A veteran school bus driver is being hailed as a hero after her quick thinking helped keep dozens of students safe during a crash that took place on the way to a basketball game.

Linda Christophersen, 75, affectionately known as “Miss Linda” to students at Vernonia High School, was driving the boys and girls basketball teams to a game at Nestucca High School Feb. 13. An oncoming vehicle crossed the center line and struck the bus on Highway 101, about five miles from the teams’ destination.

Christophersen’s daughter Tonya Langley told local news reporters that her mom saw the vehicle edging into her lane and reacted immediately.

“She could see the vehicle coming at her was crowding the center line, so she started crowding the fog line as much as she could,” Langley recounted. “She yelled, ‘Hold on,’ and then when it hit, the bus tried to go to the left and then immediately went to the right into the bank. She did everything she could to try to hold it.”

Despite the impact, Christophersen brought the school bus to a controlled stop. Langley said her mother’s first concern was not her own injuries, but the students on board.

“She goes, ‘I’m fine but it’s not about me.’ She immediately [turned her attention] to the kids. It was all about the kids and how the kids were,” Langley said.

In a statement to families, Jim Helmen, superintendent of the Vernonia School District, confirmed that the student-athletes, coaches and the Christopherson were safe following the school bus crash.

One student experienced a seizure during the school bus crash and was transported to Tillamook Hospital for evaluation. Another student sustained an injury but did not require hospital transport. Emergency responders evaluated Christopherson and all her passengers at the scene.

Helmen also praised Christophersen’s actions.

“I would like to recognize our bus driver, Linda, for her professionalism and composure in responding to a very difficult situation. Her training and steady response helped maintain stability and student safety during the incident,” he wrote.

The superintendent thanked first responders, including the Oregon State Police, who responded to the scene and took statements.

Helmen also expressed gratitude to the Nestucca School District for assisting students and staff after the crash. Nestucca administrators worked with law enforcement to help transport Vernonia students from the scene to Nestucca High School, where parents provided food and counseling support for students who were understandably shaken. The school also opened its library as a quiet space for students and staff.

“It was shared with me by Nestucca administration that our students were very respectful, thankful and represented the Vernonia community extremely well,” Helmen wrote. “That is something we can all be proud of.”

The superintendent further thanked Girls and Boys Basketball coaches David Weller and Ken Ellis, Athletic Director Justin Ward, and Principal Nate Underwood for their leadership during the incident, as well as Shelley H. and Rob Curl of Curls Transportation Co. for their quick response in dispatching another bus.

Friday evening’s basketball games were canceled.

Heroic Driver Eager to Get Back Behind the Wheel

A few days after the school bus crash, Christophersen was sore but recovering well. She declined an interview request, but her daughter said the recognition is well-deserved.

“My mom has never known her own worth, and she’s never put herself out there,” Langley said via local news reports. “It just made me very, very proud.”

Christophersen began driving a school bus after her husband passed away because she wanted to stay active and involved in the community. Her experience behind the wheel stretches back decades — from driving dump trucks for the family business to navigating rugged logging roads long before it was common to see women in the industry.

Today, she’s known for decorating her bus, bringing treats for students and even chaperoning prom. And despite the frightening crash, Langley said her mother is eager to return to work.

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Related: New York School Bus Driver Recognized for Commitment
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Related: Minnesota School Bus Driver Hailed Hero for Avoiding Head-On Crash With Semi
Related: Teens Hailed Heroes in Kentucky School Bus Crash

The post Oregon School District Honors School Bus Driver for Composure During Crash appeared first on School Transportation News.

On Friday, lawmakers in the Wisconsin Assembly voted in favor of a bill seeking Medicaid coverage for people in Wisconsin prisons and jails. Supporters hope it will help recently incarcerated people avoid addiction and overdoses. 

Rep. Shelia Stubbs (D-Madison) said her experience working for the Wisconsin Department of Corrections has given her firsthand knowledge about the impact AB 604 will have. She said it will improve access to treatment and case management and ease the financial burden on justice-involved Wisconsinites. 

The bill would give incarcerated people a greater chance of maintaining sobriety and preventing overdose after release from prison, Stubbs said. After a Minnesota study about the causes of death of recently incarcerated people, researcher Tyler Winkelman said that “substance use is clearly the main driver of death after release from both jail and prison.”

Medicaid is prohibited from paying for services provided during incarceration, barring some exceptions involving inpatient services or an eligible juvenile under 21 years old. The National Association of Counties published a toolkit critical of the “inmate exclusion policy,” arguing in part that it unfairly revokes federal health benefits from people who are being detained prior to trial and have not been found guilty.  

The bill would pursue a path offered by the federal government that allows for a partial waiver of the policy. 

The proposal directs the Department of Health Services to request a waiver to conduct a demonstration project; 19 states have approved waivers and nine states including Washington D.C. have pending waivers, as of November 21. 

A waiver would allow for prerelease health care coverage under the Medical Assistance program, which provides health services to people with limited finances, for up to 90 days before release of an eligible incarcerated person. Coverage would be provided for case management services, medication-assisted treatment for all types of substance use disorders and a 30-day supply of prescription medications. 

The bill garnered support from lawmakers from both parties and from WISDOM and EX-Incarcerated People Organizing, groups that advocate for incarcerated people. 

The Assembly’s vote to seek the coverage for incarcerated people comes on the heels of its vote to accept a federal expansion of Medicaid coverage for women for one year after they give birth. 

For the waiver, if the state seeks federal Medicaid coverage for services that are currently funded with state or local dollars, the state has to reinvest any savings in state or local funds. Savings would be invested in programs to increase access to or improve the quality of health care for incarcerated people. 

In the Department of Corrections fiscal estimate, the DOC said that in fiscal year 2025, the agency spent $500,000 on the 30-day medication supply dispensed for incarcerated people pre-release, $300,000 on pre-release medication assisted treatment medications and $3.9 million on the Opening Avenues to Reentry Success (OARS) program. The OARS program supports the transition from prison to the community of incarcerated people living with a severe and persistent mental illness who are at medium-to-high risk of reoffending. 

The agency estimated it may have over $750,000 in potential cost savings if the waiver is approved and implemented. 

Because not all incarcerated people will qualify, the estimate assumes that half of the medication supply and medication assisted treatment medications costs will be reimbursed, as well as 10% of the OARS program costs. There may be other costs DOC can have reimbursed.

AB 604 would require the Department of Health Services to submit the waiver request no later than Jan. 1, 2027. 

The bill now goes to the state Senate. Supporters of the bill include the Wisconsin Medical Society, the National Alliance on Mental Illness Wisconsin, the Medical College of Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Counties Association. 

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“Smooth communication between administration and transportation operations begins with presence, clarity of vision and strong relationships,” Gorham (Maine) School District Superintendent Dr. Heather Perry told School Transportation News. 

Perry, one of the four finalists for the AASA: School Superintendents Association National Superintendent of the Year award, announced Thursday, continued that it means ensuring the right people are in the right leadership roles, setting clear expectations and maintaining consistent, two-way-communication. “So, transportation leaders are true partners in the district’s educational mission—not just problem solvers when issues arise. Spending time listening, coaching, and supporting transportation leaders helps ensure they are fully aligned with district goals and culture.”

Perry also wrote a blog for AASA outlining five ways the central office can strengthen the behind-the-scenes cultures, including school bus drivers. She noted leaders should integrate program leaders into the district leadership team, publicly celebrate the impact of support staff, provide tailored professional development, establish clear communication loops, and model respect and visibility.

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Related: Superintendent of the Year Snapshot: Support, Understanding of Transportation
Related: (STN Podcast E293) Community, Not Individual: Maine Superintendent Collaborates for Student, Staff Success

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“My advice to other superintendents is to intentionally invest in and publicly value their transportation teams,” she told STN. “Our bus drivers and dispatchers are often the first and last school connection students experience each day, and those moments shape how students feel about safety, belonging, and school itself. When communication is strong and the work is celebrated, we create a system where every child’s day begins and ends in a safe, welcoming, and caring environment.”

She highlighted the integral role of transportation in one of Gorham’s most significant initiatives, Aspire Gorham, a birth-to-adult, community-wide approach to building aspiration and purpose across the entire educational continuum. This program exposes students to a wide range of careers and possibilities, supports hands-on exploration and provides experiences for older students through internships, apprenticeships, Career and Technical Education and Extended Learning Opportunities programs, and community-based learning partnerships.

“The goal is to ensure that every student can see themselves in a future they are excited about and feel prepared to pursue it,” she said, adding that a critical factor in making the vision a reality is equitable access. “And transportation is often the gatekeeper. When learning extends beyond the walls of the classroom to job sites, colleges, training centers, and community partners, reliable and flexible transportation becomes essential. Without it, opportunities can unintentionally become limited to only those students who have access to personal transportation, creating barriers that run counter to our commitment to equity and inclusion. For this reason, strengthening our transportation system to be more adaptive, responsive, and student-centered has been an ongoing priority.”

She explained that transportation is not just an operational function, but an instructional enabler. “It is the bridge that connects students to real-world learning, career pathways, and life-changing experiences that define Aspire Gorham,” she continued. “When transportation is thoughtfully designed and adequately supported, it ensures that every student, regardless of circumstance, can fully participate in the opportunities that help them discover their passions, build skills and confidently step into their future.”

A working relationship with the transportation department, she said, is integral, not only to the program but to the effectiveness of education programs as a whole.

“As superintendent, one of my core responsibilities is quite literally to ensure we have the right people in the right seats on the bus,” she said. “That means building and sustaining high-quality leadership within transportation and providing the support, resources and clear communication they need to do their work well. When transportation leaders are valued as instructional partners rather than simply operational managers, the entire system functions more cohesively and responsively.”

She said a strong relationship also ensures challenges are anticipated, rather than reacted to, with safety and equity remaining at the forefront of every decision.

“When the relationship between district leadership and the transportation department is grounded in trust, collaboration and shared purpose, it creates a seamless system that supports students, families and schools and advances the district’s mission in meaningful, tangible ways,” she said.

Transportation Operations 

Mitzii Smith, the Gorham director of transportation and a former STN Rising SuperStar, said she has felt support from the administration from the start.

“Leadership has been welcoming and open to my ideas and experience,” she said. “Change can be challenging, but transportation consistently has support at the leadership level. That support truly starts with Perry, who values every employee and understands the importance of transportation’s role in the students’ overall educational experience.”

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Related: (STN Podcast E245) Pre-Trip Yourself: Green Bus Funding Anxiety, Promoting Emotional Intelligence
Related: From School Bus Driver to Assistant Director: Journey of a Rising Star
Related: Follow the ‘GOLDEN’ Brick Road

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She noted that transportation is currently focused on strengthening department training, developing clear driver handbooks and preparing for the expansion of the districts pre-k program to include 3- and 4-year olds. The department also implemented BusRight over the summer, and transportation leaders are actively working through the learning curve that comes with any new routing and communication system.

“Technology is a big part of our operation,” she shared. “We use routing and communication software to improve efficiency, enhance family communication and support safety and compliance. We continue to look for tools that make our operation more effective and transparent.”

Smith noted that while transportation is behind the scenes, it’s essential to student success. “When drivers are supported and leadership is engaged, it shows in the quality and safety of service we provide. I’m proud of our team and the work we doing,” she said, adding that Perry leads with open communication and trust.

“She makes a point to understand the challenges transportation faces and ensures we’re included in district-level conversations,” Smith added. “She’s accessible, responsive and visible throughout the district. As someone who transitioned after 20 years in my previous district, her support made that change smooth and rewarding. Gorham transportation is fortunate to have leadership that truly values our work.”

The post Superintendent Snapshot: Communication, Collaboration Key for Maine School District Success appeared first on School Transportation News.

Lamar Consolidated Independent School District Superintendent Roosevelt Nivens reportedly shows a solid understanding and strong support for transportation operations by staying in regular contact with operations and transportation leaders as well as frontline staff.

Chief Operations Officer Greg Buchanan said Nivens, “has contributed to meeting transportation needs by helping secure successful bond elections to fund fleet expansion.”

Plus, Nivens — who was named the winner Thursday from among three other finalists for the National Superintendent of the Year award at the National Conference on Education — actively engages with employees during site visits, where he expresses appreciation for drivers, mechanics and leadership alike.

“Recently, he supported funding for 16 additional full-day drivers to cover absences and open routes, and he added leadership roles to keep transportation operations aligned with district growth,” Buchanan said.

The Superintendent of the Year Award is sponsored by AASA: The School Superintendents Association, along with Corebridge Financial and Sourcewell, celebrate the contributions and leadership of public-school superintendents.

Transportation Operations

Lamar CISD runs an entirely in-house transportation system that facilitates daily student mobility across a rapidly expanding district, “which allows the district to directly oversee safety standards, staffing and service quality,” Buchanan said.

It employs 275 drivers across three terminals for 265 daily bus routes. The district transports approximately 22,700 students each school day. During the 2024–2025 school year, school buses traveled more than 4.6 million miles, serving both general and special education routes.

Lamar CISD relies heavily on technology to streamline operations, enhance communication and improve safety. This includes Tyler Technologies’ comprehensive student transportation software for route planning, driver navigation, student ridership tracking, and a parent app. Fleet Vision helps the district manage fuel and parts inventory and Trip Tracker coordinates campus-based trip scheduling.

Ahead of the 2026 Superintendent of the Year being named Feb. 12 at the National Conference on Education in Nashville, Tennessee, School Transportation News sat down with those in charge of transportation operations at the respective districts to gain a better understanding of how the services function.

A $10,000 college scholarship will be presented in the name of the 2025 National Superintendent of the Year to a student at a high school the winning superintendent graduated from or from the school district the winner now leads.

Lamar CISD also uses Safety Vision camera systems to monitor bus interiors and exteriors, aiding accident investigations. “Additionally, AI-enabled tools are used daily for operational planning, communication and leadership support, enabling staff to respond swiftly to changing conditions,” Buchanan said.

When it comes to workplace culture, transportation encourages engagement and morale through constant communication. Culture is a key focus of the department to align with the district’s overall strategic plan, “which highlights recognizing exceptional performance and fostering a culture of excellence,” he added.

Communication is fostered through including weekly newsletters, terminal-level outreach, and a sunshine committee that organizes employee recognition, morale-boosting activities and celebrations.

“These efforts culminate in an annual end-of-year awards banquet that honors outstanding service and achievement,” Buchanan said.

One current initiative is to address Texas Senate Bill 546, which requires all school buses to be equipped with three-point seatbelts by Sept. 1, 2029. “The district is meeting this mandate through a combination of new bus purchases and retrofitting select existing buses,” Buchanan said, adding that it is not operating alternative-fuel or energy school buses due to the significant costs and infrastructure requirements.

