school transportation, special needs transportation, fleet electrification, route optimization, maintenance and charter services. The company’s focus extends beyond logistics by creating a positive and welcoming environment for students on each of its 45,000 buses. By continuously enhancing the transportation experience for school districts and families, First Student helps ensure every child arrives at school ready to achieve their full potential.

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LOS ANGELES, Calif. -HopSkipDrive today announced a significant expansion in its ability to meet the transportation needs of all students, enabling schools and school districts to seamlessly and directly book rides for students needing wheelchair-accessible vehicles, Rider Assistants, and car seats. With this development, school districts around the country will be able to solve even more student transportation challenges through HopSkipDrive’s unmatched technology-driven safety approach and operational expertise, and can learn more with a sign-up here.

“All children, especially those with disabilities, deserve a safe, reliable ride in a vehicle that meets their specific needs with adults who are fully prepared to support them,” said Joanna McFarland, CEO and Co-Founder of HopSkipDrive. “Rising chronic absenteeism rates make clear that existing school transportation industry options leave behind students with unique needs.”

With more than 5 million rides across 95 million safe miles completed on its platform, HopSkipDrive continues to raise the bar for student transportation. The company supports over 600 school districts by supplementing yellow buses with a network of extensively vetted CareDrivers — local caregivers on wheels — through a care-centered transportation marketplace.

With the launch of these three new transportation offerings this fall, HopSkipDrive will provide schools and school districts with even more resources, all backed by rigorous safety standards and industry-leading Safe Ride TechnologyTM. Transportation teams can use HopSkipDrive’s ride management platform, RideIQ, to easily and simply book, track, and manage all rides in one place, and staff can get full visibility with Daily Queue, which provides a customized view for all HopSkipDrive rides for students at their school location.

Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicles and Rider Assistants

Following a successful pilot earlier this year, HopSkipDrive is expanding the availability of Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicle rides and Rider Assistants to all cities in which the company operates. These rides are fulfilled by CarePartners, local professionals who undergo HopSkipDrive’s rigorous and comprehensive certification process, including name- and fingerprint-based background checks, clearing child abuse and neglect screenings where available, and enrolling in continuous criminal monitoring. Like all CareDrivers, they complete HopSkipDrive onboarding and a virtual orientation course. CarePartner drivers for Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicle rides also undergo driving record screens, vehicle inspections, and more.

To meet the needs of students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and those who thrive most when an additional adult is in the vehicle, HopSkipDrive offers a Rider Assistant for schools to book to join the CareDriver or CarePartner driver on the ride. The Rider Assistant will provide informed and compassionate support for the rider when needed.

HopSkipDrive continues to lead in forward-thinking safety measures by directly managing driver and Rider Assistant vetting, onboarding, and compliance. This unique approach sets HopSkipDrive apart in the student transportation industry, offering schools valuable features such as the Safe Ride Support system and enhanced Must Be Met process to support the development of new rider services all delivered with the company’s signature tracking and notification systems.

Car Seat Program

In select cities, schools and school districts can select HopSkipDrive’s car seat program for students whose height and weight, typically between the ages of four to six, require a car seat. CareDrivers can only opt in to fulfill these rides after completing comprehensive car seat safety education and using only the forward-facing car seat model approved by HopSkipDrive and Safe Kids Worldwide, the leading organization for childhood injury prevention.

HopSkipDrive collaborated with the industry’s leading child safety experts to design and develop the safest possible ride experience. Britney Lombard, who has spent more than a decade as a Safe Kids Worldwide certified Child Passenger Safety Instructor and performed thousands of car seat checks during her tenure, now leads HopSkipDrive’s car seat program. The HopSkipDrive Safety Advisory Council, composed of six leading experts in transportation safety, also played a key role in advising the development of the car seat program to confirm protocols meet the highest standards in the industry.

Compliance is a core principle of the car seat program. Ahead of the implementation of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s new safety standards, HopSkipDrive proactively selected a car seat model that goes above and beyond these requirements in consultation with the company’s expert advisors.

