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New Jersey School Bus Hits, Kills 7-Year-Old Pedestrian

A 7-year-old boy died after being struck by a school bus moments after exiting his vehicle in Gloucester County, New Jersey.

According to a  news release from the Greenwich Township Police Department, officers responded around 3:40 p.m. May 8 to reports of a “pedestrian motor vehicle crash involving a juvenile and a school bus.”

When officers arrived at the scene, they joined nearby residents in administering emergency medical aid to the child before Gloucester County Emergency Medical Services took over treatment efforts. The boy was transported to Cooper University Hospital, where he later died from his injuries, police said.

Authorities later identified the child as Hunter Smith of Gibbstown. Investigators said they believe the crash happened shortly after the boy exited the school bus. The incident stunned residents in the neighborhood, as emergency lights filled the streets while first responders worked to save the child.

“I heard the police and ambulance and all that stuff,” one neighbor told local news reporters. “I thought it was down the street. Then I come and look out here and, next thing you know, the whole neighborhood’s crawling with red lights and blue lights.”

The neighbor said he frequently saw the boy walking to and from the bus stop. “I see the kid walking up, down the street every day, either going to school or coming from school or to the bus stop,” he said. “It’s tragic, it’s devastating for the family. May God rest his soul.”

Investigation Underway As Video Shows Horrific Aftermath of Incident

Video captured by a Ring doorbell camera and obtained by a local news outlet showed a frantic aftermath moments after the collision. In the footage, a woman can be seen rushing to a nearby home and pleading for help while the school bus remained stopped in the roadway. Several residents gathered around the Smith in an attempt to assist before emergency crews arrived.

The bus involved in the incident was operated by Holcomb Transportation. A spokesperson for the company confirmed to local reporters that the bus driver is a 48-year-old woman who has worked for Holcomb Transportation since 2024 and had no prior issues.

In a statement via local news, Holcomb Transportation said it is “heartbroken” and “deeply concerned” over the tragedy.

“We are fully cooperating with all relevant authorities as they work to determine the circumstances surrounding this incident,” Frank Patrinicola, the company’s director of safety and risk, said in part. “In addition to the official investigation, we have launched our own internal review to understand exactly what happened and to ensure that every appropriate measure is taken moving forward.”

Officials have not released additional details about how the crash occurred or whether any charges are being considered. The incident remains under investigation. In the wake of the tragedy, community organizations and local officials began offering support to grieving residents and students.

A representative from Clonmell United Methodist Church announced it would open Saturday for residents impacted by the incident, according to the police department’s release. The Greenwich Township School District in New Jersey also said counseling services would be available for students.

According to data compiled by School Transportation News, at least eight student fatalities tied to school transportation incidents during the current 2025–2026 school year, including six pedestrian deaths in which students were struck by school buses. At least 18 students died in school transportation-related incidents during the 2024–2025 school year. Of those cases, at least eight involved students who were struck and killed by a school bus. STN research also identified


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Related: Louisiana Student Struck and Killed by School Bus

The post New Jersey School Bus Hits, Kills 7-Year-Old Pedestrian appeared first on School Transportation News.

Terrifying Moments for Father, Son When Pickup Crashes into NY School Bus

A Madison County father and son are recounting the frightening moments after a pickup truck slammed into a stopped school bus, sending debris flying and leaving multiple people injured, reported WKTV News.

According to the news report, the crash happened May 7 at around 7:15 a.m. on Route 20 in front of the Rutkowski family home in Bouckville. Jeremiah Rutkowski, a high school junior, had just walked outside to board the Madison Central School District bus, when he saw the truck approaching.

“I just figured like if that thing’s not going to stop, it’s either going to hit the bus and something’s coming flying at me or the entire truck is coming flying at me,” Jeremiah told local news reporters.

Security video from the home and shared across social media showed the school bus stopped on the roadside as Jeremiah walked toward it, moments before the collision. He quickly jumped back to avoid debris as the truck crashed into the rear of the bus, pushing it farther down the road.

Jeremiah ran back onto the porch while his father, Matt Rutkowski, rushed outside after hearing what he described as the sound of “crunching metal.”

“[My] first priority was to make sure my son was safe and good,” Matt Rutkowski said. “Opening that door, wasn’t sure what would happen, so big sigh of relief. That’s why I instantly gave him a hug.”

Minor Injuries Reported

State Police said 23 students and the bus driver were aboard the bus. The 29-year-old bus driver and two students were transported to a hospital with minor injuries. An adult and two children were inside the pickup truck. The adult was taken to a hospital with minor injuries and later issued numerous tickets for distraction and following too closely.

Matt Rutkowski said he was relieved to find the bus driver alert and students safely exiting the vehicle. He called 911 and, along with passing motorists, helped manage the scene until emergency crews arrived.

Jeremiah said he initially froze in shock before focusing on comforting one of the children from the truck. “Once one of the kids was out of the truck and needed comforting and was sent to the porch, my brain just sort of kicked into that child caring mode,” he said via the report.

Jeremiah, who works as a camp counselor, said his experience helping children took over during the chaotic aftermath. Both father and son said they were grateful no one suffered serious injuries.

“My first thought was for him, then just went through everyone else,” Matt said. “It really makes you appreciate the moment.”


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Related: Louisiana Child Hit by Truck, 19-Year-Old Driver Arrested

The post Terrifying Moments for Father, Son When Pickup Crashes into NY School Bus appeared first on School Transportation News.

School Bus Hits, Kills 9-Year-Old Boy in New York City

A school bus hit and killed a 9-year-old boy in Brooklyn’s Williamsburg neighborhood, prompting renewed calls from residents and city leaders for safety improvements at a busy intersection, reported ABC News 7.

According to the news report, police identified the child as Yoel Jacobowitz. He was crossing the street May 1 on his way to school, when the school bus hit him around 8:15 a.m. in South Williamsburg.