Another initiative was the opening of a new transportation facility, which was opened to support district growth and improve operational efficiency. In addition, the district opened a new Junior High School which was named after Ella Banks, a 40-year veteran school bus driver at the district.

“This recognition underscores the district’s commitment to treating transportation as an essential component of student success,” Buchanan said.

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Related: AASA Announces 2026 National Superintendent of Year Finalists
Related: First Alabama Educator Named 2025 AASA Superintendent of the Year

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The price of making phone calls from prisons and jails was set to drop under a 2024 FCC rule, but a 2025 rule revision is driving costs back up | Getty Images

For many, the recent holiday season was a time to connect with family. For some, family includes someone incarcerated in one of Wisconsin’s prisons or jails. 

Juli Bliefnick told the Wisconsin Examiner she was incarcerated in county jail and state prison from January 2012 to June 2016. She said that many people would save up precious telephone time to call their families for the holidays. 

“People that came from more disadvantaged backgrounds would not call their families as often,” Bliefnick said.

She remembers the cost of calls putting strain on her relationship with her parents while she was incarcerated. 

While incarcerated, Ventae Parrow said he had to choose whether to spend his money on additional food items and hygiene, or on talking with family on the phone. Parrow left prison in 2020 and is an organizer for the advocacy network WISDOM. He told the Examiner that how often he talked to his family depended on how much money he had.

Nationally, jail and prison phone call rates have declined over the years, according to a report covering 2008-2021 from the Prison Policy Initiative. And in 2024, the Federal Communications Commission voted for new rules to lower how much calls could cost.

The agency announced that for the overwhelming majority of people, the upper limit on the per-minute cost of calls would drop by over half. New per-minute caps ranged from 6 cents per minute for prisons to 12 cents per minute for very small jails.

However, the agency postponed aspects of the new rules in June, including the 2024 caps, until April 2027. Then the FCC voted in the fall of last year to partially roll back the 2024 change with new caps. The commission voted to increase the caps on the cost of a minute on the phone partway back to the caps that preceded the 2024 rules. The new caps range from 11 cents per minute for prisons to 19 cents per minute for extremely small jails. The FCC called them interim caps, and said it was seeking comment on how to establish permanent caps.

The FCC decision includes a ban on site commissions — payments from service providers to correctional facilities that the Prison Policy Initiative said had had the effect of inflating the final costs families paid. The ban will take effect on April 6. Wanda Bertram of the Prison Policy Initiative said that sheriffs’ desire for commissions “was an important factor in driving up phone rates in the past, but it’s hard to say how that is going to change the setting of rates going forward with the new rules,” and that companies may or may not choose to jack rates up to the maximum now allowed by the FCC.

Worth Rises, a group advocating for lower rates, said the 2025 revised caps will deliver substantially less financial relief to families affected by incarceration. They will take effect April 6 barring further action.

In northeastern Wisconsin, people incarcerated in the Brown County Jail currently pay a per-minute rate of 15 cents for phone calls, Captain Heidi Michel told the Examiner. They receive two free phone calls and two free messages per week.

Michel said the jail’s average daily population for 2025 was 661 people, which meets the FCC’s definition of a medium-sized jail. The 2025 caps will require jails of this size to have rates of 12 cents per minute or less. Under the 2024 rules, medium-sized jails would have to abide by a lower rate — 7 cents per minute or less — and therefore charge incarcerated people and their families less money.

The 2025 caps also allow for people to be charged higher rates for video calls than the 2024 rules. Michel said people incarcerated in the Brown County Jail can have video visitation for 18 cents per minute. A medium-sized jail can have this rate under the 2025 caps for video calls. However, the 2024 caps would have required a rate of 12 cents per minute or less.

Michel didn’t immediately respond to a question from the Examiner on Friday about whether the county currently receives a portion of the revenue from the phone calls that incarcerated people in their jail and their families make.

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said rules the commission adopted in 2024 resulted in “serious, unintended consequences.” He said that limiting how facilities could recover safety and security costs through phone call charges caused some correctional facilities to scale back or even stop offering calling services.

The Baxter County Sheriff’s Office in Arkansas announced that the phone system used at the Baxter County Detention Counter would soon no longer be available due to the regulations. Two companies claimed to the FCC in April that its 2024 order was forcing correctional facilities to end or reduce access to services, and that the two companies were forced to end service to a few facilities.

Commissioner Anna Gomez, who dissented in the rollback of the 2024 rule change, said the commission took “narrow and speculative” concerns and granted a waiver of the entire 2024 decision. She also raised the idea that the commission could have considered an individual waiver of the 2024 caps for facilities that showed that having less revenue led to communication services being unavailable.

Gomez called the FCC’s order indefensible, saying it would implement “an egregious transfer of wealth from families in incredibly vulnerable situations to monopoly companies that seek to squeeze every penny out of them.”

Wanda Bertram of the Prison Policy Initiative told the Examiner that according to the FCC, the caps were calculated to offset the cost of companies offering certain features to jails and prisons, such as call monitoring. In an interview, Bertram argued that call monitoring technology should not be funded by fees charged to incarcerated people and their families. 

Call costs for Wisconsin jails and prisons

The cost of a phone call varies across facilities. In the Eau Claire County Jail in western Wisconsin, incarcerated people pay 9 cents per minute on the phone and receive two free phone calls a week, Security Services Captain Chad Dachel told the Examiner. For the Polk County Jail, the rate is $0.19 per minute, and incarcerated people are allowed two free calls per week, according to Sheriff Brent Waak.

As of late 2021, the average cost of a 15-minute call from a local jail in Wisconsin was $3.00, according to a Prison Policy Initiative report.

In a statement to the Examiner, Mark Rice of WISDOM called for making prison and jail phone calls free for all. The effects of this would include reducing the financial challenge for families and improving the mental wellbeing of affected people, he wrote. The Prison Policy Initiative has argued that family contact also reduces recidivism.

In November, lawmakers and organizers announced a package of bills aimed at improving conditions in prisons and jails, including the affordability of communication, the Examiner reported.

ICSolutions, telephone service provider for the Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC), charges 6 cents per minute for calls at the department’s adult facilities, DOC communications director Beth Hardtke told the Examiner, as of late December. ICSolutions charges 1 cent per minute for calls made at juvenile facilities and continues to charge $2.50 for a 25-minute video visit or $5 for a 50-minute visit, according to Hardtke.  According to reporting from the Examiner in 2024, a family member of a man incarcerated at Fox Lake Correctional Institution said people receive two free calls every Sunday. Three free weekly messages are provided, according to the department’s website.

People incarcerated in jails and their families have tended to experience higher phone rates than those in prison, according to the Prison Policy Initiative report covering 2008-2021. Under the caps the FCC passed in 2024, the DOC’s 6-cent rate would still have been allowed; that’s a 15-minute rate of 90 cents In 2021, the average 15-minute rate for a jail phone call was roughly $3.

However, ICSolutions is required to pay the department a commission of 4 cents per minute for all calls at adult institutions. The FCC decision includes a ban on site commissions, which critics say inflate call costs. The ban will take effect on April 6. 

Will the commission ban affect state prisons?

Under state law, two-thirds of the phone commission from the contract must go to the Department of Administration, according to Hardtke. One-third goes to DOC and must be spent on services that “directly benefit” incarcerated people.

In September 2024, Hardtke told the Examiner that ICSolutions paid nearly $6.3 million in commission in fiscal year 2024. The Department of Corrections’ share was nearly $2.1 million. 

Hardtke said that “the commissions received allow DOC to purchase the following in support of the persons in our care,” and provided a list of items ranging from mail processing services to re-entry portfolios to art supplies. 

It’s unclear whether the FCC’s commission ban will affect prisoners’ ability to access items and services currently funded by  the commission money, or if other funding will sustain those items and services. However, $2.1 million is a tiny fraction of the Department of Corrections budget, and the commission money may not account for all of the funding supporting each item or service Hardtke listed. Hardtke said the Department of Corrections is continuing to evaluate how to best continue services to the Wisconsin prison population.

Bertram of the Prison Policy Initiative said that charging people higher phone rates shouldn’t be the source of money for things like free video calls that benefit incarcerated people.

The decision leaves some room for authorities to receive money from phone calls. Within the new FCC caps, a portion of up to 2 cents per minute exists “to account for the costs correctional facilities incur in allowing access to (communication services).” 

Bertram told the Examiner that an example of this would be time spent by a correctional officer to escort people to a phone bay. The FCC said this was an interim measure while it sought comment for a permanent version. 

Hardtke’s full list of items that receive funding from the commission was: “mail processing services, driver education simulation equipment, recreation equipment, exercise equipment, library resources, TVs, cable TV, art supplies, re-entry portfolios, puzzles, yarn, activity books, CD/DVD players, movies, dayroom microwaves, incentive prizes, visiting room toys/activities, media credits, dayroom newspapers, magazine subscriptions, modern technology improvements and services, bus tickets for release, dayroom ice machines, personal laundry washing machines and repairs, barber services, religious and chapel supplies and services, legal loans, lanyards, burial/cremation for unclaimed bodies, dayroom game tables, dayroom board and card games, graduation ceremonies expenses, and more.”

Before the rollback in October, the FCC postponed its rate cap rules in June. In a November interview, Bertram said she’d already heard from families about the cost of connection going up in the wake of the loss of the 2024 caps. 

“This is going to come as a shock to a lot of families who had gotten a lot of relief from the 2024 rules,” Bertram said. 

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The School Superintendents Association, AASA, announced its four finalists for the 2026 National Superintendent of the Year Award. The winner will be named at the annual National Conference on Education in February.

AASA along with award co-sponsors Corebridge Financial and Sourcewell will recognize on of the finalists “for their outstanding leadership and dedication to advancing public education in their communities,” a press release noted.

The following finalists were nominated by their state associations and honored with the title of State Superintendent of the Year. They were measured against criteria such as leadership for learning, communication, professionalism and community involvement.

Demetrus Liggins, superintendent of Fayette County Public Schools in Kentucky joins Roosevelt Nivens, superintendent of Lamar Consolidated Independent School District in Texas, Heather Perry, superintendent of Schools at Maine’s Gorham School Department, and Sonja Santelises, the chief executive officer at Baltimore City Schools in Maryland.

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Related: Superintendent Defends School Bus Driver Accused of Erratic Driving, Potential Impairment
Related: First Alabama Educator Named 2025 AASA Superintendent of the Year
Related: Superintendent Snapshot: Florida District Depends on Transportation
Related: Superintendent Snapshot: Staying Connected with Departments, Students

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“These extraordinary leaders embody the transformative power of public education,” stated David R. Schuler, AASA’s executive director. “Their visionary leadership uplifts students and demonstrates our continued commitment to providing every child with the opportunities, experiences, and education that prepares them for college, career, and real life in the real world. We are honored to celebrate their incredible success and accomplishments.

The winner will be announced on stage during the National Conference on Education, Feb. 12-14 in Nashville, Tennessee. A $10,000 college scholarship will be presented in the name of the 2026 National Superintendent of the Year to a student who attends the high school from which the superintendent graduated or a school within the district.

The full list of 50 state superintendents of the year is online.

The post AASA Announces 2026 National Superintendent of Year Finalists appeared first on School Transportation News.

School Transportation News is currently accepting applications for its 2026 awards: Garage Stars, Rising Stars, Innovator of the Year and the Peter J. Grandolfo Memorial Award of Excellence.

STN gathers annual nominations from across the country and historically has chosen 10 Garage Star finalists to be featured in the August magazine edition. Last summer, STN selected seven individuals and three maintenance teams. STN also features 10 Rising SuperStar finalists in the November issue.

Garage and Rising Star finalists receive STN conference registration scholarships, to be used at an STN EXPO or TSD conference of their choice the following year.

The application window for Garage Stars will close on May 16. Rising Stars will remain open until July 31.

The Grandolfo Award, sponsored by Q’Straint, is its 18th year. Named after Peter Grandolfo, the late Chicago Public Schools transportation director and NAPT board member, the award is presented at STN EXPO West. The Grandolfo award recognizes a school transportation professional who exhibits exemplary service on behalf of the nation’s school children, especially those with disabilities. The application deadline is May 22.

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Related: Garage Star, Rising Star Finalists to Receive Conference Registration Scholarships
Related: Michigan’s Morris Presented with 2025 Grandolfo Award at STN EXPO
Related: Innovator Award Seeks Nominations of Trailblazing School Bus Contractors

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Meanwhile, the fifth annual Innovator of the Year award features a private school bus contractor employee who exemplifies the adoption of cutting-edge technology and programs.

STN presents Innovator of the Year in partnership with the National School Transportation Association. Readers may submit an online nomination through May 1.

Qualifications include making “significant, tangible contributions” to the school transportation industry within the past 12 months. Innovations could include technology implementation, operations, safety initiatives and green energy adoption.

The post Nominations Open for 2026 STN Awards appeared first on School Transportation News.

School Transportation News has opened registration for its fifth-annual Innovator of the Year award, which features a private school bus contractor employee who exemplifies the adoption of cutting-edge technology and programs.

The magazine partners with the National School Transportation Association (NSTA) to present the award. Readers may submit an online nomination through May 1 to recognize an individual who works for a school bus contractor company and meets the criteria.

Qualifications include making “significant, tangible contributions” to the school transportation industry within the past 12 months. Innovations could include technology implementation, operations, safety initiatives and green energy adoption.

“I believe that change begins with the ability to recognize an innovator when you meet one. It is vitally important to share the achievements of our leaders to help elevate our industry. School Transportation News is honored to share this story of innovation with the entire school transportation industry,” said Tony Corpin, publisher of STN magazine and president of STN Media Group.

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Read about & hear podcasts with previous years’ winners:

July 2022: The Great Innovator
(STN Podcast E120) Onsite at STN EXPO Reno: Electric Innovator Pulls Back the Curtain

July 2023: There Is No ‘I’ in Team
(STN Podcast E170) Meet the Innovator of the Year: Maintaining a Fast-Growing Bus Fleet

July 2024: Driven by Students, Driven by Technology, Driven by Partnerships
(STN Podcast E217) From Submariner to Innovator of the Year: Fleet Electrification for Student Success

July 2025: ‘Here to Serve’ People With Technology
(STN Podcast E256) Empathy is a Core Principle: Bringing Funding, Tech & People Together for Student Service

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This year’s winner will be announced on the front cover of the July edition of STN magazine. The award will be presented in-person at both STN EXPO West held July 9-15 in Reno, Nevada, and at the NSTA Summer Meeting held July 19-22 in Denver, Colorado.