Safety Leadership, Including In-Ride Recording

HopSkipDrive continues to invest in leading the industry in safety with over 50 products, features, and initiatives woven throughout the ride experience. Over the past year, the company announced nearly a dozen new safety initiatives, including offering in-ride cameras through Safe Ride InSight.

Schools and school districts can request dashcam recording for rides with CareDrivers who have installed SafeRide InSight, which combines visual monitoring with audio recording. HopSkipDrive uses this technology along with advanced telematics to create a solution that’s unmatched in the student transportation industry. First piloted in Arizona and Colorado, the company is continuing to scale this technology to additional markets over the coming months.

Learn more about HopSkipDrive at hopskipdrive.com.

About HopSkipDrive
HopSkipDrive is a technology company that solves complex transportation challenges where there is a heightened need for safety, access, and care. HopSkipDrive is modernizing the $30 billion school transportation industry through two core solutions: a care-centered transportation marketplace and industry-leading transportation intelligence platform, RouteWise AI. HopSkipDrive’s marketplace supplements school buses and existing transportation options by connecting kids to highly vetted caregivers on wheels, such as grandparents, babysitters, and nurses in local communities. RouteWise AI helps schools and districts address critical challenges, including budget cuts, bus driver shortages, and reaching climate goals. HopSkipDrive has supported over 10,000 schools across 17 states, with over 600 school district partners. More than 5 million rides over 95 million miles have been completed through HopSkipDrive since the company was founded in 2014 by three working mothers.

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Amid a stunning financial turnaround over the found its leader to succeed Phil Horlock as both president and CEO. Personal reasons forced Blue Bird to go in a different direction last fall after Britton Smith unceremoniously resigned. But the company didn’t have to look far for the best candidate to step up and into the position.

Wyskiel had spent the previous two decades leading Magna International, the last five years as global president of the manufacturer’s seating division. But he knows school buses intimately. He came to Magna over 15 years ago from Canadian Blue Bird Coach, where he was general manager of Type A and Type C school bus body and assembly production.

“John’s deep and varied expertise in operational excellence and manufacturing leadership makes him an ideal fit for this role at this time,” Doug Grimm, chairman of Blue Bird, said when Wyskiel’s name was announced in January. “His proven track record will be invaluable as we expand our footprint and improve our operational processes to support our customers.”

School Transportation News caught up with Wyskiel shortly after he started on Feb. 17 to discuss the company’s evolution as it prepares to celebrate its 100th birthday in 2027, the same year the industry is poised to meet the latest federal emissions standards that were still under review by the new Trump administration EPA. Editor’s note Wyskiel declined to comment on tariff impacts, referring instead to a previous statement made by Horlock in January that Blue Bird would pass along any additional manufacturing costs to customers.

STN: How has Blue Bird changed since you were last mpart of the company 20 years ago?

Wyskiel: Of course, the company is publicly traded today, and it has been successful financially. However, at its core, the DNA of this century-old American company has not changed. There is a strong sense of pride within Blue Bird reflecting a company culture that deeply cares about people. The talent within the company has continued to expand over the years in all functional areas. Operationally, you can see a much greater focus on metrics and key performance indicators, which has enabled Blue Bird to become very focused and to make data-based decisions. From a product perspective, our rich history of innovations [are] on full display, particularly around alternative powertrain offerings. All of these developments have turned Blue Bird into a high performance business and strengthened its iconic brand.

STN: How would you describe your leadership style? What is your strategic vision for Blue Bird?

Wyskiel: I am a pretty engaged operator, and I believe people work best in an environment which fosters empowerment and accountability. Plus, when there is an issue, there is no substitute for “go see.” Whether it’s on the shop floor, at a dealer or at a customer, there is no substitution. I have returned to Blue Bird after a 20-year hiatus only a few weeks ago [at interview time]. Therefore, it’s a little early to talk strategy in specifics just yet. But I think the theme will be to shift to a long-term view for our customers, dealers, team members and investors. This means investing in facilities, our products and expanding into adjacent markets where we can. This great company has been around for almost 100 years, and my objective is to set it up for success for decades to come.

STN: Blue Bird currently offers more fuel choices than any other school bus manufacturer. Why is this important especially in the current political environment?

