Wisconsin Teen Injured After Being Struck by Pickup While Boarding School Bus

By: Merari Acevedo

23 December 2025 at 20:22

A 15-year-old was taken to a medical facility with minor injuries after being struck by a pickup truck while crossing the highway on their way to a school bus Monday morning, reported WBAY News.

According to the news report, deputies and EMS personnel responded to the incident around 7:23 a.m. Authorities said the school bus was stopped in the northbound lane with its flashing lights activated and stop arm extended, when the teen attempted was crossing the highway.

Investigators determined the teen was hit by a 2018 Ford F-150 traveling southbound. The truck was reportedly driven by a 59-year-old man from the Village of St. Nazianz.

The teen sustained minor injuries and was transported to a medical facility for treatment. A second bus from the Valders Bus Company was dispatched to the scene to transport the remaining students.

Police sited the pickup driver for failure to stop for a school bus and inattentive driving. The sheriff’s office said no additional details would be released. Officials used the incident as a reminder that children’s safety is a shared community responsibility, urging drivers to remain alert around school buses, obey stop requirements, slow down, watch for children in the roadway and at school bus stops, and exercise patience during school pickup and drop-off times.

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School Bus Driver Knits Beanies to Spread Warmth, Love in Oklahoma City

School Transportation News

By: Merari Acevedo

23 December 2025 at 17:00

As winter settles over Oklahoma City, one school bus driver warms students one hand-knitted beanie at a time.

Tina Hutcherson, 63, drives for the Putnam City School District and has become a beloved figure among her students for a simple but heartfelt mission: Ensuring no child goes without a warm hat during the cold months. Her journey in student transportation began long before she ever picked up knitting needles.

She told School Transportation News that she started as a school bus driver in 2004. She had to take a small break in 2009 to care for her son but returned as a driver in 2013.

The idea of making hats came from what she witnessed each winter on her route.

“I know how cold it gets in Oklahoma, and I see some children who may not have coats, hats, etc., to keep them warm,” Hutcherson said, adding that a recent blanket giveaway inspired her to expand her efforts. “I didn’t want anyone to feel left out, so I decided to make all the students a stocking cap as well.”

Her process quickly became a collaboration with the very kids she serves. Instead of choosing colors herself, Hutcherson invites her students to design their own.

“I draw a picture of a hat and give it to the students to color over the weekend,” she said. “They bring it back to me, and I use their drawings as the design and color guide. Many of the students know exactly what colors they want.”

The project has grown far beyond her original plan.

“I’ve made about 50 or more hats so far,” she told STN. “When my middle schoolers heard about the elementary students getting hats, they asked for some too. So, I gave them hats right before Thanksgiving break.”

In addition to beanies for both elementary and middle schoolers, Hutcherson has also crocheted backpacks for students and hats for local military veterans.

The joy her students express makes every hour of work worth it.

“The kids get excited knowing they’re getting hats that morning,” she said. One student proudly wears his hat every day and makes sure Hutcherson sees it when he steps on the bus. She also received a stack of handmade thank-you cards from her elementary riders; gestures she treasures deeply.

More than warmth, Hutcherson said she hopes the children feel the intention behind each stitch.

“I hope they know I made it with love,” she said. That love, she believes, is what keeps her going. “I just love giving crochet and knitted projects to people who I feel need a little extra love. It’s my favorite hobby, and I love to put a smile on their faces!”.

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2025 STN Magazine Top Articles

School Transportation News

By: Merari Acevedo

22 December 2025 at 20:31

The most read School Transportation News magazine articles in 2025 explored AI and other emerging technology, leadership, workforce development and evolving student transportation models.

Specific topics included illegal school bus passing prevention, routing optimization, artificial intelligence and future-focused fleet technology, to reflect a transportation industry actively adapting to new challenges and opportunities. At the same time, human-centered stories, highlighting leadership, recognition and professional growth continued to resonate strongly with readers.

Together, these articles underscore the industry’s dual focus on innovation and culture as transportation departments prepare for the future.

STN reports below on the top-viewed article from each monthly magazine issue in 2025, organized by publication month.