“NSTA is proud and pleased to partner with School Transportation News in the promotion of the 2026 Innovator Award. With so many talented individuals in student transportation, we encourage school bus operators to nominate a worthy candidate, so we can honor them with this prestigious award this summer,” stated NSTA Executive Director Curt Macysyn.

“Receiving the Innovator of the Year recognition was a humbling moment that reinforced how much meaningful progress in student transportation comes from people willing to challenge the status quo,” said Gaurav Sharda, CTO of Beacon Mobility and the 2025 Innovator of the Year award winner. “The award represents more than innovation for its own sake. It honors work that improves safety, dignity, and daily experiences for students, families, and the professionals who serve them. I encourage peers across the industry to nominate individuals whose ideas and leadership are quietly making a lasting difference, because their impact deserves to be recognized and shared.”

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Related: Start Your Green Fleet Innovation Strategy
Related: School Bus Contractors Compete in Driver Applicant Pool
Related: School District, Bus Contractor Partnerships Vital When Transporting Special Needs Students

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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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FRISCO, Texas — Keba Baldwin accepted the 2025 Transportation Director of the Year award Saturday during the Transporting Students with Disabilities and Special Needs (TSD) Conference, prior to sitting on a panel relating to safely transporting students with special needs.

Baldwin, the director of transportation and central garage at Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) in Maryland, thanked his mother as well as past and present transportation families.

“I’ve worked in North Carolina. I’ve worked in Virginia. Now, being in Maryland, I cannot go without saying thank you to those team members because what they provided to me was the willingness to share their thoughts, their honesty, their collaboration to help me grow, help them grow,” Baldwin said during his acceptance speech. “There’s a little saying that I always have kept in mind, from my athletic days, ‘you’re only as strong as your weakest person.’ The goal is to build everybody together.”

He thanked those team members for their collaboration and dedication. Addressing his current transportation team at PGCPS, he shared the slogan, “Gorgeous, Prince George’s.”

Baldwin added his team at PGCPS has challenged him to do good things.

“It’s really through your resilience that you have the perseverance,” he said. “These are folks that have been in this industry since day one, since first job out of high school. This is what they’re done for 15 years to 48 years of service. Folks that are in our transportation field and have a strong passion, just like you [all in the audience] have, and so all of this goes to them, because without them, their effort and their push, I’m not here doing this.”

He said it’s the support from various departments that helps drive what transportation does every day. He showed appreciation for his administrative support team, many of whom were in the audience to support him when receiving the award.

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“Then finally, to all of you, this is a great venue. I want to say thank you to STN. Thank you to Blue Bird for just creating an opportunity for us to continue to come together, to network, learn from one another,” he concluded. “Each time we come, you meet new people, you learn new ideas. We need that. That’s how we get stronger. So again, thank you to Tony, STN and Bluebird for all that you do for us, it just makes me feel incredibly humble to accept this award, not only for myself, but for my team members past and present. Even with all of you, we’re going to this work happen for our students that we serve.”

Steven Whaley, alternative fuels manager of award sponsor Blue Bird, introduced Baldwin as a data-driven, technology-savvy director. “It’s my honor to present this award to someone whose career journey is as inspiring as his leadership” he said.

PCGPS transports over 85,000 students, over 4,500 of which are students with special needs transported on the school bus. it is the 10th largest school district in in the U.S.

Baldwin is featured in the November edition of School Transportation News magazine.

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Leadership is one of those words that has been defined, debated and dissected in every business book, training session and coffee shop conversation. At its core, leadership is about the ability to influence others toward achieving a common goal.

But here’s something worth noting: The word leader contains the word lead. Lead means “first,” “ahead,” “top,” and yes, “followed.” That last one, followed, is important. John Maxwell puts it bluntly: “If you are leading and no one is following, then you are not actually leading; you are simply taking a walk.”

That quote captures the essence of leadership, especially in pupil transportation. It is not just about the title, the office or the years of experience. It is about whether your people are choosing to follow you. Because leadership, at its heart, is influence. And in our line of work, that influence can inspire the best in our teams or bring out the worst.

Whether we realize it or not, we set the tone. How we show up directly impacts how our drivers, aides, mechanics, dispatchers, and office staff show up for each other and for the students we serve.

Leading vs. Managing: A Crucial Difference
One of the most common misconceptions is that leadership and management are the same thing. They are related, but they are not interchangeable. Leaders lead people. They inspire, influence and set the vision. Leadership is inherently strategic. It is about where we are going and why. Managers manage things: Tasks, schedules, projects and resources. Management is tactical. It is about how we are going to get there and making sure the wheels, literally and figuratively, keep turning.

The best leaders in transportation know when to step into tactical operations. Yes, sometimes you have to jump in and route a bus or cover a driver shortage. But their greatest value comes from thinking ahead,
setting direction and enabling their teams to succeed without needing constant oversight.

The Influence Factor
Here is the thing: People are influenced far more by what you do than what you say. They are also quick to notice when what you do and what you say do not match up. If you talk about safety but routinely cut corners to make a deadline, your team will notice. If you preach about work-life balance but send late-night emails that demand answers by morning, they will notice that, too.

Influence is built or broken in the everyday moments— how you handle stress, how you treat mistakes and how you acknowledge hard work. In transportation, this influence extends beyond your team to the students and families who depend on you.

Leadership’s Scorecard
One of the best measures of a leader’s effectiveness is not found in a spreadsheet. It is reflected in the success and morale of their team.
If your operation runs smoothly even when you are out of the office, you have built a strong leadership culture. If your people step up for each other during a tough week, you have fostered trust and collaboration. And if your drivers speak about the department with pride when they are in the community, you have influenced not just their work, but their identity.

The Follower-Centric Perspective
When we think about leadership, we often focus on our own style—servant leadership, transformational leadership, authentic leadership, and so on. But here’s a shift worth considering: What if, instead of starting with our leadership style, we started with our followers’ readiness?

We are living in a moment where our workforce spans multiple generations: Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z, each bringing different values, expectations and communication preferences. If we want to recruit and retain people who will show up every day for our students, we cannot just lead the way we have always led. We need to adapt.

Assessing Follower Readiness
Follower readiness is a simple yet powerful concept. It is about understanding whether an employee is willing or unwilling and able or unable.

If they are able and willing, these employees thrive with autonomy. Give them space, recognition and opportunities to grow. If they are able but unwilling, you may need to dig into motivation. Sometimes it is a mismatch between the person and the role, and sometimes it is burnout. If they are unable but willing, they have the heart but need the skills. This is where training, mentoring and hands-on coaching make the difference. If they are unable and unwilling, this is the trickiest group and often the source of HR headaches. Firm expectations, clear accountability and consistent follow-up are key.

Why This Matters for Recruitment and Retention
In transportation, turnover is not just a staffing inconvenience. It impacts safety, reliability and trust. By leading according to follower readiness, you increase job satisfaction because people feel seen and supported. You reduce costly turnover because happy employees often bring in their friends and family. You also build a reputation as a workplace where people want to stay. It is a leadership approach that is both strategic and practical, and it works across generations, backgrounds and personality types.

Less Stress, Greater Impact
When leaders adopt a follower-centric approach, understanding ability and willingness, and adapting style accordingly, they lead with greater impact and less stress. It takes the guesswork out of daily interactions. It
creates a culture of fairness and consistency. And it garners respect from those watching, whether they are new hires, veteran drivers, or even the students on the bus.

In the end, leadership in pupil transportation is about far more than filling routes and managing schedules. It is about influence; how we show up, how we adapt and how we inspire others to not just follow, but to join us in moving the mission forward. Because if no one is following, you are not leading. You are just out there taking a walk.

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

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For the past 10 years, School Transportation News has requested nominations of student transporters who are demonstrating leadership or innovation in their school bus operations but may not have received the public or industry-wide recognition they deserve. Ten individuals are highlighted in the November issue of the magazine.

Nicole Brown
Bus Driver/Training & Safety Coordinator
Burnt Hills/Ballston Lake Transportation, New York
I am recommending Nicole Brown as a candidate for a nominee as a Rising Star. Nicole started her employment with Burnt Hills/Ballston Lake in 2007 as a substitute school bus driver. Over the years, she has been an exceptional school bus driver showing patience and guidance to all of her students. Her driving record is exemplary. She later became our SBDI instructor and 19A trainer, and is now our training and safety coordinator as well. Nicole has guided our new staff into successful driving tests results and is continually working on improving our safety and knowledge with our ever changing DMV and federal
guidelines.

Paul Ahn
Senior General Manager
Zūm – Seattle, Washington and San Francisco, California
Paul Ahn serves as senior general manager at Zūm, where he oversees operations for Seattle Public Schools and San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD).
Since joining Zūm in 2022 as general manager — he was the company’s first employee in Seattle, where he built the bus yard from the ground up — Ahn has demonstrated superior management and leadership skills. This year Ahn moved into a senior leadership role, where he now also oversees Zūm’s team in San Francisco.
In recent months, Ahn has overseen Zūm’s expansion in Seattle, which includes a second bus yard. In San Francisco, Ahn added 300 bus drivers.
“Paul has truly been a game changer for SF operations,” said Tomas Beccar Varela, interim executive director of student transportation for SFUSD. “His professionalism and extensive experience have raised the bar for our entire team. Paul consistently approaches challenges with a solution-oriented mindset, always focusing on actionable plans that move us forward. His attention to detail is evident in everything he does, and it’s clear that he takes great pride in delivering quality results.”
Other achievements include managing about 250 drivers and serving on a committee to help train and support new managers. Ahn is a respected leader and ensures there are opportunities for career growth on his team. He works hard to promote diversity and inclusion; for example, he created a nondenominational religious observance room at the Seattle bus yard. “I want everyone to feel included,” he said.
Ahn excels in handling the challenges and high-level coordination his job requires and credits some of this to his experience working at FedEx and in the hotel industry. His positive, driver-first work culture focuses on communication and keeping drivers safe and comfortable with all the tools and training they need.

Fred Amstutz
Lead Mechanic/School Bus Driver
Post School District #273, Idaho
Fred serves as our lead mechanic. I frequently highlight the value of having more team members who possess his qualities. He consistently maintains a positive attitude, demonstrates a strong willingness to learn and actively shares his knowledge with others. His work ethic is exemplary. Additionally, he volunteers his time to his church and community. I would like to recognize him as a highly valuable member of our team.
Fred is a key component to the success of our daily operation. Not only does he have the knowledge and expertise to handle all of the mechanical issues that arise with our fleet of 49 vehicles, he is the first to volunteer for extra service to our department. Anything from barbecuing the burgers to driving our bus in the local parade, to doing a sports trip, to running a bus route. Fred is easy to approach and listens attentively to drivers concerns about the buses. Fred takes directive well, yet is never hesitant to use his own voice when asked for input. Our respect for and appreciation of Fred is heartfelt.

Debra Ard
Transportation Supervisor
Orangeburg County School District, South Carolina
Mrs. Debra Ard exemplifies the qualities of a rising star in student transportation through her exceptional leadership, dedication and decades-long commitment to student safety and operational excellence. With more than 40 years of service—spanning roles as a teacher’s assistant, bus driver, driver trainer, and currently as transportation supervisor for Orangeburg County School District—Mrs. Ard has demonstrated unmatched resilience, adaptability and professional growth.
Her outstanding contributions were recently recognized when she was nominated for and awarded the 2024–2025 South Carolina Association of Pupil Transportation (SCAPT) Administrator of the Year, presented at SCAPT’s 50th Anniversary Conference in July 2025. This prestigious honor reflects her impactful leadership, her ability to foster collaboration among staff and her consistent efforts to improve transportation operations for the benefit of students and families.
Mrs. Ard is known for her integrity, compassion, and unwavering focus on student-centered service. She leads with humility while inspiring excellence in others, creating a culture of trust, accountability and continuous improvement. Her commitment to operational efficiency, staff development and safety innovation has elevated the performance and morale of her department. Through her vision, experience and genuine care for people, Mrs. Ard not only meets expectations—she consistently exceeds them. Her proven record of accomplishments, recent state-level recognition, and exemplary leadership make her a deserving candidate for the STN Rising Transportation Star honor.

LaTedra Bailey
Director of Transportation
Huffman ISD, Texas
I am pleased to recommend Ms. Bailey for recognition, as she has demonstrated exceptional leadership and resilience in her role as a new director. She has worked diligently to build up the department while rebuilding the trust of both staff and the community. Her positivity, willingness to help at all times, and ability to foster teamwork have significantly increased morale. Despite facing serious challenges such as ongoing construction issues and driver shortages, Ms. Bailey has overcome these obstacles with grace and determination, setting a strong foundation for continued success.

Travis Bean
Bus Mechanic
Carroll Consolidated School Corporation, Indiana
Travis Bean has revamped and organized bus garage upon hiring. He has great response and rapport with bus drivers and transportation contacts at each building in our corporation and has improved first visit state inspection passing rates to at or nearly perfect on an annual basis. Travis created a pit stop area for the “Kindy 500” for kindergartners to repair their cardboard boxes during race day at the end of the year and decorates school buses with the Christmas theme for our annual Flora Christmas Parade. He assists in cost saving measures with transportation such as route creation/updates and reducing fuel consumption and helps as needed with snow removal and other winter related tasks.

Lauren Beaty
Grants and Engagement Manager
Blue Bird Corporation, Georgia
Lauren started with Blue Bird around three years ago and was enlisted with reimagining our community efforts and managing all grant and EPA related projects. She single-handedly reinstated our charitable foundations and took on several grant related projects that led to our award of the MESC Grant in 2025. Lauren is a strong leader with a true and honest passion for the community and what we strive for at Blue Bird. She is always a positive sounding board for others and never hesitates to lend a hand. She believes that a company has a duty to it’s community and employees and works hard to ensure that Blue Bird continues to grow it’s roots, not only here in Georgia but nationwide.

Russell Bergeron
Mechanic
Marysville Joint Unified School District, California
Works hard and helps others when not asked to. When theres slow day he cleans the shop without being told, always stays busy.

William Bramblette III
Transportation/Maintenance Director
Heath City Schools, Ohio
Transportation: Implemented Tyler technology routing system with tablets for all student transportation. Purchased a new 2025 International wheelchair bus, purchased a new 2024 Isuzu box truck for transporting band instruments and props and a used 2018 Micro Blue Bird school bus. Updated the RCI real-time camera system with Wi-Fi capability on all fleet vehicles.
Maintenance: Replaced all heating and cooling in our Heath Middle School and Heath High School, updated playground layouts, repaired all heaters and thermostats in transportation garage with regular maintenance contract will all buildings. Updated all toiletry contract with Cintas, including items for mechanics and bus drivers.
Leadership traits: Communication, dedication, integrity, confident and resilient.