Wyskiel: Blue Bird offers the widest powertrain portfolio in the markets diesel, gasoline, propane and, of course, electric. We believe there is no one answer for customers. They want choice for their districts. A broad product portfolio allows them to tailor the value proposition to their specific needs. It could be total cost of operation, overall durability, ease of refueling, or the advantages of zero emissions. And if you look at the current political environment, it is just a benefit to have the widest offering as we cover every area in the market regardless of where legislation ends up. Blue Bird undoubtedly has the broadest offering, our success in the marketplace validates our strategy.

Moving forward, I do hope to see a more predictable regulatory environment for our industry. Manufacturers need to plan years in advance and commit to product development and investment. So, directional stability is not simply helpful, it is essential. I think the move to zero emissions will continue to advance longer term, it just may take longer to get there. In the school bus market, it makes so much sense. The duty cycle fits electrification and charging, range is not an issue since school district routes are normally shorter, and zero emissions advances student health and performance.

STN: What is Blue Bird doing to strengthen the long-term health of the EPA’s Clean School Bus Program?

Wyskiel: The 2022 Clean School Bus Rebate Program is part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides a total of $5 billion over five years for clean school bus transportation. To date, the EPA has awarded almost $3 billion to fund approximately 9,000 school bus replacements, approximately 95 percent of which are zero-emission, battery-electric. Funding has been awarded to more than 1,300 school districts in nearly all 50 states and Washington, D.C.

There is no question the program had an overwhelmingly positive impact on children, communities and American manufacturing, bringing invaluable opportunities to school districts to transition their fleets to zero-emission school buses. Communities across the country have benefited from the reduction in diesel tailpipe emissions that can negatively impact student and community health. As the leader in low- and zero-emission school buses, we have communicated and promoted the benefit at all levels of government.

STN: Can you update us on the status of standard lap/shoulder seatbelts and other safety technology like driver airbags?

Wyskiel: Blue Bird is recognized as a technology leader and innovator of school buses since its founding in 1927. Our dedicated team designs and manufactures school buses with a singular focus on safety, reliability and durability. School buses carry the most precious cargo in the world, 25 million children twice a day, making them the most trusted mode of student transportation.

Blue Bird made lap/shoulder belts standard on its buses late last year and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. Similarly, we will introduce airbags protecting drivers this fall. It’s a testimony to Blue Bird, whose school buses are designed, not adapted to the market, and whose focus on safety has been industry leading. If you could fast forward a decade, we will probably look back and wonder how school transportation didn’t include seatbelts and airbags all along. I am proud that Blue Bird has taken the lead role in this area.

STN: Thank you.

Editor’s Note: As reprinted in the May 2025 issue of School Transportation News.

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Related: (STN Podcast E259) Feel the Passion: Debates on Wi-Fi, Technology, Alternative Transportation & Safety
Related: Blue Bird Showcases Zero- and Low-Emission Commercial Vehicle Platforms at 2025 Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo
Related: Q&A: Back to School with New NAPT Executive Director McGee-Hewitt
Related: (STN Podcast E212) On the Horizon: Technology Showcases & Clean Bus Discussions at ACT Expo

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SCHENECTADY, N.Y. and AUSTIN, Texas– Transfinder Corporation is pleased to announce Wayside Schools in Texas has selected Transfinder’s award-winning routing solution Routefinder PLUS to create the safest and most efficient routes for its students.

Located in the Austin, Wayside has about 1,651 students attending three elementary schools, one middle school and one high school.

In addition to PLUS, Wayside purchased Studentfinder and Viewfinder, which gives users a bird’s eye view of the district’s transportation operation.

Transfinder President and CEO Antonio Civitella welcomed Wayside Schools to the Transfinder family.

“We are so happy to have Wayside as a client.” Civitella said. “Large and small districts alike benefit from having this powerful tool that that has Artificial Intelligence Optimization embedded in it. Because it is highly customizable, districts like Wayside can tailor their experience to their individual needs.”