Investigators said a private Yeshiva school bus was turning onto Lorimer Street at the time. The 49-year-old driver, who was not identified at this reportg, initially continued driving after hitting the child. The driver then returned to the scene once alerted of the school bus hit the boy. Jacobowitz was pronounced dead at the scene. No charges had been filed, and the investigation remains ongoing.

The crash stunned members of the neighborhood’s Orthodox Jewish community, many of whom gathered nearby in prayer and mourning while expressing frustration over traffic conditions and street safety.

Traffic Patterns, Congestion Blamed

“The traffic here is crazy. There needs to be some guidance and some rules,” one resident told local news reporters.

Residents said the intersection has become increasingly hazardous, especially because of ongoing construction work that has left the area without clearly marked crosswalks and street markings.

“It’s a very, very busy intersection,” another community member said. “We have a lot going on, a lot of stores and a lot of people crossing over. We need something to be done so this doesn’t keep happening.”

Witnesses and neighbors described the area as especially crowded May 1 as families prepared for Shabbat.

City leaders urged the New York City Department of Transportation to examine signal timing and consider immediate changes to improve conditions for pedestrians. Mayor Zohran Mamdani reportedly said that he was “devastated” by the child’s death and called the crash “a painful reminder” of the need to make city streets safer for pedestrians.


Related: N.Y. Child Struck, Killed by School Bus
Related: 14-Year-Old Struck by School Bus in New Jersey
Related: Massachusetts Student Struck, Killed by School Bus
Related: Louisiana Student Struck and Killed by School Bus

The post School Bus Hits, Kills 9-Year-Old Boy in New York City appeared first on School Transportation News.

‘Crackling’ House Fire Alerts Teen While Waiting for School Bus

A Long Island teenager and his mother are being praised after helping rescue a neighbor from a house fire while the boy waited for his school bus, reported People News.

The incident reportedly occurred March 31 when Jovani Moss, 15, heard “crackling” of flames coming from a house across the street from his family’s residence in Melville, New York.

“I didn’t notice the fire at first,” Moss told local news reporters. “But I heard the crackling of the fire, and I turned to look and called my mom.”

Moss said he immediately alerted his mother, Natechia Moss, and asked whether he should go to the house or call 911.

Natechia reportedly instructed her son to contact emergency responders while she rushed outside her house to warn the homeowner. She repeatedly rang the doorbell but got no response and thus began kicking the door until it partially opened. “I kept kicking the door,” she said via the article “Finally, I got it ajar a little bit, and all of a sudden, I saw her standing there and I grabbed her and said, ‘Your house is on fire!’”

The homeowner had reportedly attempted to re-enter the burning residence to retrieve her cat and jewelry before eventually escaping safely. Firefighters from the Melville Fire Department responded to the blaze. No injuries were reported.

Moss has since been hailed as a hero for reacting quickly, though the teen downplayed the attention. “A lot of people calling me a hero,” he said via the report. “I was like, ‘I’m not really a hero. I’m just being a good neighbor.”

He credited his mother with setting the example and teaching him to stay aware of his surroundings.

“Take out the ear pods. Keep your phone in your pocket until you get on that bus,” Natechia said of the advice she gives her son. “Always be aware.”

Melville Fire Chief Donald Barclay praised the family’s actions. “We are thankful no one was hurt and that Jovani did the right thing and helped his neighbor. The world needs more Jovani,” said Barclay via the article. He also commended the department’s volunteer firefighters, saying the incident reflected “the idea of helping your neighbor in multiple ways.”

Written with assistance from AI.


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The post ‘Crackling’ House Fire Alerts Teen While Waiting for School Bus appeared first on School Transportation News.

Ex-Marine Helps Students After School Bus Rollover

A North Greene alum and Marine Corps veteran was the first to assist students and staff after a school bus rollover Wednesday in Illinois. He helped guide passengers to safety before emergency crews arrived, reported My Journal Courier.

Kendrick Ballard, 44, of Jerseyville, said via the news report that he was driving his 12-year-old stepson to White Hall Park when they came upon the crash scene.

“The bus was on its side, and I knew the kids needed assistance getting out there and out of there as quickly as possible,” the ex-Marine told local news.

According to the article, Ballard immediately pulled over and began helping students exit the bus and moved them away from the roadway. Video recorded by his stepson shows Ballard directing students to safety and assisting them as they exited through the rear doors.

Rollover Crash Could Have Been Far Worse

Eleven students and one staff member were reportedly injured in the rollover crash. Ballard said most of the injuries appeared minor.

“There were some kids with some scrapes, and they were bleeding a little bit, but from what I saw, most of them were just really shook up,” he continued.

Ballard said he was unaware his stepson had begun recording video until later. The footage was subsequently shared with local media by a community member, who praised the ex-Marine’s willingness to act.

Ballard credited first responders and school staff, emphasizing their quick response. “It was a bad situation, but the first responders were fantastic, and North Greene’s teachers and staff were fantastic, too,” he said.

The incident reportedly marks at least the second time Ballard has been recognized for assisting others in an emergency. In 2010, the Marine Corps veteran helped rescue a woman and her two children from a car trapped in floodwaters in Springfield.

“I would like to think it was a natural instinct to go and save someone who was in trouble,” Ballard said at the time.


Related: ‘Hero’ Teacher Praised by Parent Florida School Bus Crash Evacuation
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Related: Colorado School Bus Driver Hailed Hero After Fire
Related: Oklahoma Student Hailed Hero After Helping Bus Driver During Medical Emergency

The post Ex-Marine Helps Students After School Bus Rollover appeared first on School Transportation News.

Loaded Gun On South Carolina School Bus Leads to Quick Arrest

An 18-year-old student was arrested after he brought a loaded gun onto a school bus headed to a South Carolina high school, Blythewood High School.

According to the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, Kelvin Figueroa was charged with carrying a weapon on school property.

Deputies were alerted of the situation Monday morning after another student on the bus sent a text message to 911 communications reporting that Figueroa was in possession of a firearm. Authorities said the tip prompted an immediate response from law enforcement.