January – Atypical Student Transportation

This article examined nontraditional student transportation scenarios that fall outside standard home-to-school routes on school buses. It explored how districts are adapting to serve students with disabilities and special needs who need alternative schedules and specialized programs. The piece emphasized flexibility, collaboration and policy considerations required to safely and effectively manage atypical transportation models.

February – Combatting Illegal Passing with Awareness, Technology
Focusing on one of the most persistent safety threats in pupil transportation, this article addresses strategies to reduce illegal passing of stopped school buses. It highlighted the role of public awareness campaigns, stop-arm cameras, and enforcement partnerships, reinforcing the importance of both education and technology in protecting students at bus stops.

March – On the Block

Procurement and decision-making challenges faced by transportation departments, particularly as districts evaluate new vehicles, services and technologies, underscore the importance of planning, transparency and stakeholder input when making large-scale transportation investments.

April – Seeing Into the Future

One of the most-read magazine articles of the year looked at emerging AI trends shaping student transportation. Topics include predictive maintenance technologies, data-driven operations and forward-thinking approaches to safety and efficiency. The article encouraged readers to view innovation as a proactive tool rather than a reactive solution.

May – Q&A: Wyskiel Steers Blue Bird Toward Its Second Century

This Q&A featured leadership insights from Blue Bird President and CEO John Wyskiel, focusing on the company’s vision as it moves into its second century. The discussion touched on innovation, electrification, manufacturing priorities and the evolving needs of school districts.

June – Peeling Back the Routing Layers

Routing remains one of the most complex aspects of school transportation, and this article took a deep dive into the many variables that influence route design. From staffing shortages to bell times to special needs transportation, the piece highlighted how layered decision-making and technology tools can help districts improve efficiency and service reliability.

July – Leadership Perspectives on the Future of AI

This article examines how AI may shape the future of student transportation. Industry leaders share perspectives on potential applications, from routing and predictive maintenance to training and operations, while also addressing concerns around implementation, data, and workforce readiness.

August – 10 Years: Garage Stars

Celebrating a decade of recognizing excellence, this article highlights the critical role maintenance professionals play in student transportation. It honored the dedication, expertise and behind-the-scenes work of garage staff who keep fleets safe, reliable and road-ready every day.

September – Future-Focused Technology

This article explores technology solutions designed to support long-term transportation goals rather than short-term fixes. Topics included vehicle systems, software integration and tools that improve safety, accountability, and operational visibility for transportation departments.

October – Transportation Director Salaries by U.S. Region

Providing data-driven insight into compensation trends, this top-viewed article breaks down transportation director salaries by region across the contiguous U.S. It offers valuable benchmarking information amid ongoing workforce recruitment and retention challenges.

November – Rising Superstars

The most-viewed magazine article of 2025 spotlighted emerging leaders in the student transportation industry. By recognizing rising professionals making meaningful contributions, the article reflects the industry’s focus on mentorship, succession planning and cultivating the next generation of transportation leadership.

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Minnesota School Bus Driver Rescues Missing 4-Year-Old from Lake

School Transportation News

By: Merari Acevedo

18 December 2025 at 20:43

A Minnesota school bus driver saved a student from drowning and is being hailed a hero after rescuing a missing 4-year-old boy from Lake Owasso last month, reported ABC news.

According to the news report, Mebal Kaanyi drives for Schmitty & Sons Bus Co. and serves Roseville Area Schools. She was finishing her afternoon route on Nov. 25, when she noticed a young boy running down a hill toward the water.

“I see this little guy coming, running down the street,” Kaanyi told local news reporters. “He was crying and running. He was not dressed. He was in, I think, just his underwear and a short-sleeve shirt. He did not have a sweatshirt or shoes on him. It was cold that day.”

At the time, Kaanyi did not know the boy had been reported missing by his aunt, who had called 911 to alert authorities. Kaanyi described the tense moments as she chased the boy.

“When the kid went to the fence and touched the gate, and it just opened, that moment, my heart skipped,” she said, adding that the boy stepped into the lake and began struggling. “I’ve never swum in my entire life … I get goosebumps just looking at the water. I’m so afraid of water, but that day, I was determined to do anything possible to save that kid.”