About Transfinder:
Founded in 1988 and headquartered in Schenectady, New York, Transfinder is a national leader in intelligent transportation systems, providing transportation management systems and services to municipalities, school districts and adult care facilities. Transfinder, has been on Inc. magazine “fastest-growing company” list for 12 years. The software and hardware company has received numerous awards, including Best Software, Best Hardware and Best Safety Technology. In addition, Transfinder has repeatedly won Best Place to Work, Top Workplace and Best Companies to Work for accolades. Transfinder develops and supports routing and scheduling solutions for optimal transportation logistics. Transfinder also launched Patrolfinder policing technology to assist law enforcement. For more information, visit www.transfinder.com

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GUILDERLAND, N.Y. — The New York School Bus Contractors Association (NYSBCA) held its 49th Annual School Bus Driver Safety Competition—commonly known as the “Roadeo”—on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Rockland Lake State Park. This year marked the event’s return after a five-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The school bus industry gave this event a name as unique as the professionals it celebrates taking the word “rodeo” and transforming it into “Roadeo” to reflect the road-based skills essential to school bus safety. This special title captures the spirit of the event: a high-energy, friendly competition that showcases the knowledge, precision, and dedication of New York’s top school bus drivers.

Every day, more than 2 million students across New York State rely on the commitment and expertise of school bus drivers to get to and from school safely. The Roadeo offers these essential professionals a valuable opportunity to demonstrate their skills and knowledge in a spirited, yet friendly, competition focused on excellence in student transportation safety.

“This event was a huge success, full of energy and pride,” said Thomas Smith, NYSBCA Board President. “It was great to see the camaraderie and to offer our drivers a platform to showcase their expertise. School bus drivers are vital members of the workforce, and this competition honors the critical role they play in safely transporting students each day.”

National Representation
The first-place winners from each category will go on to represent New York at the National School Transportation Association’s School Bus Driver International Safety Competition, scheduled for June 28, 2025, at the Austin Marriott Downtown – Hays CISD in Austin, Texas. We wish them the best of luck on the national stage!

Congratulations to the 2025 NYSBCA Safety Competition Winners:

Photos and a highlight video are available at nysbca.com/roadeo.

Type A School Bus (Van)
1st Place: Marlon Forrester, WE Transport
2nd Place: James Baumer, Beacon Mobility
3rd Place: Charmain Kanhai Noronha, Suffolk Transportation Service, Inc.
4th Place: Lynn Kavanagh, Chestnut Ridge Transportation
5th Place: Sanjay Brooks, Chappaqua Transportation

Type C School Bus (Conventional)
1st Place: Manuel Claudio, Educational Bus Transportation
2nd Place: James Breen, Educational Bus Transportation
3rd Place: Mary Myslim, Chappaqua Transportation
4th Place: Alfred Sanchez, First Student, Inc.
5th Place: Johnatan Rojas, Chappaqua Transportation

Type D School Bus (Transit)
1st Place: Rafael Vicencio Ortega, Chestnut Ridge Transportation
2nd Place: Wilfredo Ramos, Monroe-Woodbury CSD
3rd Place: Dawn Elsaesser, Monroe-Woodbury CSD

Rookie Award
Manuel Claudio, Educational Bus Transportation

Acknowledgments
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers and judges whose time, effort, and support made this event possible. Your dedication plays a crucial role in promoting school bus safety and creating a meaningful experience for our drivers.

Special thanks to Seth Corwin (Chappaqua Transportation, Inc.), James Rogan (The Trans Group, LLC), and Frank Klein (Suffolk Transportation Service, Inc.) for your dedicated participation in the weekly Roadeo planning meetings and for your support with course setup and facilitation. We also extend our sincere appreciation to Sean Corr (The Trans Group, LLC) for supplying the essential equipment that made the event possible. Your collective efforts were instrumental to the success of this year’s competition.

We also gratefully acknowledge our presenting sponsor, BusPatrol, and contributing sponsors Bird Bus Sales & Service, Leonard Bus Sales, Inc., Nesco Bus and Truck Sales, Inc., and Goosetown Communications. Your support brings this important event to life.