Micah Brassfield
Vice President of Operations
TransPar, Nationwide (Texas-based)
Building upon a family legacy of excellence in student transportation, Micah exhibits a rare and exceptional combination of professionalism, expertise, and passion for her work. Inspired by her father’s four decades (and counting!) of service in student transportation, Micah developed an understanding early on of both the operational complexities and the critical role transportation plays in a student’s educational journey. As the vice president of TransPar, every recommendation Micah makes to our clients and every action she takes in her work reflects her unwavering commitment to safety, operational excellence and support for students, educational leaders and the communities she serves. Her dedication to these core principles has allowed her to support hundreds of school districts across the U.S., annually, with implementing improvements to their transportation operations long term.
Beginning her career as an educator, Micah’s approach to student transportation is driven by a deep appreciation for equitable access to education, an insight that continues to shape her student-first approach. This perspective has made her not only a powerful advocate for student transportation, but also a compassionate, solutions-driven leader who empowers those around her while fostering a culture grounded in humility and mutual respect.
Micah is, without question, one of the most knowledgeable professionals in the field of student transportation. Yet what truly sets her apart is her authenticity, integrity and the admirable way she leads—by example, with both conviction and heart.

Michael E Brown
Founder/President/CEO
Michael’s Transportation Service, Inc., California
Why Michael E. Brown Should Be Considered for This Recognition
1. Founder and Visionary Leader
Michael E. Brown is the founder and CEO of Michael’s Transportation Service, Inc., an Employee-Owned Company that has been safely serving California’s students, seniors, and communities since 1982. Under his leadership, the company has grown from a single bus to a fleet recognized statewide for excellence in safety, reliability, and professionalism.
2. Commitment to Workforce Development and Second Chances
Through the establishment of MTS Training Academy, Inc., Michael created a pathway for thousands of individuals—including returning citizens and underserved populations—to become licensed, trained, and gainfully employed in the commercial driving industry. His academy is a beacon of economic empowerment and social impact, certified by the State of California and respected across the workforce development community.
3. Positive Leadership Traits
Servant Leadership: Michael Brown leads with humility, heart, and a deep commitment to people over profit.
Faith-Driven Vision: His values shape the culture of both MTS and the Academy, placing integrity, accountability, and purpose at the forefront.
Mentorship & Legacy Building: He actively mentors leaders within and beyond his company, positioning the next generation—including family—toward sustainable success.
Resilience & Innovation:.From navigating economic downturns to expanding training opportunities, he has shown enduring strength and adaptability.
4. Awards and Recognitions*
Recently acclaimed Contractor of the Year for 2025 by the National School Bus Fleet Magazine
Honored by state and local officials for **outstanding contributions to workforce development
Recognized by churches and nonprofits for faith-based leadership and service
Celebrated for over four decades of safe, student-centered transportation
5. Legacy of Excellence and Impact
Michael Brown has created more than a company—he’s built a legacy rooted in faith, family, and freedom through the company ESOP. His leadership has touched lives across California, restored dignity to the overlooked, and created economic mobility for countless families.

Bernando Brown
Director, Student Transportation
DeKalb County School District, Georgia
Bernando C. Brown exemplifies what it means to be a rising star in student transportation leadership. Though his impact spans years of service, his approach to the work, the culture he builds and the systems he implements reflect a leader who is just getting started in terms of influence and innovation.
Since assuming the role of director of student transportation for DeKalb County School District, Georgia’s third-largest school system, Bernando has transformed how transportation is led, measured, and aligned to student outcomes.
He has rebuilt the department’s leadership structure to focus on performance accountability and team development, created and delivered original leadership training series aligned with district priorities, elevated recruitment and retention through targeted initiatives, mentorship models and a focus on purpose-driven work culture, spearheaded strategic upgrades in fleet modernization and service delivery systems and championed student safety through operational readiness practices modeled after his military background.
Bernando’s leadership style is straightforward, transparent and built on mutual respect. He challenges his team to think critically, solve problems and lead with integrity. He doesn’t micromanage, he equips.
He was recently honored as the Metro RESA Transportation Director of the Year for SY 2025, a recognition that reflects the impact he has had not only in DeKalb but across the state through professional development, mentorship and strategic partnerships. He also serves on several advisory boards and regularly contributes to statewide initiatives and national conversations. In every setting, Bernando leads with clarity, urgency, and compassion. He doesn’t seek the spotlight, but his work speaks volumes.

Lyle Campbell
Operations Director
Amanda-Clearcreek Local Schools, Ohio
It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend Lyle Campbell as a rising star in the field of school transportation. In a remarkably short period of time, Lyle has made a lasting impact on our district through a combination of innovation, leadership and an unwavering commitment to students, families, and staff.
One of Lyle’s most impressive accomplishments was vetted, selected and implemented a new district-wide routing software—a feat in itself—but what sets him apart is that he personally routed over 1,100 students during winter break in his very first year on the job. This not only speaks to his work ethic, but also to his deep understanding of operational logistics and dedication to ensuring a smooth return to school for families and drivers alike.
In his pursuit of transparency and access, Lyle has opened up routing information to other district departments and to families, allowing both staff and parents to view bus assignments and real-time pickup and drop-off times. This has improved communication, reduced confusion, and increased confidence in our transportation system.
Lyle has also revamped the district’s bus maintenance program, introducing more proactive practices that have both reduced costly breakdowns and saved the district significant funds. He has secured grants and other funding sources to upgrade their aging bus camera systems and provide GPS-enabled tablets for substitute drivers, making their fleet safer and more efficient.
But Lyle’s greatest contribution goes beyond logistics and equipment—it’s the relationships he has built. He has worked hard to foster trust and open lines of communication with parents and students, making pupil management and bus stop safety top priorities. He demonstrates genuine compassion for his drivers, supporting them with difficult student situations and offering guidance and practical solutions rooted in empathy and respect.
He is also visible and accessible, regularly attending student sporting events and community activities, and always making time to speak with parents and residents who have questions or concerns. Perhaps most admirably, Lyle leads with humility—taking ownership and accountability, even when challenges arise that are beyond his direct control.
In every way, Lyle Campbell embodies what it means to be a dedicated and forward-thinking leader in school transportation. His blend of innovation, integrity and human connection sets him apart, and I have no doubt he will continue to accomplish great things in this field.

Brian Churovia
Transportation Director
Montour School District, Pennsylvania
In January 2023, Brian inherited a transportation department in shambles. Twenty-six out of his 60 buses failed state inspection within his first year. The department was also using routing technology that was so outdated they could no longer update it. Over the past two and a half years, Brian has updated the routing software to Athena Edulog, he has flipped the fleet and purchased 22 new vehicles while getting rid of 26 buses. He updated the cameras in the buses, radios, added GPS to half the buses so far and launched a parent portal app to allow parents to track their kids buses to and from school. In less than three years, Brian has taken an outdated, rusty old fleet and taken them to a new level where Montour can be proud and parents can feel safe and well provided for as their students go to and from school.

Carlos Cunningham
Delegated Behind the Wheel Trainer/Bus Driver
Lodi Unified School District, California
Carlos is the picture of what positive leadership traits are. His quiet confidence and quick creativeness ways in finding a positive solution, when brainstorming a problem. Carlos excels in every new task that he is given. Carlos is a quick learner and eager to learn new things. Carlos promotes positivity with his peers and co-worker when engaging in conversation.
When Carlos is training, he is soft spoken, relaxed and patient with the person he is training. This makes the trainee very comfortable. Carlos is going to the academy in Sacramento California to become a state certified instructor in January 2026.
Carlos was nominated employee of the year 2023-2024.

Tiffany Dameron
School Bus Operations Manager
National Trails School Bus, Detroit, Michigan
Tiffany Dameron has served as a leader within the pupil transportation industry for nearly a decade! Within this timeframe, she has excelled in the positions of dispatch supervisor, terminal manager, and, currently, school bus operations manager. In her role as school bus operations manager, Tiffany oversees the daily operations of Detroit Public School Community District’s second largest pupil transportation provider, National Trails School Bus, LLC, which serves the district’s total student population of 52,000, the largest in the State of Michigan. Along with her staff of 200 employees, including a safety director, dispatch supervisors, school bus drivers, school bus aides, sedan drivers, and mechanics, Tiffany ensures all of the DPSCD’s pupils entrusted to National Trails School Bus, LLC arrive to and from school each day safely and soundly!
According to National Trails School Bus, LLC’s Human Resources Director Matthew Shad, Tiffany is so successful in her role as school bus operations manager because she is not afraid to take initiative! He said, “Tiffany has embraced new technology and is using it as intended to create greater efficiencies and streamline processes. For example, with regard to our payroll system, Paylocity, Tiffany started utilizing the software to communicate to employees status changes without waiting for direction. Further, there have been lots of recent changes, and new processes have been developed and implemented relative to safety reporting. Tiffany has embraced these new processes and has worked to ensure that they have been applied properly and timely. Finally, regardless of what the topic/item/issue is, when I make initial contact to discuss this with Tiffany, she is already aware of the circumstances, which indicates she has her ‘finger on the pulse,’ and this is critical to operational excellence.”

Dawn Davalos
School Bus Driver
Byron-Bergen CSD, NY
Dawn has been driving school bus with our district for 20 years. She was chosen as “Professional Transportation of Year” this year. She has outstanding attendance! Dawn has always been willing to help, whether its in the office answering phones, bus routing for the summer or driving sports runs. She is great with all of her children and takes the time to get to know each and everyone. Dawn is constantly getting positive emails from parents, coaches and coaches from other districts.

Jose De La Garza
Fleet Supervisor
Katy ISD, Texas
Jose De Le Garza is an outstanding example of an up-and-coming leader in the school transportation industry. Although relatively new to the student transportation world, Jose has quickly made a significant impact since joining Katy ISD just over a year ago. With a background in municipal fleet maintenance—trading fire engines for school buses—Jose brought fresh eyes, sharp instincts and a strong commitment to safety and service.
In that short time, he has risen from mechanic to shop foreman and now serves as fleet supervisor, a reflection of his leadership ability, technical expertise and dedication to excellence. Jose identified and corrected numerous safety concerns upon arrival, dramatically improved shop morale and created an environment where mechanics are empowered, respected and motivated to do their best work.
What sets Jose apart is his people-first leadership style. He leads by example, never hesitating to get his hands dirty, and he actively mentors his team to help them grow professionally. He’s deeply committed to education and is preparing to begin teaching with a local technician training organization—further extending his impact beyond his district.
Jose may have flown under the radar until now, but his work and leadership speak volumes. He is exactly the kind of emerging leader this industry needs—and deserves to be recognized for the difference he’s already making.

Kim Ellis
Director of Transportation
Marietta City Schools, Georgia
Kim has led the transportation department for Marietta City Schools for 14 years. During that time, she has also served and directed several school transportation related organizations on the state and national level. Mrs. Ellis has created a cohesive and organized department which thrives off a culture that is second to none. Her department is frequently meeting through team-bonding activities, and she is focused on the recognition of those in her department. Kim has employed various apps and user-friendly platforms for our community, and her commitment to working with our school-based administration on safety and security serves as a model for other districts.

Savannah Fernandez
Director of Risk, Safety & Training
Star Shuttle, LLC, Texas
Savannah exemplifies the qualities of a rising superstar in the transportation field through a blend of technical excellence, visionary leadership and a steadfast commitment to innovation and equity. Her contributions have already begun to shape the future of transportation, making her a standout candidate for this recognition.
Savannah led the successful planning and implementation of Star Shuttle’s new unique out of the box training program for its school bus drivers to receive their annual refresher training prior to the start of this school year. Star provided lunch while Savannah and the training team conducted team building through School Bus Jeopardy. With quirky driving trivia (courtesy of trivia learned at the 2025 STN EXPO West) and quick-fire questions, it had everyone laughing, learning and showing off their knowledge. This new training platform helped Star’s drivers build confidence, reconnect with fellow drivers and genuinely enjoy the training experience. By the end of the session, every driver left with a refreshed understanding of safety and driving protocols, a few great prizes, and most importantly – a big smile and some unforgettable memories.
She was also part of Star’s safety innovation and sustainability team spearheaded by Star’s CEO, John Walker. The Safety innovation team helped integrate emerging technologies to connect AI-driven safety monitoring of its drivers to increase driver and passenger safety. Through Savannah’s leadership, Star Shuttle has earned multiple safety awards from the National Safety Council over the years including the most recent 2025 Innovative Practices in Traffic Safety award. Star’s sustainability team aimed at reducing transportation-related emissions by implementing a company idling goal and bonus incentive for low idle times which was led by Savannah and has been successful.
Savannah’s positive leadership is collaborative, visionary and inclusive. She fosters an engaging safety culture and is respected for her mentorship and people focused approach. She is not only excelling in her current role but is also setting a new standard for what the next generation of transportation leaders can achieve. Her innovative work, dedication to equity and sustainability, and ability to inspire others makes her an ideal candidate for the Rising Transportation Superstar award.

Stephanie Fussell
Director of Operations
Buckled In, Virginia
Stephanie leads a team of transportation professionals who get some of the most challenging students to school safely everyday across the country. A former educator, she moved into the transportation world to help improve a situation she identified as needing improvement. By applying her education and business skills to the transportation challenge, she has helped to redefine Buckled In’s process and has helped to support thousands of families each day.
This year she took the company and its ability to support schools and families to the next level leading a technology upgrade that has positioned her team in a rest place for meeting needs. The new operational platform she helped to design and build is now providing realtime ride information to families and schools and has created routing and communication efficiencies that are lower in transportation costs. Her tireless energy and commitment to her team is paying dividends for all involved and is paving the way for new alternative transportation solutions.

Jennifer Gardella
Director of Transportation
Rockwall ISD, Texas
Accomplishments:
In 2024-2025, We trained 24 drivers that earned their CDL, completed 1,820 trips, completed 30,951 shuttles, completed 17,442 routes, Campuses have helped support drivers with over 616 Bus Conduct concerns, and We completed 5,643 midday/speech routes. Featured in School BusRide in March 2025 as a Member Spotlight. NTAPT Historian for 2023-2024 and Web Master for 2024-2025
Leadership traits: Developing team members so that when they’re ready to take on leadership roles, they have the skills and confidence to succeed. Being a strong mentor for her to so they grown individually but also as a team.Invests in training, mentoring, and recognizing bus drivers and transportation staff, building a cohesive and motivated team.
Streamlines transportation systems to ensure punctual, reliable, and cost-effective service. Uses data and feedback to make informed decisions that improve service delivery.