According to the article, Kaanyi jumped into the lake and managed to grab the boy’s hand.

“Thank goodness. I got you,” she recalled saying as she carried him back to the safety of her bus and called dispatch.

A Life-saving Hero

When deputies from Ramsey County arrived at the scene, they reportedly found the child wrapped in towels and sitting safely on Kaanyi’s bus.

Ramsey County Sgt. Marson emphasized the significance of her actions and hailed her as a hero.

“She was integral in saving that child’s life,” he said. “Without her intervention, that child would’ve probably died in that water, just from exposure or maybe even drowning. She’s a hero, plain and simple.”

Kaanyi, however, remained humble about her bravery.

“This is what everybody should do,” she said. “We need to live in a society whereby we care for one another.” Authorities announced that Kaanyi will be officially recognized with a life-saving award for her quick thinking and courage.

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Former Arizona School Bus Driver Arrested on Child Molestation Charges

School Transportation News

By: Merari Acevedo

10 December 2025 at 20:15

A former school bus driver has been arrested and is facing multiple felony charges after investigators alleged he molested at least one child, reported Arizona Family.

Authorities say Charles Ellington, who worked for a school district northwest of the Valley, was taken into custody on Dec. 1 and booked into jail the following day. District leaders reported they were first notified of an active investigation on Sept. 3, at which time Ellington was immediately placed on administrative leave while the district cooperated fully with law enforcement.

Ellington received a notice of intent to terminate on Sept. 11, and his employment officially ended on Oct. 8. He had worked for the district since Aug. 26, 2021.

According to the news report, district officials said all identified victims are currently assisting investigators. They emphasized that Ellington had passed all required pre-employment and ongoing background checks, including maintaining a valid commercial driver’s license, a clean drug and alcohol testing history, and an active fingerprint clearance card through the Arizona Department of Public Safety.

“These processes involve rigorous, ongoing checks,” said the district via the news report. “The district receives daily notifications from DPS if any employee’s card is suspended or revoked, allowing us to act immediately.”

The specific details of the allegations have not been released. According to authorities, Ellington was booked on charges including molestation of a child, sexual conduct with a minor and failure to comply with a court order. The investigation remains ongoing.

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Tennessee School Bus Bursts Into Flames Moments After Children Evacuated

School Transportation News

By: Merari Acevedo

9 December 2025 at 22:35

A terrifying incident unfolded when a Dickson County School District bus burst into flames along Highway 49 East, forcing a quick evacuation of the children on board, reported WKRN .

The Dickson County Sheriff’s Office said the school bus driver noticed smoke coming from his dashboard Dec. 3 and immediately pulled into the lot of a gas station. Within moments of the evacuation, the bus became fully engulfed in flames.

The school bus driver is in his first year on the job and is being called a hero for saving the lives of the 38 students on board a the time.

“I was the first one to get off the bus because I was scared it was going to blow up,” said Asher Winters, a second-grade student at Charlotte Elementary School who was riding the bus, to local news reporters.

His younger sister, Penelope Winters, a first-grader at the same school, proudly told the reporters she “saved everyone because I told the bus driver it was happening.”

According to the news report, fire crews from the Harpeth Ridge Volunteer Fire Department responded swiftly and extinguished the blaze. Officials confirmed that no injuries were reported. Images taken after the fire reveal the charred shell of the vehicle, which authorities say is a total loss.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. The school bus was a spare as the driver’s normal bus was in the shop that day. A spokesman for the Tennessee Highway Patrol said the bus that caught fire had been inspected in August.

“Wednesday’s bus fire could have ended tragically, but it didn’t because of the bus driver,” added Maj. Travis Plotzer. “He saw danger, he acted fast, and he got every student off the bus before anyone got hurt. His quick thinking and being calm under pressure saved lives, without a doubt. What he did was brave and professional, and he did exactly what we’d hope for in a moment like that.”

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6-Year-Old Fatally Injured by Oklahoma City School Bus

School Transportation News

By: Merari Acevedo

8 December 2025 at 23:00

A 6-year-old boy was killed after being struck by an Oklahoma City Public Schools bus near his elementary campus, reported The Oklahoman News.