About: The New York School Bus Contractors Association represents the private school bus transportation industry that provides transportation services to 85% of the school districts in New York. School bus contractors transport more than half of all the children who ride a school bus to and from school each day. The association’s mission is to promote safe, reliable, and cost-effective student transportation services for New York’s school children. For more information, please visit: www.nysbca.com

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AVON, Ohio – The commercial vehicle landscape has transformed dramatically since 1930, when the Bendix-Westinghouse Automotive Air Brake Company opened its doors. Yet through it all, the mission of the company, now known as Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC (Bendix), has remained strikingly consistent: deliver the technologies, services, value, and support that help keep fleets safe, vehicles on the road, and communities strong.

Now, as Bendix marks its 95th anniversary, the company reflects not only on a legacy of engineering leadership, but also on the people, partnerships, and purpose-driven values that continue to shape its future.

“Bendix has always stood at the intersection of innovation and responsibility,” said Piotr Sroka, Bendix president, chief executive officer, and chief operating officer. “Our products help fleets navigate today’s roadways, and our workforce powers solutions for tomorrow. Whether it’s next-generation braking technologies, energy efficiency, or educational partnerships, our story has been one of constant progress and we’re honored to celebrate 95 years with so many colleagues, customers, and community partners along the way.”

Founded in 1930 and originally based in Wilmerding, Pennsylvania, Bendix has played a central role in shaping commercial vehicle safety across North America. The company moved its headquarters to Northeast Ohio in 1941, where it remains today. Since 2002, Bendix has operated as a proud part of Munich, Germany-based Knorr-Bremse – the global leader in braking systems for rail and commercial vehicles. Since becoming a part of Knorr-Bremse, the company has grown threefold and employs a workforce of over 3,600 across North America.

A Legacy of Safety
For nearly a century, Bendix has helped shape commercial vehicle safety in North America. From the first air brake valves to today’s advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), Bendix technologies have evolved in step with – and very often ahead of – industry needs.

That forward momentum continues with two of the company’s most important recent innovations: Global Scalable Brake Control (GSBC®) and Global Scalable Air Treatment (GSAT®). Built on a modular global architecture, GSBC and GSAT are designed to support the transition to electric and highly automated vehicles while delivering immediate value in today’s market.

The two technologies are being produced at Bendix’s new Plant 4 in its Acuña, Mexico, operation. A state-of-the-art, 185,000 square-foot facility equipped with advanced automation and strict environmental controls, Plant 4 features some of the most sophisticated manufacturing processes in the Bendix network.

“GSBC and GSAT represent the best of our approach representing strong global collaboration and combining decades of proven product knowledge,” Sroka said. “And as we build them on lines developed from a global Knorr-Bremse design, we’re strengthening our ability to serve both North American and international markets.”

As the commercial vehicle market moves toward broader adoption of electronic braking systems (EBS), Bendix continues to develop platform-ready solutions that support smoother, more responsive braking and enable the next generation of safety and automation capabilities.

Building for the Future
Bendix’s ability to innovate is deeply rooted in the strength and diversity of its manufacturing and engineering footprint. Across its growing network of North American operations, the company continues to invest in advanced capabilities, sustainable infrastructure, and high-performing teams.

Acuña, Mexico – With three manufacturing plants and a logistics center, Acuña is one of the largest and most complex operations in the Knorr-Bremse global network. The site produces Bendix® air dryers, antilock braking systems (ABS), compressors, actuators, valves, and other technologies – and now houses the production of the company’s next-generation GSBC and GSAT platforms.

Avon, Ohio – The company’s North American headquarters, opened in late 2021, is home to engineering, R&D, sales, marketing, and business functions. The LEED Silver-certified facility reflects Bendix’s commitment to collaboration, flexibility, and sustainable design.

Bowling Green, Kentucky – A center of excellence for wheel-end technologies, the Bowling Green operation manufactures the Bendix ADB22X air disc brake and other foundation brake components. It spans over 430,000 square feet and is recognized for its quality and workplace safety performance.

Huntington, Indiana – Bendix’s Indiana site has evolved into a multifaceted campus, supporting manufacturing, remanufacturing, modules, electronics assembly, and distribution. A major upgrade to its primary state-of-the-art distribution center is underway, with completion expected in late 2025. The site also recently centralized its vibration damper production, moves that improve material flow, increase capacity, and prepare for future automation and expansion.