Amanda Gibson
Bus Driver
Upper Lake Unified School District, California
Amanda is a gem! She is always at work with a smile on her face and she never misses a day of work. She loves her job and the students she transports. She has the cleanest and [most] well-behaved bus. It is a direct reflection of the love and support she shows her students and bus. Amanda is always helpful when supplying vehicles for sports and she takes pride in making sure the vans are clean for our students and staff. She is also very funny. We tell her all the time that she should do stand up comedy! I respect and appreciate Amanda every day and am super blessed to have her on my team. She deserves all the praise that can be offered to her! I know winning this award would make her year! She is a true leader and an amazing human. Thank you for taking the time to read this. There are so many wonderful things about Amanda that I could go on and on!

Ramona Gonzalez
Operations Supervisor
Klein ISD, Texas
Ramona Gonzalez has quickly distinguished herself as one of Klein ISD transportation’s brightest rising stars. In addition to excelling in her daily responsibilities, she has taken on the critical role of third-party tester, ensuring that new drivers are held to the highest standards of safety and compliance. Her professionalism, knowledge, and attention to detail have made her an invaluable asset to our team and a trusted resource for colleagues.
Key Contributions & Strengths: Certified Third-Party Tester: Administers driving evaluations with fairness and consistency, ensuring all drivers meet state and district safety requirements. Safety advocate: Reinforces best practices through thorough evaluations, setting high expectations that strengthen our entire transportation program. Operational reliability: Dependable in every assignment, demonstrating precision in route execution and a proactive approach to challenges. Mentorship & support: Encourages and guides new drivers through the testing process, easing nerves while still upholding rigorous standards. Professional growth: Continues to expand her expertise, showing a commitment to both personal development and the advancement of her department.
Her impact includes: Raised the level of driver readiness by conducting comprehensive evaluations that prioritize student safety. Enhanced the confidence of new drivers through supportive, professional testing experiences. Reinforced Klein ISD’s reputation for excellence in transportation by ensuring all certified drivers are highly prepared.third-party tester reflects not only her technical expertise but also her integrity, fairness, and dedication to our mission. Colleagues describe her as approachable, thorough, and an inspiration to those entering the profession.
I am honored to nominate Ramona Gonzalez as a Rising Transportation Superstar. Her dual contributions as a transportation professional and certified third-party tester highlight her as both a role model and a future leader in school transportation.

Brittney Hardin
Operations Manager
New Albany Floyd County Schools, Indiana
Prior to my arrival as director of transportation, Ms Hardin as administrative assistant at to the department took the helm and lead the department with the successful ending of the 2024-2025 school year. As I arrived and restructured the department she applied for and [was] promoted to the department’s operation manager. She continues to strive for excellence and think of ways that can better the department by bringing out of the box thinking on how we can bring people into the department faster, revamping our programs and streamline our overall goals of becoming more effective and efficient department. She is also eager to learn and use that knowledge to become a positive member of the transportation team.

Lynnette Harper
Field Supervisor
Norfolk City Public Schools, Virginia
After being a driver for many years Ms. Harper became a supervisor. She is always available to her colleagues and her drivers and assistants who she oversees. She ensures that all of her buses are running smoothly and safely. She never leaves a conversation without letting me know I am doing a great job and making me feel valued.

Brian Herrell
Director of Transportation
South Western School District, Pennsylvania
Brian has faithfully served in his role as transportation director for the past five years, and during that time, he has exemplified leadership, innovation and unwavering commitment to student success and staff well-being.
Brian’s leadership was put to the test from the moment he joined the district—at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. He quickly adapted to extraordinary circumstances, adjusting transportation routes, implementing a system to sanitize buses between runs and collaborating closely with building principals to maintain instructional schedules despite ever-changing transportation challenges. His ability to lead during crisis demonstrated not only his logistical acumen but also his calm under pressure and his focus on student safety and learning continuity.
In the years since, Brian has navigated the persistent challenge of a shrinking workforce and an ongoing driver shortage. Despite these obstacles, he has continued to deliver exceptional service, often stepping into the driver’s seat himself to ensure that no route goes unfilled. His visibility and dedication have earned the respect of his team and the trust of the broader school community.
Brian is a fierce advocate for his transportation staff. He has consistently championed improved working conditions and sought additional benefits for drivers and mechanics. Under his leadership, the district maintains a modern fleet with excellent inspection records, with few buses ever sidelined for maintenance or safety issues.
Beyond day-to-day operations, Brian embodies what it means to be a collaborative leader. He regularly attends board meetings to provide insight and advocate for district-wide needs. He meets with township officials to coordinate around road projects, and his expertise in routing software has made him a valued resource not only in our district but across the county—other schools have sought his guidance as they implement similar systems.
Brian truly redefines what a transportation director can and should be. His passion for his job is unmistakable—he frequently shares how much he loves his work, and it shows in every aspect of his performance. His deep knowledge, dedication to students and staff, and commitment to excellence make him an outstanding candidate for this honor.
It is with great pride and confidence that I submit this nomination for Brian. He is an invaluable asset to our district and to the educational community at large. I would be more than happy to provide additional information in support of his nomination.

Tina Hockaday
Supervisor of Transportation
Harford County Public Schools, Maryland
It is with great pride and admiration that I nominate Tina Hockaday for the Rising Transportation SuperStar Award. Her journey within our school system, Harford County Public Schools (HCPS), is a true testament to dedication, perseverance, and a passion for student transportation excellence.
Starting her career as a school bus driver, Tina quickly distinguished herself through her reliability, professionalism and deep care for the students she transported each day. Her commitment to safety and service led her to take on greater responsibilities, and she was promoted to the role of transportation coordinator. In this position, she demonstrated exceptional organizational skills, a talent for problem-solving and trained hundreds of people to become certified HCPS school bus drivers and attendants.
Now serving as our supervisor of transportation, Tina continues to lead with integrity, innovation and with a safety mindset for our students, drivers, attendants, schools, and the community. What makes her journey even more inspiring is her decision to return to school to further her education—an effort that reflects her unwavering commitment to personal and professional growth. Her academic achievements have directly contributed to her effectiveness as a leader and her ability to implement forward-thinking strategies that benefit our HCPS school community.
Tina is not only a rising star in transportation—she is a role model for others in the field. Her story is one of hard work, continuous learning, and a deep-rooted dedication to making a difference. I can think of no one more deserving of this recognition.

Eric Huegerich
Senior General Manager
Zūm – San Bernardino and Palm Springs, California
As senior general manager of Zūm’s operations in San Bernardino and Palm Springs, California, Eric Huegerich is a collaborative leader and skillful communicator who takes pride in creating a supportive work environment and giving back to the community.
This year Huegerich was promoted to a senior leadership position, overseeing Zūm’s operations in San Bernardino City Unified and Palm Springs Unified school districts. Notably, he has focused on solving the school bus driver shortages in both markets, which are now fully staffed. In Palm Springs, where Zūm recently launched its partnership with the district, Eric oversees 90 drivers and 40 attendants, all of whom were hired, onboarded, and trained before the start of the 2025-26 school year.
Huegerich listens to team members’ ideas and concerns and truly values the communities he serves. He has taken the lead on several local initiatives for Zūm, including a holiday toy drive and an event in partnership with CHiPs for Kids and Ronald McDonald House to donate bicycles to children in need.
Prior to joining Zūm in 2023, Huegerich worked in transportation and logistics at Amazon, Hertz and in the private jet industry. He says what attracted him to student transportation was doing “something that mattered.”
Other accomplishments include:
Managing Zūm’s expansion in San Bernardino, where Huegerich now oversees 220+ drivers, 100+ attendants and 60+ additional routes.
Training 100+ brand new drivers in-house in the last year.
Leading Zūm’s launch in Palm Springs Unified School District, where a longstanding driver shortage was solved before the 2025-26 school year. Local news station KESQ recently spoke with Huegerich about Zūm’s preparation.
Co-designing a “shadow program” that pairs new school bus drivers with a cover driver or trainer so they feel 100% comfortable with their routes by the time they start driving on their own.
Having no major safety incidents or concerns for the entire 2024-2025 school year.
When he’s not working, Huegerich enjoys spending time with his family and coaching little league baseball.

Dusty Hurley
Bus Driver
USD 252, Kansas
Dusty Hurley is a true unsung hero of USD 252. He’s an outstanding bus driver who does far more than just get students from point A to point B—he builds meaningful relationships with students, parents, teachers, coaches, and administrators alike. His calm presence, reliability, and care for kids make him a trusted figure in our school community.
Dusty drives regular morning and afternoon routes, and he’s also behind the wheel for most athletic events and field trips—always dependable, always ready. But his contribution doesn’t stop there. When he’s not driving, you’ll find him supporting students as a para-educator or pitching in with maintenance projects around the district.
No task is too small, and no job is beneath him. Dusty is willing to help in any way he can, always putting the needs of others before his own. His work ethic is unmatched, his attitude is humble, and his impact is lasting.
We’re grateful for all he does—quietly, consistently and with heart.

Malikah Jenkins
Head Bus Driver/Supervisor of Transportation Atlantic County
State of NJ- Department of Children and Families, New Jersey
Malikah started with us as a part-time bus driver in May 2022. She has always done her job and extra tasks without hesitation and with a smile on her face. She is a quiet person and normally keeps to herself. Her supervisor recently retired and the position was posted as a promotional opportunity. She was hesitate to apply because she felt unsure about her capabilities and unsure she would be successful as a supervisor. I had a conversation with her tried to get her to see her potential. I encouraged her to trust her instincts and told her that she was more than capable of the position responsibilities. I told her the worst thing in life someone can say to you is no. Do not ever let fear and uncertainty hold you back from an opportunity. She applied and was promoted to supervisor of transportation in Atlantic County.
She has read every policy and follows them like a guidebook. She communicates with her staff verbally and in writing like a seasoned professional. She meets with her staff regularly and helps redirect her staff when necessary. She encourages her staff and makes a point to praise when they are doing a great job. She has outstanding customer service communication skills with districts, parents/ guardians and staff. She has been a rising star and has a deep desire to learn and retains what she has learned. She comes to me and asks for advice and how to handle situations she hasn’t dealt with yet. Most importantly she takes that advice and implements it into her supervision. She has a desire to learn and has demonstrated outstanding leadership in a very short amount of time she has been a supervisor. Please accept my nomination for Malikah Jenkins.

Craig Kirkpatrick
Supervisor of Transportation
Chambersburg Area School District, Pennsylvania
Craig is one of the hardest working individuals that I have had the pleasure of working with at CASD. He goes to all lengths to ensure our almost 10,000 students are transported to and from school safely. He has been known to put his on tasks on hold, to fill in as a special needs bus aide. This is one example of being a hands on leaders. Our fleet of buses travels on average 10,000 per day.
During the past year, Craig led the way in soliciting new transportation software that will assist the District in accomplishing our vision of 2030 Schools of Distinction. The software will be a vital part in grade reconfiguration from K-5, 6-8, 9-12 to K-3, 4-6, 7-8, 9-12 and assist in reassigning students from three to four shuttered schools. Without Craig’s leadership to pursue a new transportation software, the task of reconfiguration and reassignment would have been burdensome.

David LaMotte
Transportation Director
Troup ISD, Texas
David LaMotte serves as the transportation director for Troup ISD and currently holds the position of president of the East Texas Chapter of the Texas Association for Pupil Transportation (TAPT). His unwavering dedication to student transportation and his commitment to supporting both his team and the broader educational community make him an exceptional candidate for this recognition.
David is widely regarded as a trusted expert in transportation logistics and mechanical operations. He consistently goes above and beyond to assist not only his own staff but also colleagues across neighboring school districts. His collaborative spirit and technical knowledge make him a go-to resource for problem-solving and innovation in school transportation.
As a passionate advocate for professional development, David actively promotes TAPT initiatives, regional chapter events, and other learning opportunities that benefit school districts. Under his leadership, the East Texas Chapter has flourished, hosting well-attended meetings, featuring impactful speakers, and maintaining a vibrant email network that fosters knowledge-sharing among members and vendors.
David’s influence extends beyond transportation. He has contributed to presentations with the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB), offering valuable insights into the unique challenges and opportunities faced by small school districts. He regularly disseminates critical updates on legislation and policy changes, such as SB 546, the recently passed Texas law mandating seat belts on school buses, ensuring that districts remain informed and compliant.
In regions like East Texas, where many districts are small and often under-recognized, leaders like David play a pivotal role. His ability to elevate the voices of smaller communities, advocate for equitable resources, and build strong professional networks exemplifies the qualities of a Rising Superstar.

Toni Lawson
Lead driver
Loudoun County Public Schools, Virginia
Toni has been a fantastic lead driver for lcps for many years. She is professional, knowledgeable and kind. She cares deeply for the students of LCPS and leads her drivers with kindness and respect.

Robin Lumos
Transportation Supervisor/Trainer
Nye County School District, Nevada
Robin started as a Bus Aide in 2013. She earner her CDL in 2018 and was a sub bus driver until 2021, when she became a State of Nevada certified bus driver trainer. She updated and streamlined the districts training program and assisted including the new ELDT training requirements. She single handedly modernized our [special education] training and equipment, including annual testing/certification for use. She helped make recommendations for updating the State of Nevada School Bus Driver Training Manual related to the new training requirements and documentation. In November 2022, she received her Nevada CMV Third-Party Examiner Certification. In July 2024, Robin was hired as our transportation supervisor/trainer. She leads the training section of the department as well as splitting duty of overall daily operations with the other supervisor. Her quiet and calm demeanor and empathy toward our employees has provided a a smoother operational tempo and helped increase employee engagement.

Robin McCarter
Teacher/Bus Driver
Eustace ISD, TX
Robin has been working for our district for many years. She chose to start driving for the transportation department over 12 years ago. Robin goes above and beyond to make sure every student get to and from school safely and makes sure each student that rides her bus knows they are valued and loved. She is one of the top notch drivers for our district always following through with every task assigned with a smile on her face.

Brittnea Melton
Bus Driver
Maconaquah School Corporation, Indiana
Brittnea came to us wanting to learn how to drive a school bus so she could stay on the same schedule as her personal children attending school. Not only was she a quick learner on how to handle the bus she also quickly learned how to maintain discipline on the buses while showing grace and kindness in stressful situations. She has become a leader with the older drivers helping them with technology that has been implemented on the buses through tablets. Anything I’ve asked of her she has gone above and beyond. If you’ve ever been a bus driver then you know somethings can’t be taught and some people just are a natural. She has the qualities that are hard to come by these days. She is seizure and CPR trained! Maconaquah School Corporation values her greatly.