Authorities reportedly identified the child as Adrian Salgado, a first-grade student at Fillmore Elementary School. He died Dec. 4 at OU Health after being transported from the scene of the crash.

According to the news report, the incident occurred the previous day at 3:15 p.m., as Salgado and two friends were walking home from school. The children were heading east on the south side of SW 51st Street, when they approached Douglas Avenue. Investigators report that an OKCPS bus traveling in the same direction had stopped at a stop sign before attempting to turn south onto Douglas.

As the bus began its turn, two of the children stopped at the corner, but Salgado attempted to run across the street. The side of the bus struck him, knocking him to the ground, where he was run over by the rear wheels. Salgado was reportedly rushed to the Oklahoma University Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.

“Our thoughts are with the student’s family, loved ones, the first responders and our entire Fillmore community as we grieve this tremendous loss,” the district said via the report. OKCPS added that counselors and support staff will be available on campus to assist students and staff beginning Thursday.

The district also thanked first responders for their rapid actions and said it would work closely with law enforcement as the investigation continues.

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Pasco County Schools Rolls Out New Cash Incentives to Tackle School Bus Driver Shortage

School Transportation News

By: Merari Acevedo

5 December 2025 at 18:25

Facing an ongoing shortage of school bus drivers, Pasco County Schools in Florida is launching a new incentive program aimed at keeping routes covered and getting students to school on time, reported Bay News.

According to the news report, district officials say 49 of the county’s 297 school bus routes currently lack permanent drivers, resulting in some students arriving late to class. To help solve the issue, the district has approved quarterly bonuses designed to boost recruitment and retain current staff.

Beginning this quarter, drivers with strong attendance will receive a $500 bonus. Those who volunteer for designated high-need routes, often in more remote areas, will earn an additional $250 per quarter.

“Our goal is to ensure that every student gets to school on time so that learning can occur,” said Superintendent John Legg.

For veteran driver Lynn Zion-Weick, who came out of retirement four years ago after seeing an ad for the job, said the work is both meaningful and manageable.

“I’m pretty good with kids and I decided to give it a shot,” she said, adding that today’s buses drive “just like a nice car,” helping ease concerns from new recruits.

While she admits learning the engine components was the toughest part of training, she said the role has only grown more rewarding, especially since she now drives children whose grandparents she once attended school with.

With the driver shortage still pressing, the district is ramping up its hiring efforts. Pasco County Schools will host a school bus driver recruitment event on Dec. 11 and is hopeful the new bonuses will bring more applicants behind the wheel.

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South Carolina School Bus Driver Arrested, Charged with Solicitation of a Minor

School Transportation News

By: Merari Acevedo

4 December 2025 at 18:49

A Moncks Corner school bus driver is behind bars after being arrested in connection with an Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) investigation, reported Live 5 News.

Allan Bladorn, 39, was reportedly taken into custody Nov. 20, after Berkeley County investigators identified him as a suspect during an undercover online operation. The Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office arrested Bladorn and placed a hold on him until he was transferred to Chesterfield County the following day.

According to the news report, authorities confirmed that Bladorn was employed as a public-school bus driver with the Berkeley County School District at the time of his arrest. Investigators seized his cellphone, which will undergo forensic analysis as part of the ongoing case.

Bladorn is currently being held at the Chesterfield County Detention Center, where he awaits a bond hearing. The sheriff’s office stated that the investigation remains active, and that additional charges may be filed as evidence continues to be reviewed.

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Man Found Guilty of Killing Washington School Bus Driver

School Transportation News

By: Merari Acevedo

26 November 2025 at 09:00

Joshua Davis, 38, of Richland, has been found guilty of the 2021 murder of Pasco County school bus driver Richard Lenhart, reported AppleValley News.

Davis, who had reportedly pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity, faces a sentencing date that has not yet been set. His defense team indicated they plan to pursue an appeal immediately.

According to the news report, during the trial, experts for both the prosecution and defense agreed that Davis suffered from schizophrenia. However, they disagreed over whether he understood right from wrong at the time of the killing.

Lenhart, 72, had students on board the bus when Davis boarded the bus outside Longfellow Elementary School on Sept. 24, 2021. Davis reportedly asked if the bus was headed to Road 100. When Lenhart said no, Davis stabbed him multiple times before fleeing toward his vehicle. Authorities apprehended Davis near the scene shortly afterward.