School resource officers assigned to Blythewood High School along with additional deputies located and intercepted the bus as it arrived on campus. Officials said Figueroa was quickly detained upon arrival.

A search of his belongings led to the discovery of a loaded pistol inside his bag. Investigators said there was no indication that Figueroa had attempted to use it during the bus ride. No injuries were reported in connection with the incident.

It remains unclear where Figueroa obtained the loaded gun. He was taken into custody at the scene and transported to the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center, where he was booked. Jail records show he remains in custody, and no bond has been set as of Monday.

Officials have not said whether Figueroa will face disciplinary action from Blythewood High School or the Richland 2 School District. However, under state and federal law, firearm possession on school property typically carries a mandatory expulsion recommendation of at least one year, subject to district policy and due process.

Authorities Praise See-Something, Say Something Student

Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott praised the student who reported the gun, emphasizing the importance of speaking up in potentially dangerous situations.

“That took courage, and it made a difference,” Lott said in a statement. “Because of that student, we were able to intervene immediately and prevent a potentially dangerous situation.”

South Carolina State Director of Transportation Mike Bullman said while the incident was very serious, it was quickly and successfully contained. “In many cases, the most effective safeguard is human behavior rather than physical security,” he told STN. “From a transportation standpoint, we believe the system responded appropriately, and there is no evidence of a procedural breakdown based on what we know at this time.”

The incident underscores ongoing concerns about school safety and the role students can play in preventing violence via “See something, say something.” Law enforcement officials have increasingly encouraged the use of anonymous reporting tools and emergency communication systems to alert authorities to threats.

“We stress drivers and transportation officials the importance of being mindful and attentive to their surroundings, recognizing when something may be out of the ordinary, and the importance of the ‘See Something, Say Something’ culture,” Bullman said. “Certainly, in this case, it really paid off,” Bullman said.

Authorities have not released further details about potential motives or whether additional charges could be filed.


Related: South Carolina Man Arrested for Allegedly Pointing Gun at School Bus
Related: 9-Year-Old Arrested for Bringing Loaded Gun onto Florida School Bus
Related: North Carolina Student in Custody for Bringing Gun on School Bus
Related: Pennsylvania Student Arrested After Allegedly Bringing Gun on School Bus

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RouteWise AI Hits $100M in School Transportation Savings

We are excited to announce that our RouteWise AI platform has identified over $100 million in cumulative savings for school districts to date. As districts nationwide face severe driver shortages and budget constraints, RouteWise AI has become an essential tool for returning millions of dollars to classrooms, capturing hundreds of thousands of hours of previously lost learning time, and supporting district staff and bus drivers.

The Design Canvas for Modern School Transportation
Unlike traditional software that simply rearranges vehicles and routes, RouteWise AI serves as a strategic design canvas. The software considers every possible vehicle, student locations and individual needs, district policies (bell times and boundaries), local dynamics (traffic and construction), and transportation team preferences (rider mixing and route preferences).

By analyzing billions of these data points, RouteWise AI is able to design the right routing solution, provide various scenarios, and iterate on that plan constantly as new information becomes available. The platform has allowed districts to “look before they route,” modeling complex scenarios in hours to uncover non-intuitive efficiencies.

By identifying over $100 million in savings to date, RouteWise AI has delivered high-value outcomes including:

Eliminating Underutilized Routes: Analyzing a district’s entire fleet of available vehicles to identify opportunities to eliminate underutilized routes. By identifying the right vehicle and the right stop pairings for every student, the platform enables districts to match low-occupancy routes with small-capacity vehicles, and high-capacity routes with large buses, thereby maximizing the utilization of CDL drivers.

Operating Cost Reduction: Reducing operating budgets by 10–12% by identifying efficiencies in routing and vehicle-to-student matching. These identified savings allow districts to bridge budget gaps and redirect millions of dollars back into the classroom to support teacher salaries, student programs, and competitive driver pay.

Capital Budget Optimization: Reducing the total number of routes required to serve the student population. For every nine routes reduced through RouteWise AI optimization, a district can eliminate 10 planned vehicle purchases, avoiding costs between $150,000 and $400,000+ per bus.

Efficiency Without Trade-Offs: Identifying improved routing and vehicle use while ensuring students experience no increase in transit time through custom student commute settings. This allows districts to set firm parameters on maximum ride times, ensuring efficiency never comes at the expense of the student experience.

Class Time Hours Added Back: Optimizing route efficiency and on-time performance to ensure students spend less time in transit and more time in the classroom. In Colorado Springs School District 11, RouteWise AI helped increase on-time arrivals, recovering over 17,000 hours of invaluable learning time for students in a single school year.

By automating modeling that previously took months, RouteWise AI serves as a force multiplier, giving transportation teams the tools to solve challenges without compromising service.

Real-World Impact
The financial efficiencies identified by RouteWise AI are being used by districts to solve their most pressing human resource challenges.

“RouteWise AI provides the clarity essential to maximizing our resources. As we navigate a district-wide bell time transition, the platform delivers sophisticated analyses on route design, service windows, and deadhead miles in a fraction of the time it once took to compile manually. This agility allows us to simultaneously optimize our network and resolve operational pain points, ensuring our transportation system more effectively supports student achievement.”

—Oz Flores, Director of Transportation , Aurora Public Schools in Colorado

“RouteWise AI helps us think outside the box to find solutions that were previously not possible with existing tools. By leveraging RouteWise AI optimization, we’ve effectively integrated complex schedules and substantially reduced overloads, which has helped us maintain an average of two uncovered routes per day, a significant reduction from last year. RouteWise AI isn’t about replacing our staff — it’s an essential enhancement that helps our team find creative solutions to eliminate route overlaps and drive efficiency. RouteWise AI effectively positions us to better accommodate the diverse needs of our young scholars while ensuring that each one gets to school and home safely and on time.”