Raymond Montoya
Transportation/Safety Supervisor
Sheridan School District 2, Colorado
I am proud to nominate Raymond Montoya, supervisor of transportation and safety for Sheridan School District 2, for STN’s 2025 Rising Transportation SuperStar recognition. Raymond exemplifies what it means to lead with integrity, vision, and an unwavering commitment to student safety and success.
Since taking on his leadership role, Raymond has implemented critical improvements in routing efficiency, driver training, and safety protocols—significantly reducing route delays and increasing on-time performance across the district. He played a key role in launching a student-focused transportation communication system that has enhanced transparency and built greater trust with families. His collaborative approach has fostered stronger partnerships between transportation, school leadership, and the broader community.
Raymond’s leadership is defined by his calm professionalism, solution-oriented mindset, and sincere dedication to serving students and staff. His presence is felt not only in the day-to-day logistics but also in the care he shows to every driver, every student, and every family who depends on safe and reliable school transportation.
Our entire district is better because of Raymond’s leadership, and we believe he is truly deserving of this recognition.

Tammy Muehsam
School Bus Driver
Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District, California
Very positive even on the hard hectic days. Fun/ friendly positive to everyone she comes in contact with. Not a bad word to say about anyone. She gets different routes and situation thrown at her, she always has a smile and gets through the day. A positive smile, kind heart that you can always count on when.and if your day isn’t going so well. She’s there to talk you through.

Diane Nale
Routing and Logistics Manager
New Albany Floyd County Schools, Indiana
This past summer she was the only router for the department. She routed the entire district as fast as possible and ensuring our students with IEPs and general education students were on buses for the first day of school. With the departure of the special needs router she gladly accepted the responsibility to become the special needs router that lead to the general education router to become vacant. With her 17 years of experience of routing assisted her to ensure 11,000 students were routed. Due to her dedication and experience she was offered a promotion to a newly created position of routing and logistics manager oversees our dispatch team and routing team. She has gained and passed on her knowledge and is one of the ones in the department that people go to for routing issues and coverage. She has attended state conferences and will be attending her first national conference at TSD in Texas to gain more knowledge in transporting special needs students. Her attitude of providing excellence is shown and appreciated.

Andrew Neighbors
Director of Transportation
Canyon ISD, Texas
Within his first year he was able to accomplish so many goals. One of which he hired more employees than in years past. He even implemented a new fleet leasing program through Enterprise Fleet that has upgraded our fleet and others within the district. Following that he added an amazing opportunity for a $500 stipend for returning drivers for the following school year. Andrew also redesigned our parking lot to help its efficiency in traffic flow for our building. During the Holiday season he made sure to partner with as many vendors as he could to help gift drivers with shirts, hats, treats and gift cards. His leadership trait that he excels in the most is connections. He makes sure that everyone is taken care of and that no problem is going unseen. Even during conflict he can be able to turn it around for something good and productive. He brings a fun environment in which anyone who works here feels comfortable and happy working here.

Raymond Pratt
Driver/Trainer
Loudoun County Public Schools, Lovettsville, Virginia
Katrina is bubbly at sunrise! She is kind, hardworking, willing to jump in and help whenever and wherever possible. She gives her all to her trainees, the training department and her students. Traveling safely year after year providing courteous pick ups and drop offs. She has been displaying her kind and gentle ways in our county for 19 years! Working with various children with “needs”. Serving the parents and schools with safety as her number one priority. Thank you Katrina!

Tanner Presutti
Transportation Supervisor
Sheboygan Area School District, Wisconsin
Tanner may be newer to the transportation industry, but he has already made a significant and lasting impact. From the beginning, he hit the ground running, enhancing existing processes and pushing forward new initiatives that improve safety, efficiency, and student success.
One of Tanner’s standout accomplishments has been his ability to build strong, collaborative relationships with the school district’s contracted bus company and its drivers. Through open communication, mutual respect, and a hands-on leadership style, he earned their trust and buy-in for the implementation of new technology, including driver tablets. Rather than simply rolling out the tools, Tanner made it a priority to support the drivers directly—often riding the buses himself in real time to provide guidance, troubleshoot issues, and show a shared commitment to success.
He is also in the process of implementing a live video camera system, allowing the transportation department and school administration to address student-related concerns as they happen, greatly enhancing safety and accountability.
Tanner’s proactive approach, leadership through action, and unwavering focus on student well-being make him a true rising superstar in school transportation.

Madison Quatkemeyer
Routing Specialist
Fountain Fort Carson District 8, Colorado
With immense pride, I endorse Madison Quatkemeyer, a standout contender, for the Rising Transportation Superstar. When I think of someone deeply dedicated to the families of Fountain-Fort Carson and the students, faculty, and staff. Madison worked tirelessly behind the scenes, ensuring everything she did was perfect, never expecting to be praised or rewarded for her good work. Her efforts this school year embody all these qualities.
For those who may not know, a routing specialist reviews over 4,000 student registrations for fall and summer classes, as well as government forms, and uses complex formulas to assess a student’s eligibility for ridership in federally funded programs, such as McKinney-Vento and center-based programs, across the district. She must stay up-to-date with changing federal and state laws. She responds to thousands of phone calls and emails from families, administrators, and employees, while being sensitive to the heightened emotions associated with the job.
Even with a short staff, Madison took on additional driving duties at the beginning of the year to ensure students arrived at school and were transported on special field trips. She has never missed a deadline, completing them ahead of time. Emails and phone calls were returned promptly, and students’ and their families’ concerns were heard and addressed. We really appreciate the human perspective that Madison has brought to the department, and wanted to tell someone beyond her how much we value her assistance. Furthermore, Ms. Quatkemeyer also possesses a keen eye for detail and a prowess for transportation routing. She continually assists with improving routing and dispatching details by sharing her concerns about traffic patterns, parking details, and dangerous student stops. This meta-view of transportation directly translates into safer and more efficient transportation for Fountain-Fort Carson School District students. Ms. Quatkemeyer has demonstrated that she is a skilled presenter, able to communicate complex routing scenarios in a clear and understandable manner.
Finally, this year, we had a new software rollout and the subsequent delays tested Madison’s patience, making some of the most challenging months in her career. Almost daily, Madison has had to confront and adjust to new errors with the new program to ensure that the staff receive the most up-to-date training. I am not exaggerating when I say we would be lost without Madison. While much of her work takes place behind the scenes, she is one of the essential components to the functioning of the transportation department. I firmly believe that Madison Quatkemeyer would be a tremendous addition to any organization. She possesses the knowledge, leadership qualities, and interpersonal skills needed to succeed. She would be an asset to any other employer, and I’m pleased to have her as an employee of District 8 Transportation.

Angelina Rico
Transportation Supervisor
Huntington Beach City School District, California
Last year Angelina Rico was elevated from a school bus driver position to supervisor of transportation. She has undertaken a lot of training, testing and restructuring with minimal guidance from her predecessor or from the district. Angelina has been a true self-starter and risen above many complications and traversed through the disorganization and chaos of what was left to her and turned the transportation department into an organized, well oiled machine. Angelina, as a supervisor, has proven to be extremely fair, approachable and highly respected by her entire staff. She has gone above and beyond to improve the previously devastated morale of the staff in the transportation department and has returned us into a supportive “team” while also rebuilding communication and the overall relationship between the transportation department and the HBCSD district staff. Angelina has also made vast improvements in communications between the transportation staff and the parents of the children we transport. It has taken many hours and a lot of hard work for her to turn this department around. She puts 150 percent of herself into the transportation department with no complaints. Because of Angelina’s efforts as a transportation supervisor, HBCSD transportation has become a much more pleasant and efficient work environment for all.

Charli Sanders
Director, Parts & Warranty
Durham School Services – Durham / Petermann / Stock, DOmociled in MI – responsible for supporting all U.S. & Canada locations
In mid-2024, we created a new parts and warranty department to focus on driving down parts expenses, lowering inventory variance and improving warranty capture. U.S. Army veteran Charli Sanders who had previously served as a regional maintenance manager had gained parts experience in her previous career at Hertz, was promoted into the role as director of parts and warranty. Since stepping into this role, she has developed a team of parts and warranty experts whose primary mission is to support our expert team of maintenance professionals through onboarding high-value lower-cost parts suppliers, creating SOPs for the field to follow, communicating and tracking open recalls, and resolving all parts and warranty related issues.
Most recently, Charli has finalized many new and updated parts agreements and is also leading an upcoming RFP on fuel, air, exhaust and rotating electrical components, which will add to our parts expense reduction while increasing reliability.
In 2024, we migrated to a new fleet management system and Charli was and continues to be an integral part of the system rollout and training. Most recently, she worked with our solutions provider to lock down and clean-up our parts master database allowing us to drive all parts purchases through our agreed upon vendor channels while also reducing duplicate and obsolete parts by more than 75 percent. Prior to this, the parts database was replete with expired agreements and parts that we would no longer support based on our new contracts and agreements. Charli’s team now manages all request for new parts not currently listed in the database and is able to successfully manage the addition of any needed items.
Charli also recently completed our new Parts SOP, which details the inventory expectations for all Maintenance leaders to accurately count their onsite inventory and has instituted annual inventory audits by her small team of parts & warranty specialists which will validate the quarterly inventories submitted from the field. The goal of this new process is to reduce past practices that lacked the proper inventory controls leading to negative P&L impacts, lost warranty opportunities, and led to inaccurate maintenance data.
Charli has taken the lead to train the maintenance team on parts, warranty and PO processes in Maximo and voluntarily hosts a weekly call with the maintenance team to provide guidance and review open issues that are submitted to her team. She has also trained each of her employees on tracking warranty WOs and proper responses to parts add requests.
Charli also oversees our four Parts Reclamation Centers (PRCs) across the U.S., where we not only repurpose body panels, major components, and hard-to-source parts but are also where we consolidate obsolete parts for use throughout the network. Charli has recently introduced new KPIs and SOPs to increase efficiency and to track part reliability. Charli recently presented at our annual MX Leadership Summit and trained all maintenance leaders on the new SOP, POs and proper inventory processes, and held a hands-on exercise for inventory accuracy.

Katherine Songer
Director of Transportation
Oakdale Joint Unified School District, California
Katherine started driving for Oakdale at 18 years old she has set many goals for herself and the first one was to be a driver trainer, someday when given the opportunity. She met that goal in 2022, she was very excited to finally have achieved this goal it was a dream of hers after many years of driving the school bus and watching others do this job and now she was headed to the academy to finally become a state certified instructor, she took that role very seriously. She came back from there on fire to teach everything she learned there. She made it look very easy and she is a natural at it. I have watched her grow so much since she started here in Oakdale. She went from being a school bus driver at 18 (she looked like a student herself) to becoming the director of transportation. She had set that goal for herself as well. In a very short time after becoming an instructor (seven months) she achieved that goal and she goes above and beyond as our director of transportation. She spends many many hours making sure everything is going well here at our transportation yard. She has grown in many ways from the time she started here driving a school bus. When we have ran out of trip drivers she has also hopped in the bus and drove the students on her day off on the weekend for no pay to ensure the students were able to go on the field trip. I believe she is a rising star in all she has achieved in her 20 years as a driver. Certified state instructor and now the director of transportation. I believe she will meet and exceed all her goals set for herself in her career with transportation.

Amanda Spaulding
School Bus Driver
Garland Independent School District, Texas
Ms. Spaulding is starting her 7th consecutive school year with the district. She is proactive and covers for any and all vacant bus routes. Se also works in the transportation office without compensation, but works with a lot of love, pride, professionalism, hugs, and smiles to students and staff. She is loved by all and goes out of her way to help the transportation office, giving her students treats, and helping other bus drivers in need. Amanda recently received a Safe School Bus Driver award, among others.

Raymond Stanley
Executive Director, Transportation and Fleet Services
DeKalb County School District, Georgia
It is with great enthusiasm that I nominate Executive Director Raymond Stanley for recognition as a rising transportation Leader. Mr. Stanley has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership, innovation and commitment to excellence in school district transportation services. His contributions extend beyond operational oversight to include strategic planning, staff development, and community impact.
Mr. Stanley leads one of the largest school district fleets in Georgia, with more than 1,200 buses and support vehicles under his direction. He has spearheaded critical modernization initiatives, including GPS connectivity for support vehicles, preventive maintenance schedules, and enhanced data validation processes. These advancements have strengthened safety, accountability, and efficiency across the district.
He successfully navigated challenges in staffing shortages and vendor transitions, ensuring uninterrupted student transportation services. Additionally, he has directed multimillion-dollar infrastructure and vendor contracts, positioning the district for long-term operational stability. His focus on employee growth—through OSHA, Lean Six Sigma, and RTA training programs—has uplifted the workforce while recognition events like the annual Fleet Appreciation Luncheon and Employee of the Year program have enhanced morale.
Mr. Stanley exemplifies visionary leadership, consistently aligning departmental goals with the district’s mission. His accountability and integrity are evident through his implementation of internal audits, dual approval systems and transparent reporting practices. He is collaborative and supportive, engaging with staff at all levels to resolve challenges, encourage professional growth and foster teamwork. His resilience and adaptability allow him to address complex issues with a solutions-focused mindset, always keeping student safety and well-being at the forefront. Mr. Stanley’s efforts have been acknowledged by district leadership and peers alike for driving positive transformation within fleet services. His innovative practices have positioned him as a strong candidate for broader regional and state-level transportation recognition, underscoring his ability to deliver both operational excellence and visionary leadership.
In summary, Executive Director Raymond Stanley is a proven leader who has made significant contributions to school transportation. His dedication to innovation, employee development, and student-centered service makes him highly deserving of recognition as a Rising Transportation Leader.

Peggy Stone
Director of Transportation
Lincoln County Schools, West Virginia
Peggy took over a county transportation department that had been taken over by the state department. She has turned the county transportation department around and no longer under state control. She has implemented better driver training, parts inventory and management systems, reduced the number of buses breaking down and being towed, worked with the county emergency services to do a mock bus accident, and has changed the moral of the transportation staff. Her positive leadership has brought a tremendous change to the transportation department an made a positive impact on the staff. Peggy also is the current treasure of the West Virginia Association for Pupil Transporation and works hard at helping to plan the annual state transportation conference each year.

Christopher Storer
Director of Transportation
Yarmouth Schools, Maine
Christophers knowledge and enthusiasm for school transportation is not only refreshing but much needed as a generation of older directors are leaving and a new generation is taking over. His helpfulness in answering questions or finding out the answers is refreshing in a field that has been tired for a long time. He is not afraid of the hard work that goes into making changes.