According to the article, at least 35 students were on the bus during the attack, though none were physically harmed. Authorities have not identified a motive, and there is no known connection between Davis and Lenhart.

The Pasco School District honored Lenhart’s legacy in 2023 by opening the Richard L. Lenhart Transportation Center, which serves more than 200 buses for the Pasco and Finley school districts. Lenhart’s widow, Nancy, has championed House Bill 2133, known as the Richard Lenhart Act, which would make it a felony to disrupt the normal operation of a public-school bus or unlawfully board one. While the bill did not pass during the 2023–2024 legislative session, Nancy Lenhart expressed her determination to continue advocating for it.

“This bill is too important not to be made into a law,” she said via the report, urging lawmakers to protect school bus drivers and students.

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4-Year-Old Girl Killed After Being Struck by School Bus in New York

School Transportation News

By: Merari Acevedo

25 November 2025 at 15:43

A 4-year-old girl died on Nov. 17 after she was struck by a Panama Central School District bus in front of Milton J. Fletcher Elementary School.

Police and emergency crews were called to the intersection near the school at approximately 8:08 a.m. for reports of a child hit by a vehicle. Officers immediately administered first aid before the child was transported to UPMC Chautauqua, where she later succumbed to her injuries.

The Panama Central School District confirmed the bus was transporting one student to an out-of-district placement at the time of the incident. Neither the student nor the bus driver was injured. The student, Leanna Herrera, attended Jamestown Public Schools.

In a statement, Jamestown Public Schools Superintendent Kevin Whitaker expressed deep sorrow over the child’s death. “We are heartbroken by this devastating news, and our thoughts are with the student’s family and friends,” Whitaker said. “This is an unimaginable loss for the Fletcher community and for all of Jamestown Public Schools.”

The area around Fletcher Elementary is reportedly busy during morning drop-off hours as students walk to school or wait for buses. It remains unclear at this time exactly how the incident occurred, including whether the child was in a crosswalk or what circumstances led to the crash.

The Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office Accident Reconstruction Team and New York State Police are assisting Jamestown Police in the investigation. No charges have been filed, and authorities noted that determining contributing factors will take time.

The Panama Central School District also released a message to families expressing condolences and acknowledging the ongoing investigation, calling the crash a “truly tragic accident.”

At Fletcher Elementary, the district has activated its Crisis Intervention Team to support students, staff and families affected by the tragedy. Counseling services will remain available throughout the week.

Community members have already begun placing flowers and stuffed animals near the school as a memorial grows. Anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant information has been asked to contact the Jamestown Police Department. The investigation is ongoing.

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Parents Speak Out After Motorists Target Son with Disabilities at School Bus Stop

School Transportation News

By: Merari Acevedo

21 November 2025 at 19:23

What should be a simple part of a morning routine has turned into years of stress for one Lancaster County family, reported Local 21 News.

The Miklos family of Strasburg told local news reporters they’ve endured daily harassment from impatient motorists, all because it takes their 7-year-old son, Sirus, a few extra minutes to get on and off his school bus.

Sirus was reportedly diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy shortly after his first birthday. The rare neuromuscular disorder affects muscle movement, leaving him subject to a wheelchair. To get to school each day, he rides a bus specially equipped for children with disabilities. Loading and unloading takes about three minutes, just a few extra minutes compared to other stops, but the added time has sparked anger and cruelty from drivers stuck behind the bus.

“For the last three years, people have been swearing, honking and even swerving around the bus,” said Sirus’ father, Nate Miklos. “It erodes his self-confidence. He’s just trying to go to school like every other kid, and people are being impatient. He feels like that’s his fault.”

Sirus’ mother, Danielle, told reporters that the situation reached a breaking point this year.

“The final straw was a man coming down the street honking as Sirus was getting loaded,” she said. “As the bus pulled away, he yelled nasty things at us because he had to wait.”

The family reported the harassment to local law enforcement, but they say the behavior has only worsened.