—Dr. Stacey Benson Taylor, Associate Business Manager of Dayton Public Schools in Ohio

Transforming the Industry Through Multimodal “Right-Sizing”
RouteWise AI has empowered districts to embrace a multimodal transportation model — the practice of using the right vehicle for the right student at the right time. By right-sizing school bus fleets, districts have been able to allocate expensive 72+ passenger buses to high-density routes while using smaller buses, vans, and even small vehicles for low-occupancy or geographically dispersed routes — ultimately reducing the immense strain on bus drivers and transportation staff.

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Students Praised for Stopping School Bus, Helping Driver During Medical Emergency

Five Mississippi middle school students are praised as heroes after stopping a moving school bus when their driver lost consciousness during a medical emergency.

The incident happened the afternoon of April 22 in the Hancock County School District, when a bus driver transporting students suddenly became incapacitated while behind the wheel.

“This afternoon, during middle school dismissal, a bus driver on Bus #22 experienced a medical emergency,” the district said in a statement. “We are grateful to report that all students are safe and were transported home safely. Students acted quickly to help ensure the bus was safely brought to a stop and then contacted emergency services. We are proud of our students for staying calm and acting responsibly.”

The driver, 45-year-old Leah Taylor, told local news reporters that she suffered an asthma attack while driving her usual route and lost consciousness.

“I had a medical emergency, and the students stepped up,” she said.

Surveillance video released by the district shows a chaotic scene unfolding inside the bus as Taylor slumps over and the vehicle begins to drift. Students can be seen quickly reacting, coordinating efforts to regain control and prevent a potentially serious crash.

“She kind of, sort of, like, fell over, like flopped over, and everyone started standing up,” student McKenzy Finch told local news reporters, describing the moment the situation became clear. According to the students, the bus began veering off course and picking up speed. That’s when several of them sprang into action.

Students Seize Their Hero Moment

“I saw that the bus was veering off to the side, then I grabbed the wheel,” said Jackson Casnave, one of the students credited with helping steer the bus back under control.

At the same time, sixth grader Darrius Clark made his way to the front and stepped on the brakes, bringing the vehicle to a stop.

Other students focused on getting help and assisting the driver. Eighth grader Kayleigh Clark called 911 while fellow eighth grader Destiny Cornelius helped administer Taylor’s medication.

“I saw her medication in her hand, and I saw her reaching for it. I knew that’s what she needed,” Cornelius told reporters.

The coordinated response by the group of students ensured the safety of everyone on board. No injuries were reported among the students. Emergency responders arrived shortly after and aided Taylor, who is expected to fully recover.

School officials and community members have since praised the students for their composure and quick thinking under pressure, noting that their actions likely prevented a serious accident. The district emphasized the importance of the students’ teamwork and presence of mind during the emergency.


Related: Oklahoma Student Hailed Hero After Helping Bus Driver During Medical Emergency
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Related: Teens Hailed Heroes in Kentucky School Bus Crash
Related: Mississippi Student Hailed a Hero After School Bus Crash

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Former School Bus Driver Sentenced to 16 Years for Sexual Assault

A former New York school bus and Uber driver will serve 16 years in prison for sexually abusing a 12-year-old girl over the course of nearly a year.

Miguel Enrique Diaz, 49, admitted in court that he repeatedly abused the 12–year-old child between December 2022 and October 2023, both inside his personal vehicle and at his home. At the time of the offenses, Diaz was working as both an Uber driver and a school bus driver at the Bay Shore School District.

Hewas sentenced April 24 to 16 years behind bars followed by 15 years of post-release supervision after pleading guilty to first-degree course of sexual conduct against a child, a Class B violent felony, according to Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney.

“This sentence is substantial, but it pales in comparison to the potential lifelong trauma the victim will endure,” Tierney said in a statement. “We hope the strength this young survivor showed in coming forward is the first step in her healing and encourages others to speak out.”

Mother’s Report Led to Investigation of School Bus Driver

The abuse came to light in March 2024, when the victim disclosed the incidents to her mother, who then contacted law enforcement. Following an investigation by the Suffolk County Police Department’s Special Victims Section, Diaz was arrested that same year.

Authorities said the investigation included interviews, evidence collection and coordination with prosecutors from the district attorney’s Child Abuse and Domestic Violence Bureau.

Diaz pleaded guilty March 17. He is expected to serve his sentence in a New York state correctional facility and will also register as a sex offender upon his release.

Officials did not disclose how the former school bus driver encountered the victim but emphasized that the case highlights the importance of vigilance when it comes to individuals in positions of trust, particularly those who work with or around children.


Related: Child Sexual Assault Charge for Colorado School Bus Driver
Related: Former Georgia School Bus Monitor Charged After Alleged Student Assault
Related: Connecticut School Bus Driver Charged After Alleged Failure to Stop Assaults
Related: Former New York School Bus Driver Accused of Assaulting Student

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Wisconsin School Bus Driver Retires After 54 Years Behind the Wheel

A long-time school bus driver retired on his birthday, after logging more than more than five decades behind the wheel, marking the end of a career that spanned generations of students, reported WMTV15 News.

Jerry Radke, who started driving in 1973, completed his final route March 3 after 54 years with Reedsburg Area School District.

“I love driving. I’m so used to driving, I feel lost if I’m not driving,” Radke said via the news report.

The Wisconsin school bus driver was reportedly working on his family farm and hauling milk as a truck driver when a school transportation director approached him about the job.

“To be honest with you, I never applied for this job,” Radke said. “He came out to my farm and asked if I’d be interested in a bus route.”

Radke took the position and balanced driving with farm work for years, milking cows each morning before starting his route. Over the decades, he transported thousands of students, including multiple generations of the same families. Some parents said Radke once drove them to school and later drove their children.

“He’s driven them all,” Jessica Oetzman of Loganville told local news reporters.

Radke said, adding that he decided to retire because of his age and concern for student safety.