Monterrey, Mexico – The Bendix Technical Center in Monterrey is a growing research and development hub focused on ADAS technologies, software, and customer engineering support. The site also serves as one of four strategically placed global support centers for Knorr-Bremse in areas such as finance and human resources to help increase overall productivity and efficiency.

Progress Through Sustainability

Sustainability is more than a priority at Bendix – it’s a strategic emphasis. In 2024, the company:

·Diverted over 99% of waste from landfills

·Achieved Zero Waste to Landfill certification at nine locations plus the Avon HQ

·Reduced energy use by more than 17.6 million kilowatt-hours since 2020

·Expanded its solar energy portfolio to include four arrays across Huntington and Acuña

·Surpassed its U.S. Department of Energy Better Climate Challenge goal six years ahead of schedule

These efforts build on a long-standing commitment to environmental responsibility. Since first launching its waste and energy reduction programs more than a decade ago, Bendix has pursued a deliberate strategy to reduce its environmental footprint while aligning with evolving industry expectations and global sustainability frameworks.

“Across every Bendix location, our teams are finding new ways to cut emissions, reduce energy use, and close waste loops,” said Maria Gutierrez, senior director, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG). “These aren’t abstract goals, they’re concrete actions driven by employee commitment and backed by measurable results.”

From plastic-free cafeterias to Green Teams and Earth Day events, Bendix is embedding sustainability into the day-to-day rhythm of its operations. EV charging, solar power, composting, and LEED principles are just a few of the ways Bendix is translating values into progress.

A Deep Commitment to Community

Bendix’s impact extends far beyond factory walls. In 2024, the company and its employees:

·Contributed more than 11,000 volunteer hours

·Donated over $1 million in grants, sponsorships, and matching funds

·Supported nearly 500 projects through the employee-led Get Involved! grant program

·Partnered with Knorr-Bremse Global Care North America (KBGCNA) – the North American philanthropic arm of Knorr Bremse – to provide long-term community support

Guided by a focus on education, environment, health, and social cohesion, Bendix Local Care teams supported initiatives ranging from STEM camps in Acuña and Monterrey to Habitat for Humanity home builds in Huntington and Avon. Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) – such as Women@Bendix; Bendix Patriots, supporting active and retired military employees and family members; and EnAbles, an ERG focused on increasing awareness and meeting the needs of disabled employees and caregivers of the disabled/aged through education and resources, organized fundraising events, donation drives, and community programs to expand impact even more.

Over the last half-decade, total volunteer engagement has increased by more than 30%, reflecting a deepening culture of service throughout the organization. These activities are supported by employee-led teams, dedicated program funding, and long-term partnerships with local organizations.

“Service is at the heart of who we are,” Gutierrez said. “Whether mentoring students, planting community gardens, or rolling up sleeves at food banks, our employees lead by example – and that makes all the difference.”

Looking Ahead to 100 Years and Beyond

As Bendix turns 95, the path forward is clear: continue advancing technologies that help make roads safer and support fleet performance; and operate more sustainably as a company.

The company’s role within Knorr-Bremse also strengthens its ability to transfer knowledge, standardize advanced technologies, and deliver scalable solutions that meet diverse market requirements.

Through close collaboration with OEMs, fleets, suppliers, and Knorr-Bremse, Bendix remains positioned to help lead the transformation of the industry.

“We’re exceptionally proud of what we’ve built over 95 years,” Sroka said. “But what drives us is the future – and the chance to help shape it. That means listening to our customers, investing in our people, strengthening our communities, and building on a legacy that’s just getting started.”

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

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AKRON, Ohio – Beacon Mobility, a national leader in student transportation services, today announced the official launch of Beacon Connect, the industry’s first fully integrated communications platform designed specifically for school transportation professionals. The new platform marks a significant step forward in improving transparency, safety, and coordination across districts, families, and transportation providers.

Beacon Connect was developed by Beacon Mobility’s technology team in response to long-standing communication challenges in the student transportation space. Drawing from cross-industry practices and ongoing user feedback, the platform provides a streamlined, user-centric experience for families, drivers, dispatchers, and school officials.