“It’s about three and a half minutes of people’s commute in the morning that they have to stay while he gets on the bus,” Danielle said. “I don’t really think that’s a big deal.”

Frustrated but determined to raise awareness, Danielle shared their story. It gained attention and sparked a wave of compassion from their Strasburg neighbors. Within days, the community organized a special ride to school for Sirus, complete with local police officers who gave him a full escort.

“We got messages from people we don’t even know saying they saw him smiling the whole ride,” Danielle said via the news report. “It makes us feel like we belong in this community and that the community has our back.”

While the family says there’s still no permanent fix to stop the harassment, they hope their story will remind motorists to slow down and show empathy. “If it bothers you that much, take a different route,” Nate said. “But please, let our son get to school safely and with dignity.”

For Sirus, going to school remains the highlight of his day. He loves his teachers, his friends and learning new things. His parents say that despite the challenges, seeing his joy each morning reminds them why they continue to speak out.

Pennsylvania law requires all drivers to stop for school buses with flashing red lights, including those loading or unloading children with disabilities. Violators can face fines and license suspensions.

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Volunteers Help Immigrant Parents in Chicago Participate in Walking School Bus

School Transportation News

By: Merari Acevedo

21 November 2025 at 19:19

As federal immigration agents step up enforcement operations across Chicago, a growing network of volunteers in Albany Park has formed an unexpected lifeline for local immigrant families: a walking school bus that escorts children to and from school each day, reported WTTW News.

The effort emerged shortly after residents noticed a stark shift in neighborhood life. As explained by volunteer Alyssa May, the impact of the increased raids was immediate. “The moment that the raids started happening and people started getting pulled off the street, you could just see it,” May said via the article. “You could see less students, less families, less vendors. And it really did change. It just became a really quiet place.”

Fearing arrest, many parents have been hesitant to leave their homes, even to bring their children to school. In response, a group of mothers, teachers and community members reportedly came together to ensure students could still make it to class safely and consistently.

May now leads one of the daily walking routes for an elementary school in the neighborhood, guiding children whose parents are too afraid to accompany them. She estimates that between 80 and 100 students are picked up each morning. Out of precaution, volunteers asked that the school remain unnamed due to ongoing immigration enforcement in the area.

For many children, the walking school bus has become more than just a mode of transportation. Teacher Dulce Jimenez said the routine helps restore a sense of stability. “The kids have gotten to know the volunteers and like walking to school with their friends,” Jimenez said via the news report. “They’re kind of not even realizing the distraction that was created and what we’re trying to close off for them.”

For volunteers like Maggie Cullerton Hooper, the community’s response has been both inspiring and necessary. “It is really very heartening to see just how much we will all show up to be a part of making sure that all of our kids are safe, that all of our people are safe,” Hooper told local news reporters.

For May, who is also a mother, the work feels deeply personal. She recalled seeing fear on the children’s faces during the afternoon pick-up. “You could kind of sense at pick-up the fear of some of the kids of, like, will I come home to an empty house?” she said. “We still have to sit with that and know that that is a reality, but at least they are getting one bright simple spot every day.”

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11-Year-Old Struck by School Bus in Utah, in Stable Condition

School Transportation News

By: Merari Acevedo

18 November 2025 at 23:38

An 11-year-old student was injured after being struck by a school bus while crossing a roadway in Hurricane City, Utah, reported 2 KUTV.

First responders were dispatched Wednesday to a local intersection following reports of an auto–pedestrian collision, the Hurricane City Police Department said . Upon arrival, emergency crews located the injured child and immediately began medical treatment.

The student, whose name was not disclosed at this writing, was transported to St. George Regional Medical Center and is reportedly in stable condition. Police said the child may have sustained a head injury during the incident.

Witnesses told investigators that the student, who attends Hurricane Intermediate School, was running across 700 West when they were struck by a Washington County School District bus. Officials confirmed that several students were aboard the bus at the time, but no passengers or the bus driver were injured.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation, and police noted no additional details are available at this time.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the injured student and family at this time,” the Hurricane City Police Department said in a statement.

More information will be released as the investigation develops.