“Because I’m 87 years old and you just never know what’s going to happen,” he said. “Number one is to keep the kids safe.”

Retired Wisconsin School Bus Driver Found Solace Behind the Wheel

Driving also helped him cope with the personal loss of his wife in 2002. “It satisfied my soul,” Radke said. “If I wouldn’t have kept driving, I wouldn’t be here anymore.”

Students, staff, and community members marked his final day with celebrations. A high school band performed “Happy Birthday,” and residents gathered with signs and balloons along his route. “He is such a wonderful man,” Oetzman said.

The retired Wisconsin school bus drive said he plans to spend more time with family.

“I miss this already,” he said. “It’s going to be very different.”

Written with assistance from AI.


Related: Retired Man Now Drives a School Bus and Sings to Children
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Related: Iowa Student Saves Mom with Handwritten Note to School Bus Driver

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Life-saving Trio Honored for Life-Saving Actions During School Bus Emergency

The New York State Police recognized three individuals for their swift and life-saving actions during a medical emergency involving a school bus driver earlier this year in Oneida County.

The state police said the emergency unfolded Jan. 5 in the Town of Verona at approximately 12:25 p.m., as a school bus traveled along State Route 365 near the intersection with State Route 31. During the route, the unidentified school bus operator xperienced a severe medical event, creating a dangerous situation for passengers onboard and other motorists.

Dina Johnson, an employee of First Student who was on the bus at the time of the incident, along with bus aide Kately Vasquez and passing motorist Stephen Dillon, were formally honored for their roles in responding to the incident.

Authorities said Johnson acted immediately, taking control of the moving bus and safely bringing it to a stop. Her actions prevented the vehicle from continuing uncontrolled and helped ensure the safety of those on board.

At the same time Vasquez, worked to assess the condition of the incapacitated driver and began coordinating an emergency response. Recognizing the urgency, Johnson flagged down Dillon, who was driving by and stopped to assist.

Dillon and Vasquez then worked together to perform life-saving measures on the bus driver while awaiting first responders. Johnson contacted 911 and remained actively involved in managing the situation until emergency medical personnel arrived and took over care.

State police said the coordinated efforts of Dillon, Vasquez and Johnson were critical in stabilizing the situation and preventing further harm.

Life-saving Trio Recognized for Rapid Response

In recognition of their life-saving actions, the trio were honored by Major Marc A. Barbera, commander of Troop D, along with Capt. Paul T. Kuropatwinski and Lt. Scott T. Kedenburg. Officials said their response demonstrated teamwork, composure, and a strong commitment to public safety.

While authorities did not release an update on the bus driver’s condition, they emphasized that the rapid response by those on scene played a key role in addressing the emergency.

Incidents involving medical emergencies behind the wheel can quickly escalate, particularly when they involve vehicles transporting students. State police noted that the actions taken by Dillon, Vasquez and Johnson highlight the importance of preparedness and quick decision-making in high-pressure situations.

State police said the recognition was intended to honor the individuals’ actions and to emphasize the importance of cooperation and awareness during emergencies. The ceremony concluded with commendations presented to Johnson, Vasquez, and Dillon, recognizing their efforts to protect others during a moment of crisis.


Related: ‘Hero’ Teacher Praised by Parent Florida School Bus Crash Evacuation
Related: Oklahoma Student Hailed Hero After Helping Bus Driver During Medical Emergency
Related: Minnesota School Bus Driver Hailed Hero for Avoiding Head-On Crash With Semi
Related: Georgia School Bus Driver Named “Hidden Hero” After Saving Student’s Life

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‘Hero’ Teacher Praised by Parent Florida School Bus Crash Evacuation

A parent is calling a kindergarten teacher a hero after he helped children escape a school bus following a crash April 2, near the Jacksonville Zoo, reported News 4 Jax.


Mandy Rubin spoke at a Duval County school board meeting, recounting the moments after a semi-truck rear-ended a bus carrying about 30 San Pablo elementary school students.

Rubin reportedly said teacher Franz Lerch helped keep her son calm and safely freed him from his seat in the chaotic aftermath of the crash.

“Mr. Lerch, in an extreme moment of crisis, was calm and collected, keeping my child calm while he worked to cut him loose from his seat,” Rubin said.

She urged district leaders to formally recognize Lerch, calling his actions selfless and courageous.

“He’s a hero in every sense of that word,” Rubin stated. “I also know that he would not single himself out. I know that any teacher would have acted similarly without thought for themselves. Because, to a public-school teacher, any child is their child.”

Student Injuries Could Have Been Worse Without Hero’s Actions

Her comments reportedly drew applause from those attending the meeting. Duval County Schools Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernier also addressed the crash during the meeting, acknowledging staff at San Pablo Elementary School. He recognized the school’s assistant principal for stepping in to help lead the campus while the principal went to the hospital following the incident.

Four children were reportedly injured and taken to the hospital, while a fifth person was also transported. Reported injuries include two broken legs, cuts to the head and chest pain. Officials have not released updates on the conditions of those injured.

According to the article, the semi-truck driver told police he saw the bus stopped at railroad tracks and attempted to brake, but said his brakes were not working. The driver reportedly swerved in an attempt to avoid the bus but was unable to prevent the collision.

The investigation into the crash remains ongoing as families and school officials continue to recover from the incident.


Related: New York School Bus Driver Dies After Medical Emergency
Related: Brother and Sister Help Save School Bus Driver During Medical Emergency in Ohio
Related: Massachusetts School Bus Driver Crashes into Trees Due to Medical Emergency
Related: Minnesota Student Radios Help After School Bus Driver Suffer Medical Emergency


Editor’s Note: The article states “cut the seats.” STN inferred the article is relating to seatbelts, especially as Florida law requires the lap restraints. 

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Massachusetts Bus Driver Suffers Life-Threatening Emergency with 26 Students On Board

A school bus driver in Cape Cod town suffered a “life-threatening” medical emergency, causing a crash that sent the school bus carrying 26 students into a tree, reported CBS News.