Allison Swauger
Director of Transportation/Asst. Business Manager
Deer Lakes, Pennsylvania
Allison is a rising star in the transportation field, demonstrating exceptional potential and a unique blend of skills that position her as an up-and-comer in the industry. Her ability to learn quickly, manage relationships effectively, and consistently seek innovative solutions makes her a standout professional.
Allison’s rapid learning ability is one of her most impressive qualities. She absorbs new information, processes and technologies with remarkable speed, allowing her to adapt to the dynamic demands of the transportation sector. Whether mastering new systems, understanding regulatory changes, or tackling operational challenges, Allison’s intellectual agility ensures she stays ahead of the curve.
Equally notable is her exceptional interpersonal skills. Allison handles interactions with parents and staff with professionalism, empathy, and clarity, fostering trust and collaboration. Her ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders—whether addressing parental concerns or coordinating with team members—creates a positive and productive environment, which is critical in transportation management where clear communication can make or break operational success.
What truly sets Allison apart is her proactive approach to efficiency. She consistently seeks out opportunities to streamline processes, reduce costs, and enhance service quality. Her forward-thinking mindset drives her to identify bottlenecks, propose creative solutions, and implement improvements that benefit both the organization and its clients. This dedication to operational excellence not only improves day-to-day operations but also positions her as a visionary who can shape the future of transportation.
In summary, Allison’s quick learning, strong interpersonal skills and relentless pursuit of efficiency make her an invaluable asset and a true up-and-comer in the transportation industry. I wholeheartedly recommend her for the award.

Quavion Swazer
Director of Transportation
Puyallup School District, Washington
I am pleased to nominate Quavion Swazer, affectionately known as “Q” by his colleagues, for the School Transportation News Rising Superstar spotlight. As a transportation professional with over three decades of experience in this industry, I have had the privilege of witnessing many talented individuals, but Q’s trajectory in just six short years has been nothing short of remarkable.
Q’s dedication to student transportation began six years ago as a school bus driver in a neighboring district, where he spent two years mastering the fundamentals of safe student transport. His commitment to excellence and natural leadership abilities quickly became evident, leading to his recruitment by Puyallup School District—one of Washington State’s largest transportation operations.
Since joining Puyallup, Q has demonstrated exceptional leadership capabilities that have earned him the respect and admiration of his entire staff. His team genuinely appreciates his approachable management style and forward-thinking vision for the department.
What truly sets Q apart is his commitment to sustainable transportation solutions. This year, he is spearheading the introduction of 15 propane-powered buses to the Puyallup fleet, demonstrating his dedication to environmental stewardship while maintaining operational efficiency. This initiative showcases his ability to balance innovation with practical implementation—a skill that typically takes years to develop.
Q’s influence extends beyond his district boundaries. This summer, he accepted a position on the Washington Association for Pupil Transportation (WAPT) board, where he will serve for the next three years. His appointment to this prestigious role speaks volumes about the respect he has earned from his peers across the state.
At such an early stage in his career, Q has already: Risen from bus driver to transportation director in a major district, implemented innovative alternative fuel programs, earned the trust and respect of his staff, gained recognition for his leadership at the state level and Demonstrated exceptional potential for future industry impact
Quavion Swazer represents the future of student transportation leadership.His combination of operational expertise, innovative thinking, and natural leadership abilities positions him as a rising star who will undoubtedly make significant contributions to our industry for years to come. I enthusiastically recommend Q for the School Transportation News Rising Superstar spotlight and look forward to witnessing the continued positive impact he will have on student transportation in Washington State and beyond.
The transportation industry needs more leaders like Quavion Swazer—individuals who bring fresh perspectives while respecting the foundational principles that keep our students safe every day.

Krystal Tenace
General Manager
Durham School Services, New York
Kyrstal is a 15 year employee with the company. She started as a driver and has worked her way up to general manager, holding positions of driver, dispatcher, monitor, Safety Manager, and site supervisor. She has 19A certified trainer credentials and has been overseeing a location that in less than a year, the customer went from possible cancellation of service to now being the customer preferred vendor of services has increased driver head count by 40 percent over past three months through intense recruiting and changing the morale to be an employer of choice in the area. Expect great things for her in the future!

Jennifer Wallace
TIMS Coordinator/Bus Driver
Caswell County Schools, North Carolina
Jennifer has been driving a bus for about three years now. She has always made herself available to drive doubles and cares about the students that she transports. She was hired on as a custodian at the elementary school and continued driving the bus patiently and rarely misses a shift. Last year I hired her as the TIMS Coordinator, picked up the ball and has learned this job. All the while she continues to drive the bus, now for the middle and high school. Jennifer is always ready to help out and one several occasions she has driven a double and still manages to get all the routing completed for our district.

Diane Wilson
School Bus Safety Specialist
Region 6 Education Service Center, Texas
Diane Wilson has demonstrated outstanding leadership, initiative and commitment to advancing school transportation safety across Texas and beyond. Since joining Region 6 ESC as a specialist in 2024, she has built Operation STEER—a nationally recognized safety education program—from the ground up. This program, developed in collaboration with local businesses, fire departments, and vendors, has earned national attention and led to her being invited to present at the STN Conference.
In addition to developing Operation STEER, Diane leads a monthly statewide Zoom safety training that has grown from 20 participants to over 400, becoming a key resource for school districts’ regular safety meetings. Her reach and impact are undeniable.
Diane also serves as a mentor to numerous transportation directors and staff across Texas, advising on laws, policies, best practices, and training implementation. She is a certified ELDT trainer, a Texas DPS School Bus Certification Instructor, and travels extensively with Region 6’s 40-foot school bus simulator to provide hands-on training throughout the state.
Her professionalism, dedication and approachable demeanor earned her the “STAR of the Month” recognition at Region 6 ESC. She is regularly invited to speak at regional Association of Pupil Transportation meetings and takes the lead in planning the annual Region 6 ESC School Bus Safety Conference, which draws nearly 300 attendees, as well as the annual Directors Conference. Diane’s commitment to safety, innovation, and service make her exceptionally deserving of this recognition.

Edith Yambo
VP of Operations
New York City/Leesel Transportation & Beacon Mobility, New York
Edith Yambo, vice president of operations at Beacon Mobility, is a dynamic leader whose visionary approach and proven results set her apart in student transportation. Since joining Beacon in 2021, Edith quickly established herself first in HR, playing a vital role in building Beacon’s values-first culture and leading our talent team to new heights. Her ability to foster inclusivity, strengthen employee engagement, and empower her teams laid the foundation for Beacon’s reputation as a supportive workplace.
In 2023, Edith transitioned to operations, taking charge of our largest contract, New York City. She immediately elevated operational performance—on-time service and safety metrics reached new highs under her employee first, data-driven leadership. Her focus on employee development led to higher retention and morale, while her rollout of innovative training and safety procedures became benchmarks for our entire organization. Throughout, Edith remained true to Beacon’s purpose and core values, leading with integrity, transparency, and collaboration. She truly believes that Every ride matters.
Key Accomplishments include: Delivered significant improvements to NYC contract performance through efficient process redesign, Championed Beacon’s values-first culture, directly impacting employee satisfaction and customer service, Developed and mentored future leaders, cultivating a strong talent pipeline, and Implemented award-winning safety and training initiatives recognized internally for excellence.
Edith is not only a strategic thinker but also a true people champion, inspiring teams to excel and driving positive change across Beacon Mobility.

The post STN Announces 10th Year of Rising Superstar Profiles appeared first on School Transportation News.

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.

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Related: Innovation Awards Returns to STN EXPO, Vote on Site
Related: Legislation Reauthorizing DERA Program Passes Senate, Held in House
Related: Giving Birth to Proper Leadership
Related:Federal Legislation Reintroduced to Permanently Extend ‘Under-the-Hood’ Exemption

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

The student transportation industry mourns the passing of Blake A. Krapf, chairman of the Krapf Group. He was 55 years old.

Krapf, died Oct. 18 at home in Downingtown, Pennsylvania. While no cause of death was provided, the National School Transportation Association informed members Tuesday Krapf fought a two-year battle with a “rare and debilitating condition.” His obituary confirmed he had Multiple System Atrophy, a neurodegenerative disorder.

Krapf started working in his family’s bus business as his grandfather’s apprentice at age 12. He helped around the garage and scrubbed buses. From there, he became a lifelong advocate and leader within the school transportation industry.

He graduated from Downingtown High School in 1988 and from Skidmore College in 1992 with a bachelor’s degree in business. After searching for new experiences after college, including work as a white-water rafting guide and a ski instructor for younger students, he returned to the family business in 1995.

He eventually became the CEO, a role he held for 25 years.

“Blake’s steady leadership guided the organization through a period of remarkable success. He expanded the company’s school bus services nationally, making it the largest family-owned bus business in the U.S.,” his obituary states.

He was an active member of both the Pennsylvania School Bus Association, for which he served as president from 2014-2016. He also served as NSTA president from 2017–2019 and continued to serve on the boards of both organizations until his death. In 2021, Blake was inducted into the NSTA Hall of Fame for his significant contributions to student transportation. He also received the NSTA Go Yellow Award, Go Green Award, and the NSTA Contractor of the Year award.

NSTA said Krapf, who attended the association’s Annual Meeting and Convention in July in Boston, Massachusetts, was deeply passionate about the industry. NSTA said he “was a tireless advocate in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and Washington, D.C., often testifying on behalf of contractors and writing to legislators in support of policies that strengthened the school bus community.

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Related: Executive Leadership Changes Announced for the Krapf Group
Related: Krapf COO Jim Folkes Announces Retirement
Related: ‘The Bus Stops Here’ for Krapf with Pennsylvania Association Award

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“His leadership, integrity and willingness to mentor others earned him the respect of colleagues nationwide. Many contractors turned to Blake for his insight, guidance and friendship. He especially enjoyed attending meetings and conventions—not only to support the industry he loved, but to share in the camaraderie that defined it,” NSTA continued.

Krapf is survived by wife Stephanie Morris, parents, Dale N. Krapf (Betsy) and Patricia (Bartone) Lyman (David), children Flynn Krapf, Logan Krapf, Sage Krapf, Ella Krapf and Sadi Morris, and brothers Gary Krapf (Samantha Stark) and Brad Krapf (Dina Avvakumova).

Services are scheduled for Friday, Oct. 24, at Hopewell United Methodist Church in Downingtown, Pennsylvania. Visitation will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. ET, followed by a service. A private celebration of life will be held for close family and friends.

The post NSTA Past-President Blake Krapf Dies, Leaves Lasting Legacy appeared first on School Transportation News.

DENVER — EverDriven, the leader in alternative student transportation, today announced the finalists for its inaugural Modern Student Transportation Awards, a first-of-its-kind recognition program spotlighting school district leaders who are embracing modern tools, inclusive practices and a commitment to safety and accessibility in student transportation.

The awards recognize district leaders who are improving student transportation for diverse populations, including those experiencing housing instability and requiring specialized services, through thoughtful innovation and care. Finalists stood out for their efforts to make transportation more inclusive, reliable, and safe, whether by utilizing new technologies, designing flexible systems to meet diverse student needs, or demonstrating exceptional compassion in how services are delivered.

“We’re at an exciting moment in student transportation, where school districts across the country are extending the boundaries of what’s possible through modern, student-centered solutions,” said Mitch Bowling, CEO of EverDriven. “The Modern Student Transportation Awards celebrate that spirit of innovation and collaboration, and it’s an honor to recognize all of the nominees who are shaping the future of how students get to school safely and efficiently.”

Award Categories

Finalists were nominated across four categories, each representing a core pillar of modern student transportation.

Equity in Education Accessibility Award
Honors district leaders who deliver scalable and inclusive transportation solutions for underserved student populations.

Humanitarian Award
Highlights extraordinary care and compassion in ensuring every student gets to school safely and consistently.

Safety & Reliability Award
Recognizes standout practices that enhance the safety and consistency of student transportation.

Top Innovator Award
Celebrates the most impactful use of modern, AI-enabled technology in school transportation.

Meet the Finalists

The district leaders below were selected for their outstanding contributions to student transportation related to the categories above.

• Jameelah Davis, Program Coordinator – Orange County Public Schools, Orlando, FL
• Kayla Denaco, Assistant Director of Transportation – Lewiston Public Schools, Lewiston, ME
• Laura Hill, General Manager, Transportation Services — Hillsborough County Transportation School Department – Hillsborough School District, Tampa, FL
• Earl Kent III, Route Planning Manager – Denver Public Schools, Denver, CO
• Lori Knochelmann, McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Coordinator – Covington Independent Public Schools, Covington, KY
• Marla Lynn, Director of Transportation – Grandview School District, Grandview, MO
  Sarah Nanny, Transportation Department Secretary – Escambia County School District, Pensacola, FL
• Quanika Dukes-Spruill, Executive Director – Newark Public Schools, Newark, NJ
• Jeremy Stowe, Director of Transportation – Buncombe County Schools, Asheville, NC
• Pat Ward, Former Director of Maintenance and Transportation – Allen Park Public Schools, Allen Park, MI

Winners To Be Announced

Winners will be announced on November 6, 2025. The winners are selected by a panel of judges that scored nominations across four dimensions:

Tangible student impact: Presenting clear evidence of real, measurable benefits for students (attendance, safety, accessibility, well-being, etc.).

Comprehensiveness: How fully the initiative addresses the challenge — depth of planning, execution, and stakeholder involvement.

Scalability and sustainability: Potential for the initiative to be expanded within the district, adopted by others elsewhere, and that it will endure over time.

Creativity: Delivers a fresh, forward-thinking approach; challenging the traditional model with inventive solutions, bold ideas, or unconventional strategies that break from “the way it’s always been done” to achieve better student outcomes.

The judging panel includes Mitch Bowling, CEO of EverDriven; Barbara Duffield, executive director of SchoolHouse Connection; Kevin Gordon, president at Capital Advisors; and Glenna Wright-Gallo, vice president of policy at Everway.

Each winner will receive:

A $2,500 college scholarship to be awarded to a student in their district who qualifies under the McKinney-Vento Act or receives special education services:

• A full conference pass and paid travel to the 2025 TSD Conference, November 6 to 11;
• A customized plaque;
• A digital winner’s seal for use across marketing materials and social media.

About EverDriven

EverDriven delivers modern student-centered transportation that’s safe, consistent, and built for those who need it most. EverDriven specializes in transporting students across a wide range of needs — from everyday support to the most complex circumstances — including students with disabilities, students experiencing housing instability, and other high-need populations. Serving more than 800 districts across 36 states, the company completed over 2 million trips last year, 99.99% of them accident-free with 100% safety compliance. EverDriven’s deeply human, fully compliant, and AI-powered approach helps districts get students on the road in hours, not days, while maintaining consistent, high-trust rides that complement traditional yellow bus fleets. For more information, visit everdriven.com.

The post EverDriven Announces Finalists for Inaugural Modern Student Transportation Awards appeared first on School Transportation News.

Attendees of the National Association for Pupil Transportation Annual Conference and Trade Show later this month in Grand Rapids, Michigan, will meet several new officers who won or held onto their seats following this week’s election.