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Louisiana Boy Waiting for School Bus Allegedly Killed by Impaired Grandmother

School Transportation News

By: Merari Acevedo

17 November 2025 at 21:01

A 5-year-old Louisiana boy was killed after being run over in his family’s driveway by his grandmother, who police allege was drunk and under the influence of depressants at the time of the accident.

During a press conference last Tuesday following the incident, Slidell Police Department announced the arrest of 55-year-old Kristen Anders, who was charged with vehicular homicide. The St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office formally identified her grandson as Carson Lawson the following day.

Police Chief Daniel Seuzeneau said officers were called to the family’s home at around 7 a.m. Tuesday, following reports that a child had been struck by a vehicle. Carson was pronounced dead at the scene.

According to investigators, Carson was standing in the driveway waiting for his school bus when Anders left the house to drive to work. Police allege she entered her SUV, which had been backed into the driveway, and began pulling forward, unaware the boy was directly in front of the vehicle. Because of the size of the SUV, Seuzeneau said, Carson was not visible to her. The child died instantly, according to police.

A drug recognition expert evaluated Anders at the scene. Seuzeneau said the expert determined she was impaired and under the influence of alcohol and central nervous system depressants, though police did not specify the specific substances involved. She was taken into custody shortly thereafter and later booked into the St. Tammany Parish Jail. Her bond was set at $50,000.

Seuzeneau spoke about the impact on first responders.

“This is any parent’s worst nightmare,” he said. “I was at the scene this morning as well as several of our officers. This affects everyone. This hits home hard for all of us and all of the first responders who were at that scene.”

The police chief added that he had spoken several times with Carson’s mother on Tuesday.

“There isn’t anything that I can say that can make her feel better or make this situation better,” he said.

The investigation remains ongoing.

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California Farmworkers Hailed as Heroes After Rescuing 20 Children from Burning School Bus

School Transportation News

By: Merari Acevedo

6 November 2025 at 22:12

Two California farmworkers were celebrated as local heroes after saving 20 children from a burning school bus in Madera County north of Fresno last month, reported ABC News.

Carlos Perea Romero and Angel Zarco were honored on Oct. 21 by the Madera County Board of Supervisors for their quick thinking and bravery during the Sept. 4 incident, when they pulled students to safety from a school bus engulfed in flames.

“All the students made it out safely without any injuries due to the immediate action taken by the farmworkers and the bus driver,” the Board said via the article. “The Board of Supervisors recognize the two men for their selfless courage and bravery, demonstrating the highest ideals of public service, compassion and community spirit.”

Romero and Zarco were reportedly driving to work when they spotted thick smoke rising from the school bus. Without hesitation, they rushed to the scene and began evacuating the trapped children, battling heat and smoke to reach those seated in the back rows.

“We are profoundly grateful to the two farmworkers whose heroic actions saved the lives of more than 20 children,” said Madera County Sheriff Tyson Pogue via the news report. “Their quick thinking, bravery, and compassion in the face of danger exemplify the very best of Madera County.”

Zarco recalled the urgency of the moment.

“We were just making sure the kids were far away enough so that they wouldn’t get hurt,” he said.

Romero added, “One more moment that would have lasted, I don’t know what would have happened.”

Both men downplayed their heroism, saying they were simply doing what needed to be done. According to the article, CAL FIRE Division Chief Larry Pendarvis also praised the pair, saying their “situational awareness and fortitude” made the difference in saving lives. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

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High School Senior Killed Walking to Bus Stop in Florida

School Transportation News

By: Merari Acevedo

29 October 2025 at 21:02

A Forest High School senior was killed after being hit by a car while walking to her bus stop in Ocala, Florida, reported Fox 35

The crash reportedly happened Monday around 6:20 a.m. Officers say 18-year-old Shannon Rushing was struck by a vehicle driven by a 60-year-old woman and died from her injuries at the scene.

According to the news report, school district officials identified Rushing as a senior at Forest High School who was known for her positive attitude and involvement in school activities.

Rushing’s older sister, Shanta Norton, had been raising her since their mother’s passing, Norton described her sister to local news reporters as a friendly and outgoing young woman who was active in her school’s Christian club and always eager to make others laugh.

She said Rushing, “knew how much we loved her, but she always said it to me,” recalling that just days before her death, she had told her she loved her.