The crash reportedly occurred April 13 at around 8:40 a.m. near an intersection n Mashpee, a town of about 15,000 people in Barnstable County.

Mashpee police said the school bus driver experienced an apparent medical episode while transporting students, ages 6 to 12, to school. The bus came to a stop after striking a tree on the side of the road. Photos from the scene showed a cracked windshield and front-end damage.

The bus driver was taken to Cape Cod Hospital with what was described as a life-threatening condition. Authorities did not release the bus driver’s name or provide further details about the medical emergency.

One student was transported to Falmouth Hospital as a precaution. No serious injuries among the children were reported. Mashpee Superintendent Michele Conners said via the article that the bus, identified as M11, was on route to Quashnet Intermediate School and Kenneth C. Coombs School at the time of the crash.

“We are very thankful that no students were seriously injured,” Conners said via the news report. “Our thoughts are with the driver, who has been a valued member of our transportation team, as she receives medical care. “Conners also thanked first responders for their swift actions.

School district representatives did not respond to a School Transportation News email asking for an update on the school bus driver’s condition.

School officials reportedly said counselors and support staff are being made available to assist students who may have been shaken by the incident. The Mashpee Police Department is investigating the crash. Authorities have not indicated whether any additional factors contributed to the incident beyond the reported medical emergency.


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School Bus Aides Fill Critical Safety Role for all Students

CONCORD, N.C. — School bus aides are often under-recognized for the roles they serve in student transportation, particularly for children with disabilities, but they provide much-needed assistance to school bus drivers regardless of the route being driven, industry leaders said during a session at STN EXPO East.

Panelists at the conference last month emphasized that school bus aides — often referred to as attendants, monitors or, in New York City, matrons — are responsible for far more than child supervision. Their duties include supporting students’ social and emotional needs, managing behavior, assisting with medical situations, and ensuring safe transportation from stop to stop. School bus routes operated for children from birth to kindergarten are required by federal Head Start regulations.

“We aid and support those students … regardless [of] what disability,” said Stephanie Walker, a transportation leader and certified instructor from Habersham County Schools in Georgia. “Our goal is to have a safe and positive ride.”

Stephanie Walker makes a point during the school bus aides panel at the 2026 STN EXPO East.

The panelists highlighted a shift in terminology, reflecting the evolving role. Many districts have moved away from bus monitor or attendant, which suggests passive observation, toward bus aide, a title that better captures the hands-on responsibilities required.

Training and clear expectations are critical, said Teena Mitchell, special needs transportation coordinator for Greenville County Schools in South Carolina and past-president of the National Association for Pupil Transportation. She stressed that detailed job descriptions help prevent confusion and improve safety outcomes.

“The safety of these kids depends on what they know they have to do and what the expectations of them are,” Mitchell said.

Teena Mitchell advocates for improved training of school bus aides during the March 20, 2026 panel session.

School bus aides are expected to perform tasks such as securing wheelchairs, assisting with emergency medications, monitoring student behavior and helping students safely board and exit the bus. Panelists said aides should be actively engaged, including greeting students and ensuring proper seating at every stop.

Staffing Aides Based on Student Needs

The discussion also underscored the importance of proactively staffing buses based on student needs, not just legal requirements. Mitchell referenced a South Carolina case in which a district faced a multimillion-dollar settlement after a student was harmed on a bus without an aide.

“You need to know who’s on your bus,” she said, urging transportation departments to collaborate more closely with special education teams.

Comprehensive training programs are essential, the panelists agreed. Some districts require several days of instruction covering disability awareness, equipment securement, emergency response and de-escalation strategies. Ongoing evaluations, including written and physical tests, help ensure aides can perform under pressure.

Emergency preparedness was a major focus. Panelists cited demonstrations showing how quickly a bus fire can escalate, emphasizing the need for regular evacuation drills.

“If you can’t evacuate them in one minute and 16 seconds, they’re going to die,” Mitchell said.

Beyond safety, school bus aides also contribute to students’ emotional well-being. Building trust through consistent, respectful interaction can improve behavior and communication, particularly for students with special needs.

“If you’re not pouring into that child, that child’s not going to build that bridge with you,” Walker said.

Cross-Department Collaboration

Panelists encouraged districts to leverage resources such as school nurses, behavioral specialists, and classroom aides to provide consistent support across all settings. They also highlighted the importance of ongoing oversight, including reviewing bus video footage and conducting spot checks to ensure aides are following procedures.

Despite the critical nature of the role, staffing and compensation remain ongoing challenges. Many districts struggle to recruit and retain qualified aides, in part due to lower pay compared to other positions.

Mitchell said some districts have improved wages by classifying aides as “safety-sensitive” employees, helping to elevate the role’s importance.

Speakers also urged transportation leaders to collect and share data demonstrating the value of aides, including reductions in behavioral incidents, improved student attendance and increased rider confidence.

“We do a lot that we do not sell,” said session moderator Launi Schmutz Harden. “You guys are the ones that can speak the story.”

As schools face increasing mental health needs and tighter budgets, panelists agreed that investing in trained school bus aides is essential to maintaining safe, supportive transportation systems.

Written with assistance from AI.


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School Bus Parade Honors 95-Year-Old Veteran Who Greets Students Daily

An Ohio veteran known for a simple daily gesture has brightened the lives of generations of schoolchildren. He received an unforgettable tribute for his 95th birthday, reported WLWT 5.

According to the news report, residents organized a school bus parade to pass by the home of Bob Jones, who for nearly two decades has made a habit of standing outside and waving as buses drive past. The surprise celebration turned the tables on Jones, whose friendly routine has long brought smiles to students and drivers alike.

As the line of buses rolled by last week, many children waved back enthusiastically, some opening windows to call out greetings to the man they know as “Mr. Bob.”