In an email to members on Thursday, NAPT said the newly elected and reelected officers will be sworn in and begin their terms on Nov. 1 during NAPT ACTS. Elections ran from Sept. 30 through Oct. 1, and voters were able to cast their votes online.

Melody Coniglio, director of transportation at West Geauga Local Schools in Ohio, was elected NAPT president-elect. She currently serves as Region 3 director and will transition to her new role for two years before serving as president.

Coniglio ran against Karim Johnson, director of student transportation at Dorchester County School District Four in South Carolina, and Todd Silverthorn, supervisor of transportation services at Kettering City School District in Ohio. A special election will be held to fill the Region 3 Director seat, NAPT noted, which becomes vacant once the new board is sworn in at NAPT ACTS.

Keith Kaup, director of transportation at Pearland Independent School District in Texas, is the current president-elect and assumes the president role, succeeding Teena Mitchell of South Carolina.

Region 1 Director Marc Medina, supervisor of transportation at Farmingdale School District in New York, ran unopposed and succeeds Peter Lawrence, who completed three terms. According to NAPT bylaws, Lawrence had reached his term limit.

“Lawrence’s leadership helped establish a strong foundation for the region and positioned it for continued success,” NAPT said in a statement.

The new Region 5 director will be Dawnett Wright, director of transportation at Peninsula School District in Washington. She succeeds Athena Bartz of Wyoming, who completed one term and chose not to seek reelection.

Meanwhile, affiliate member director Maritza Valentin, the national sales manager for AMF-Bruns of America, was re-elected for a second term. She also ran unopposed. NAPT said Valentin “will continue her work to strengthen connections between industry business partners and members.”

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Related: NAPT Shares Candidate Information Ahead of Next Week’s Elections
Related: NAPT Announces More Annual Award Winners for 2025
Related: Robinson Named Sole 2025 Inductee into NAPT Hall of Fame

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“Elections serve as the heartbeat of our association, reminding us that each member has both a voice and a part in shaping our shared future,” stated Molly McGee Hewitt, NAPT CEO and executive director. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated, whether as candidates or voters. Your involvement fuels our progress and sparks innovation. Looking ahead, we are excited to unite our newly elected leaders with those currently serving, forming a strong coalition of leaders dedicated to embracing the NAPT vision of a world where every student has access to safe and efficient transportation.”

Members will vote Oct. 6–10 on proposed bylaw amendments, including changes to the regional structure that will directly impact director representation.

“I commend everyone who ran in this election—you are the foundation of our strength. I look forward to working with the full Board of Directors to keep NAPT moving forward,” added Kaup and the 2025 NAPT nominations chair.

NAPT ACTS will be held Oct. 31 – Nov. 4 in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

The post NAPT Announces Election Winners Ahead of Annual Conference appeared first on School Transportation News.

In the October issue of School Transportation News, STN examined what keeps directors in a certain role and district versus the factors that drive them to switch. To no surprise, it’s culture, administrative support and professional growth that lead the way.

Igor Petrivoc, a 2022 STN Rising Superstar, has been working in transportation for the past 16 years. Prior joining a school district, he started in transportation-related roles working for transit companies, then MV Transportation, where he has worked on a school bus contract since 2009. In 2018, he had the opportunity to join Adams 12 Five Star Schools near Denver, Colorado as the operations manager. However, he only served in that role for a few months before becoming the transportation director.

“Personally, it was a little bit challenging in the beginning just because I was mainly focused on the operations, and I knew that side really well. I had to back off and allow the new operations manager to step into their role so that I could oversee kind of the bigger picture on the district side of things,” he said of becoming the director, adding that the administration made the transition “easy.”

“Because they’re full of support and ensuring that you don’t fail, that you have people there that can help you with the budget, people there that can help you with the bigger projects,” he continued. “They invested a lot in me, and that’s why I’ve stayed with Adams 12 …They ensured that I was successful, both in the role and within the district.”

He explained that his COO at the time would meet with him regularly to provide guidance and support, serving as a mentor for Petrivoc. “He was big on providing leadership books, leadership trainings and courses,” he said, adding that the district also offered training from outside consultants to help with leadership.

One training that stuck with him covered finding one’s voice.

“There are these different voices as a leader that you exhibit, whether you’re a creative, a pioneer, a guardian, and just how to channel those voices into your own leadership style,” he said. “A lot of that was at play in in the early years and still is to this day. Just ensuring that you are continually growing and have resources available to you so that you can expand on your leadership style and your leadership abilities.”

In terms of what he looks for from his administration, he echoed the others in terms of support. He said he want his board to trust his input and value his experience. “They’ve never questioned anything,” he said. “They will certainly have questions, but they are fully supportive of the decisions, the direction that you want to take things in.”

He noted that it’s the support and relationships that keep him at Adams 12. He explained that there have been opportunities within the school district to move up, but he was expanding his family and personally, he said. It wasn’t the right time.

“My hope is to not leave Adams 12. On a personal side, I think everybody makes a decision of where they want to work based on a number of factors. One of those is absolutely the leadership and the support that you get,” he said. “It could not be any better at Adams 12. The other is the family dynamic.”

He said that when becoming a director at the age of 31, pay was at the top of the list in terms of benefits. But now, after having kids and realizing the importance of family, he values the home-work balance.

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Related: STN Launches Peer-to-Peer Mentorship Program at 2026 Conferences
Related: Beacon Mobility Driver of Year Shares Passion for Student Service, Connection
Related: Robinson Named Sole 2025 Inductee into NAPT Hall of Fame

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On the flip side, Danny Williams started as a school bus driver in 2005 while he was a senior in high school at Johnston County Schools in North Carolina. His mother, grandmother, uncles and aunts were all school bus drivers. Growing up he knew he would forge a similar path.

After graduation, he worked as a driver for the Public Schools of Robeson County before becoming a site coordinator. He returned to Johnston County as an area supervisor in 2016 before switching districts to Wilson County Schools in 2021 as the assistant director. In August 2022 he was promoted to executive director.

“I kind of knew that if I stayed at Johnston, I was going to be in that assistant director position for quite some time,” he said, noting that his aspirations were to serve as a director. “So, I knew that in order to go up, I had to leave Johnston County.”
That’s how he ended up at Wilson.

“I knew that [a transportation director] would be what I would land,” he said. “Did I think that I would advance as quick as I did, as young as I did? No. but it happened, and I’m grateful for those opportunities that I was granted along the way, and the support and the leadership that I had that molded and groomed me.”

The post Leadership Starts From the Top Down appeared first on School Transportation News.

The National Association for Pupil Transportation (NAPT) election is fast approaching. The candidates come from various backgrounds in student transportation and have been nominated based on their dedicated contributions to the industry.

The president-elect candidates are: Melody Coniglio, director of transportation for West Geauga Local Schools in Ohio and current NAPT Region 3 director; Karim Johnson, director of student transportation at Dorchester County School District Four in South Carolina; and Todd Silverthorn, supervisor of transportation services at Kettering City School District in Ohio.

Keith Kaup, director of transportation at Pearland Independent School District in Texas, is the current president elect and assumes the president role this fall, succeeding Teena Mitchell of South Carolina.

Coniglio started her career as a school bus driver in 1994 and since has served in various transportation leadership positions in Ohio districts. Johnson was named a STN Rising Superstar in 2020 and holds multiple state and NAPT certifications. Silverthorn is the current vice president and a recent past-president of the Ohio Association for Pupil Transportation. He has worked in student transportation for over 20 years.

Running unopposed for Region 1 director is Marc Medina, supervisor of transportation at Farmingdale School District in New York. Medina is the president of the New York Association for Pupil Transportation and has been in the industry for 15 years.

Dawnett Wright, director of transportation at Peninsula School District in Washington, is the sole candidate for Region 5 director. Also serving as the president of the Washington Association of Pupil Transportation, Wright has spent over three decades in the Pacific Northwest region, first as a school bus driver, then trainer and now director.

Maritza Valentin, national account manager at wheelchair securement provider AMF-Bruns of America, is running for re-election as affiliate member director. Valentin trains professionals to properly secure students with disabilities who ride in wheelchairs and advocates for American Disabilities Act compliance.

For the positions where only one candidate was nominated, NAPT stated that write-in candidates will be accepted during the voting period.

The NAPT election will run from 8 a.m. EST Tuesday, Sept. 30, through 5 p.m. EST Wednesday, Oct. 1. The elected members will be sworn in at NAPT ACTS Saturday, Nov. 1, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. For more information on the candidates and their positions, go to www.napt.org/napt-candidates. Voter eligibility and voting details can be found at www.napt.org/napt-election-faq.

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Related: NAPT Announces More Annual Award Winners for 2025
Related: Alex Robinson, Mentor for Student Transportation Professionals
Related: (STN Podcast E231) Come Together: Florida Hurricane Fallout, NAPT Conference Recap

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To foster increased community among conference attendees, one of the pillars of STN EXPO, the School Transportation News team is launching a new initiative focused on peer-to-peer mentoring.

For the 2026 conferences, registered attendees have the option to connect with other student transportation professionals through a networking program hosted by STN. The program is intended to give participants exclusive opportunities to learn from each other, share insights and build lasting relationships.

When registering for STN EXPO East, STN EXPO West and the TSD Conference, attendees can select areas of interest such as fleet management, leadership/professional growth, operations and safety, specialty areas, and technology and innovation. STN will group participants based on years of experience in the industry, school district size, fleet makeup, and areas of interest selected.

As part of the Peer-to-Peer Mentorship Program, participants are expected to participate in three touch-point events: The welcome reception and peer-to-peer meet up, a mentorship roundtable during the week of the conference, and a debriefing session held either at the conference conclusion or virtually.

Space in the program is limited, and participation is not guaranteed. To learn more about the program, contact Kristine Hannon. Registration for STN EXPO East is currently open, and the conference is held March 26-31 in Charlotte-Concord, North Carolina.

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Related: Beacon Mobility Driver of Year Shares Passion for Student Service, Connection
Related: Robinson Named Sole 2025 Inductee into NAPT Hall of Fame
Related: Suffolk Transportation, Past-President Noble Among NSTA Honorees at Recent Convention

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With 2.2 million Canadian students back in school via the yellow school bus, a new report by the Canadian Electric School Bus Alliance (CESBA) highlights the need for equity of access and funding to make the transition to electric school buses a successful one. ​

Fewer than 4 percent of Canada’s 51,000 school buses, about 2,000 vehicles, are currently electric. But 70 percent of school buses on the road are set to be replaced in the next two to seven years, the report emphasizes.

Embedding Equity in Canada’s Transition to Electric School Buses calls on federal and provincial policymakers to ensure no one is left behind during the country’s move toward zero-emissions school buses. It identifies challenges faced by indigenous communities, students with disabilities and under-resourced areas in accessing ESBs. Adoption remains “significantly lower” in indigenous and remote communities nationwide, due primarily to cost barriers. ​

“We want to make sure that provinces roll out some financial incentive for electric school buses because right now just for the deployment there are absolutely no guidelines that force school bus operators or school districts to prioritize electric school buses in communities where there is more pollution and where they’re actually underserved,” lead author Valerie Tremblay of Green Communities Canada, a co-coordinator of CESBA, told School Transportation News.

The paper notes most ESBs range from $400,000 to $600,000 per bus compared to $125,000 for a diesel model — and related infrastructure, which proves especially challenging for indigenous and remote communities that already have higher transportation costs and barriers to funding. For example, transporting a student in northern Alberta costs $1,279 compared to $363 in urban areas, according to a report on education transportation needs prepared for the Assembly of First Nations, an advocacy group for indigenous people across Canada. ​

School bus contractor Switzer-Carty is a CESBA member company and currently operates two, 2018 model-year, Type C ESBs from the former Lion Electric. Those buses transport general education students, said Rich Bagdonas, vice president of business development for Switzer-Carty. But funding is also at issue.

The federal government targets 35 percent of medium- and heavy-duty vehicles sales to be zero emissions by 2030 and 100 percent by 2040. The Zero Emissions Transit Fund (ZETF) covers capital and planning costs, while the Zero Emissions Vehicle Infrastructure Program funds chargers.

But Bagdonas pointed out that Ontario, where Switzer-Carty mainly operates, does not currently offer provincial funding programs or incentives though the company is exploring other local options.

Tremblay added ESB funding and deployment has so far focused on Montreal and Quebec, where 80 percent or about 1,600 ESBs operate, and other urban cities. Quebec also mandates nearly two-thirds of school bus fleets be electrified by 2030. British Columbia operates about 150 ESBs and also offers incentives, noted Bagdonas, as the province also aligns with California’s mandate that all trucks and buses be electrified by 2036.

Further illustrating the challenge, the report shares that Prince Edward’s Island also has no funding program currently in place despite targeting 100 percent ESBs province-wide by 2030. It had been relying on funding from the Canada Infrastructure Bank Zero-Emissions Bus Initiative, but those funds are now exhausted.

The report recommends revising provincial and federal budgets to cover higher upfront ESB costs and better support small fleet operators.

Tremblay and associate Nicole Roach note that procurement guidelines and safety standards also need updating to ensure universal bus design and a wider range of school bus models that provide accessibility and inclusivity for all. For example, they call for standard wheelchair lifts for students with disabilities.

Tremblay and Roach write that Type A school buses now offer increased range, the prior lack of which had posed “significant challenges,” but supply remains constrained with only a few models available in Canada. The availability of Type C school buses equipped with wheelchair lifts “has the potential to ease some of the equity concerns tied to ESB adoption, especially for smaller operators or school districts,” they write.

Then, there is the obvious reduction in exposure to diesel emissions, which not only improves health but also provides better academic outcomes and school attendance. The report cites findings from the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine and the National Bureau of Economic Research in Massachusetts.

The report also considers the entire lifecycle of electric school buses, from resource extraction to manufacturing, adoption and use to disposal, and calls for intentional planning to ensure the transition benefits all communities, especially those on indigenous lands. Canada is a leading global producer of many critical minerals essential for ESB production, with mining predominantly located in Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia and Alberta.

Meanwhile, the report also notes the need for improved working conditions by increasing wages and operational funding for school transportation staff, “as electric buses provide cleaner and quieter environments but may limit extra income opportunities due to range constraints.” This includes workforce development to expand ESB maintenance training programs that address skill gaps and job losses in the transition. ​

In addition to newly manufactured ESBs, the report recommends funding pilot projects to convert diesel buses to electric, preventing the export of decommissioned buses to countries with weaker safety standards, policies for adopting safe recycling of electric vehicle batteries and strengthening protections in mining practices to respect the rights of indigenous people and address human rights abuses linked to Canadian mining companies. ​

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Related: WRI Research Highlights Monetary Health Benefits of Electric School Buses
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Related: Report Finds Challenges to California Vehicle Electrification Plans

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