“Beacon Connect reflects our commitment to improving the daily transportation experience for the communities we serve,” said Judith Crawford, CEO of Beacon Mobility. “By focusing on accessibility, real-time communication, and operational insight, this platform helps schools and families stay connected and informed.”

VIDEO: Learn More About Beacon Connect

Key Features of Beacon Connect:

Live and Historical Vehicle Tracking
The newest and most anticipated feature, this tool gives families and school staff real-time visibility into bus locations during active routes. Parents can view exactly where their child’s bus is at any moment, helping reduce uncertainty and improve peace of mind. Historical trip data also supports operational reviews and allows schools to track past bus activity for greater accountability.

Beacon Connect Family App
Offers parents an intuitive interface with real-time alerts and seamless trip tracking.

Digital Routing Requests
Enables families to submit route changes digitally, improving efficiency and responsiveness.

Secure Video Access
Allows for request-based access to onboard video recordings to support safety and incident review.

Incident Reporting & Safety Tools
Drivers can quickly log issues while dispatchers receive live fleet updates to improve awareness and response times.

Two-Way Communication
Real-time messaging between dispatch, drivers, and school staff improves coordination and reliability.

Beacon Connect has already earned support from school districts currently utilizing the technology, including the Ashburnham-Westminster Regional School District in Massachusetts:

“The new online portal for communication works very well for office referrals and video requests,” said Kathleen Taylor, Principal, Ashburnham – Westminster Regional School District. “The turn around this year for video requests has been greatly improved.”

“Beacon Connect has improved the timeliness of Incident Reports and Routing Requests on the bus side.” Heather Dupont, Executive Assistant to the Director of Pupil Services Ashburnham – Westminster Regional School District.

Beacon Connect was developed under the leadership of Chief Technology Officer Gaurav Sharda and a multidisciplinary team committed to advancing innovation in mobility services. “We wanted to build more than just a technology product,” said Sharda. “We wanted a platform that reflects the values and needs of the communities we serve.”

The platform sets a new standard for communication in student transportation and reinforces Beacon Mobility’s position as a forward-looking technology partner for school districts nationwide.

About Beacon Mobility: Beacon Mobility is a growing family of transportation companies committed to serving the diverse needs of their customers. Now operating 28 local brands in 26 states, their experienced, compassionate, and dedicated team takes pride in their ability to create customized, mobility-based solutions that empower people to get where they need to go. To learn more, visit: https://gobeacon.com/

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Going green is on the radar for many student transportation fleets, but choosing what fuel to use is not always a simple decision. Read this month’s issue for articles on expectations and benefits of green energy options, the knowledge foundation needed for routing efficiency, electric school bus legislation in New York and the news from the 17th National Congress on School Transportation.

Also find the STN EXPO Reno Preview, complete with agenda topics, speaker information, unique event descriptions and trade show exhibitors.

Read the full June 2025 issue.

Features

Peeling Back the Routing Layers
Routing software is the brain of a transportation operation, but human routers are the heart that keep student safe to and from school. How to route requires a strong knowledge base along with many other considerations.

Green Expectations
STN EXPO East near Charlotte, North Carolina featured presentations from various OEMs about their latest and greatest offerings in the green bus space.

Fuel Choices Are Not One-Dimensional
Choosing the right fuel for your school district is no simple task, especially with all the options and funding available. District leaders weigh in on why they went in a certain direction.

Coming Clean
Going green is good for the environment, proving to have beneficial implications for student riders, bus drivers and the surrounding communities.

Special Reports

May, Should, Shall?
School Transportation News was on site in Iowa at the 17th National Congress on School Transportation. Learn some of the conversations held as the industry readies for an update the National School Transportation Specifications and Procedures.

Q&A: Going On an Electric RIDE With Patrick Duan
Patrick Duan, co-CEO of the electric school bus manufacturer, provides insights into top trends such as federal funding, impending tariffs and battery technology.

STN EXPO Reno Preview
STN EXPO West returns to Reno, Nevada for “Content, Community and Commerce.” Prepare for next month’s conference, trade show and networking events. You won’t want to miss any of the action.

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Editor’s Take by Ryan Gray
New York State of Charge

Publisher’s Corner by Tony Corpin
Tech-Forward Approach to Staffing

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