“I wave at the kids and bus drivers, and they wave back,” Jones told local news reporters. “A lot of people in the cars wave, and the kids roll the windows down and then holler, ‘Mr. Bob.’ Some of them say, ‘I love you.’”

Community Shares in Appreciation

Neighbors said the outpouring of affection reflects the impact Jones has had on the community. What began as a simple act of kindness has grown into a daily tradition that connects him with multiple generations of local families.

Shelly Tipton, a nearby resident, reportedly said her sister drives a school bus along the route and has witnessed firsthand how students respond to Jones. “This is the second or third generation of students that are coming by, and that we’ll say hi to him as they go past,” Tipton said.

She described Jones as a role model whose consistency and warmth have made a lasting impression on young people.

The birthday school bus parade was organized by community members who wanted to show appreciation for Jones’ years of positivity and service, both as a veteran and as a neighbor. For many, the event was a chance to give back to someone who has quietly given so much.

As the buses passed and horns sounded, Jones stood smiling and waving, just as he had for years. Only this time, the celebration was all for him.

Written with assistance from AI.


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Alleged Drunk Driving Lands Oregon School Bus Driver in Jail

Police in central Oregon arrested a school bus driver on suspicion of driving under the influence for a blood-alcohol concentration four times the legal limit for a commercial driver.

The school driver, identified as 67-year-old Martha Ann Gerlicher, reportedly completed one route for Bend La-Pine Schools April 3 and was preparing to begin another when a school district employee observed the alleged impairment.

According to a statement released by the City of Bend Police Department, the Bend-La Pine Schools transportation employee called authorities after suspecting Gerlicher was intoxicated. Earlier, Gerlicher had contacted the transportation office to report brake problems on her bus after finishing a route for Pine Ridge Elementary School. She was at High Desert Middle School to begin another route when the other transportation employee arrived around 3:15 p.m.

The employee reportedly found no mechanical issues with the bus but detected signs Gerlicher might be under the influence. Gerlicher was removed from the vehicle and taken to a private testing facility, where she reportedly showed high levels of alcohol.

Blood-Alcohol Testing Indicate Impairment

Police were then contacted and took Gerlicher into custody. Later testing administered at the Bend Police Department around 11 p.m., roughly seven hours after the alleged drunk driving and initial screening, indicated a bloodalcohol concentration of 0.16 percent. The legal limit  for all commercial driver’s license holders nationwide is 0.04 percent, half of the 0.08 legal limit for other motorists in Oregon.

Gerlicher was booked into the Deschutes County Jail on suspicion of driving under the influence of intoxicants and reckless endangerment. As of April 7, court records indicated no formal charges had been filed. No students were reportedly harmed during the alleged drunk driving incident.

In a statement to local news reporters, Bend-La Pine School District said that student safety remains its top priority and confirmed that Gerlicher was placed on leave pending further action.


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Semi-truck Driver Says Brakes Failed Before Florida School Bus Crash

A semi-truck driver says his brakes failed moments before he rear-ended a school bus carrying about 30 kindergarteners on a field trip April 9, reported News 4 Jax.

According to the news report, the Duval County school bus was transporting students from San Pablo Elementary School to the Jacksonville Zoo. It stopped at railroad tracks when it was struck from behind by the semi.

Four children were reportedly taken to the hospital with injuries. Injuries included two broken legs, cuts to the head and chest pain. Authorities have not released updates on the conditions of those injured.

According to the report, the semi-truck driver told police he saw the bus stopped at the tracks and attempted to brake but said his, “brakes were not working.” The driver swerved in an effort to avoid the collision but was unable to stop in time. He was cited for careless driving. Investigators noted he was not distracted at the time of the crash.

Investigation Into Vehicle Records

Dalya Farah, an attorney representing the families of three injured students, said the focus now shifts to the truck’s condition and maintenance history.

“We will most likely inspect the truck. There’s a lot of information on semi-trucks that we can’t obtain otherwise,” Farah said via the article.

She added that inspection records and maintenance logs will be critical in determining whether mechanical failure played a role or if other factors contributed. “When it comes to a semi case, there could be a lot of factors that go into fault,” she said.

Records reviewed by local news reporters show five other crashes linked to the trucking company, Universal Logistics Holdings, over the past two years. It is unclear whether the same semi-truck driver was involved or who was at fault in those incidents. The company has also undergone 74 inspections during that period, though that figure may include its entire fleet.

A company manager declined to comment when contacted by local news reporters, the article states.

Investigators continue to examine whether mechanical issues, including possible brake failure, contributed to the crash.

Written with assistance from AI.


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Seatbelt, Danger Zone Recommendations Highlight NTSB Discussion at STN EXPO East

CONCORD, N.C. — Federal safety officials are urging stronger seatbelt usage by students and increased awareness of dangers around school buses following a series of high-profile crashes, including a recent fatal incident under investigation in Tennessee.

In providing the parting takeways at STN EXPO East conference last month, Meg Sweeney, lead investigator and project manager for the National Transportation Safety Board, outlined how ongoing investigations and previous crash reconstructions are shaping new safety recommendations aimed at protecting student passengers and pedestrians.

“Our mission is to investigate crashes, determine a probable cause and then write recommendations to prevent future similar crashes,” Sweeney told attendees during the final conference session March 31.

The NTSB recently launched a “go team” to Tennessee after a fatal school bus crash killed two middle school students, though Sweeney said details remained limited in the early stages of the investigation. The crash took the lives of two middle school girls and parents of the deceased have since filed a lawsuit against the district and the driver.

The agency is also examining a separate student dragging fatality, underscoring the risks students face not only inside the bus but also in Danger Zone, the area immediately surrounding the vehicle during loading and unloading.

Sweeney said the agency focuses on crashes with the greatest potential to improve safety outcomes. With only about 35 staff members in its highway division, the NTSB investigates roughly 15 to 20 crashes annually out of tens of thousands reported nationwide.

“With a staff of 35 people… we have to be really selective in the crashes that we investigate,” she said, noting that cases often involve recurring safety issues or high public interest.