Norton said the family will remember her as someone who was “always smiling and laughing.”

The Ocala Police Department said via the article, “We are heartbroken with this news and are supporting the family and school community during this difficult time.”

The crash remains under investigation at this report.

Counselors at Forest High School met with students and staff to help them cope with the tragedy.

The post High School Senior Killed Walking to Bus Stop in Florida appeared first on School Transportation News.

U.S.DOT Welcomes New Leadership Following Senate Confirmation, Barrs to FMCSA

School Transportation News

By: Merari Acevedo

29 October 2025 at 19:31

In a partisan 51–47 vote, the U.S. Senate confirmed four top leadership appointments to the U.S. Department of Transportation, marking a significant step for the current administration’s transportation and infrastructure agenda.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy welcomed the Oct. 7 confirmations of Derek Barrs as administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) alongside Michael Rutherford as the first assistant secretary for Multimodal Freight Infrastructure & Policy, Gregory Zerzan as general counsel, and David Fink as administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). Duffy called them all “accomplished leaders” poised to advance safety, efficiency, and innovation across the nation’s transportation systems.

In a press release, Secretary Duffy stated his confidence in their ability to serve the American people and move the department’s goals forward. Among the group, Barrs has deep roots in commercial motor vehicle safety and law enforcement.

With more than two decades of experience, including leadership roles at the Florida Highway Patrol and the Florida Department of Transportation, Barrs has also been a visible figure in the industry, serving as an associate vice president at infrastructure design firm HTNB and holding senior leadership positions within the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA).

CVSA publicly supported Barrs’ nomination, with Executive Director Collin Mooney saying Barrs has a unique blend of enforcement and industry experience and praising his leadership in modernizing safety practices and championing technological advancement. Barrs’ commitment to roadway safety is also reflected in his role on the American Trucking Associations’ Law Enforcement Advisory Board.

Following his confirmation, Barrs stated that his mission is to “strengthen safety, demand accountability and deliver results that make a real difference,” emphasizing his commitment to working collaboratively with law enforcement and industry stakeholders. As FMCSA administrator, he now leads a nationwide team of over 1,100 employees tasked with regulating and overseeing safety in the commercial motor vehicle sector.

The post U.S.DOT Welcomes New Leadership Following Senate Confirmation, Barrs to FMCSA appeared first on School Transportation News.

Minnesota Mom Helps Evacuate 22 Students from Burning School Bus

School Transportation News

By: Merari Acevedo

23 October 2025 at 16:26

A school bus fire in Bethel, Minnesota, turned into a dramatic rescue earlier this month when a mother helped evacuate 22 elementary students just moments before flames engulfed the vehicle, reported CBS News.

According to the news report, Kari Thorp was waiting for her daughter’s school bus when she noticed smoke and flames coming from underneath the vehicle as it stopped in front of her home. She quickly alerted the driver, Rick Gratton, and the two acted fast to get the children off the bus safely.

“It was crazy. I’m just thankful that he was very calm,” Thorp said via the article.

Thorp’s Ring doorbell camera captured the scene as students from East Bethel Elementary gathered on her lawn, visibly shaken while flames spread rapidly through the front of the bus.

“Kids were crying. Kids were scared and freaking out,” Thorp told local news reporters. “It was quite emotional and kind of frantic.”

The fire escalated quickly. Within 15 minutes, the front of the bus was fully engulfed, and the intense heat even melted part of the road in front of Thorp’s house.

Though some backpacks, lunch boxes and the bus itself were lost in the fire, no injuries were reported. The students’ safe evacuation is being credited to the swift response of Thorp and Gratton as well as the children’s recent school bus safety training.

Both Thorp and Gratton were recognized for their “heroic efforts” in getting all students to safety by St. Francis Area Schools. Thorp reflected on how different things might have turned out if she hadn’t been outside at the time.

“I don’t think he would have gotten very far. And I don’t think we would have been able to get those kids off the bus as fast,” she said via the report. “A lot of little ones sit up front, and that’s where it all started.”

An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire.

The post Minnesota Mom Helps Evacuate 22 Students from Burning School Bus appeared first on School Transportation News.

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