A key focus of recent investigations has been occupant protection, particularly the effectiveness of lap/shoulder seatbelts compared to traditional lap-only restraints or compartmentalization.

“We know and recognize that there are several other types of crashes,” Sweeney said, explaining that while compartmentalization works well in frontal impacts, it is less effective in rollovers, side impacts and other complex crash scenarios.

In multiple investigations, including crashes in Texas and New Jersey, the agency found lap-only belts provide limited protection. “They can provide a benefit… if they’re worn properly,” Sweeney said, but passengers remain “very vulnerable to injury from the flailing upper body.”

In the Leander ISD Texas rollover crash, that Director of Transportation Tracie Franco also presented during the conference, only six of 42 observed students were wearing seatbelts, and most were wearing them incorrectly. Students who were restrained were less likely to be thrown from their seats or ejected, though injuries still occurred due to the severity of the crash.

Based on such findings, the NTSB has repeatedly called on states to require lap/shoulder belts on large school buses and to strengthen enforcement of proper usage through driver training, onboard monitoring and clearer district policies.

Danger Zone Risks Examined

Beyond the bus interior, Sweeney emphasized that some of the most dangerous moments for students occur outside the vehicle.

One of the most dangerous areas for the student is the zone within about 10 feet of the bus, she said, particularly during pickup and drop-off times.

In a 2018 Indiana crash, a pickup truck traveling about 41 mph struck and killed four students crossing to board a stopped school bus despite warning lights and an extended stop-arm.

Other cases have highlighted the role of distracted driving. In Wisconsin, a teenage driver exchanging text messages struck a school bus and fatally hit a student moments later.

To address these risks, the NTSB has recommended stronger enforcement of stop-arm violations, expanded use of camera systems to catch illegal passing, and new vehicle technologies such as automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection systems.

“We asked school districts to work with law enforcement to create educational campaigns and high-visibility enforcement,” Sweeney said.

Despite the risks and ongoing challenges, Sweeney stressed that school buses remain the safest form of student transportation in the U.S.

“We advocate and tell people school buses are the safest way to transport a student,” she said.

Still, industry leaders at the session warned that driver shortages, operational challenges and declining ridership could increase risks if more families rely on personal vehicles instead of buses.

The Tennessee crash investigation is expected to produce a preliminary report in the coming months, with a final report, including safety recommendations, likely more than a year away.

Written with assistance from AI.


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Florida Driver Arrested After Train Strikes School Bus Carrying 29 Students

Florida law enforcement authorities arrested a veteran school bus driver for allegedly ignored railroad warning signals and driving into the path of an oncoming train that struck the rear of her vehicle with 29 students on board.

Yvonne Hampton, 67, a former driver for the Sumter County School District, faces charges of reckless driving, culpable negligence and 29 counts of child neglect without great bodily harm, according to the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office.

The crash occurred April 2 in Bushnell, Florida. Officials said a train clipped the back of school bus No. 2517 after Hampton drove onto the tracks despite active warning signals.

No injuries were reported, but students described the incident as terrifying.

Recounting the Near-Miss

Investigators reviewed surveillance video from inside the bus, which reportedly showed the railroad crossing’s warning arms and sirens were activated at about 4:07 p.m. as the bus approached. Six seconds later, a woman’s voice, believed to be Hampton, was heard saying, “Not gonna stop for no train,” before the bus proceeded across the tracks. Moments later, the train struck the rear left side of the bus. Only cellphone video recorded by students inside the bus has been publicly shared.

Students could be heard reacting in panic in the video, with one shouting, “There is a train coming!” Authorities said Hampton told students to “get in your seats” seconds before impact.

Hampton told deputies she was already moving across the tracks when the warning system activated and that she continued forward as far as possible. Investigators, however, allege she ignored the signals and made the decision to cross despite the approaching train.

Sumter County Sheriff Pat Breeden said in an update that deputies working with the school district conducted a thorough investigation that led to the Florida driver’s arrest.

Superintendent Logan Brown said Hampton had worked for the district since 2015 and resigned in lieu of termination following the incident.

“The trust that our families place in us to transport their children safely is something we take extremely seriously,” Brown said in a video statement. “Anyone who jeopardizes that trust will not work in the Sumter County School District.”

Alleged Neglect Could Have Been Disastrous

Brown emphasized how narrowly a more serious tragedy was avoided.

“When you look at the totality of this situation, we truly averted what could have been a catastrophic event,” he said, noting the collision missed a more severe impact by “a matter of six inches.”

Brown also praised the train conductor, who he said sounded the horn continuously and attempted to brake upon seeing the bus on the tracks.

“Based on everything we know, he did everything he was supposed to do, and in my view, he’s a hero in this situation,” Brown said.

Parents and students said the emotional impact remains significant. District officials said the crossing where the crash occurred lacks red traffic lights and provides limited clearance space for large vehicles after crossing the tracks. Following the incident, the district determined the location is unsafe for school bus routes and has since rerouted so school buses do not cross it.

Officials said they are reviewing additional safety measures. “We have also learned valuable lessons from this incident and are actively reviewing additional safety measures to ensure that something like this does not happen again,” Brown said.

Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing.


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Child Strangulation Charge for Arrested Virginia School Bus Driver

A Lynchburg school bus driver has been arrested for alleged child strangulation during an incident on a bus parked at an elementary school, reported WDBJ 7.

Police responded to an incident at Linkhorne Elementary School March 30, after receiving a report of a disorderly individual. An investigation later determined that a school bus driver allegedly assaulted a student while the bus was parked in the schools lot.

Authorities said via the article that the investigation, conducted in coordination with Lynchburg City Schools, revealed the student had been strangled during the encounter. The child did not suffer life-threatening injuries from the alleged strangulation and is considered safe.

Effie Wynn, 73, of Lynchburg, was arrested April 4, and charged with child strangulation and neglect. She is being held without bond at the Blue Ridge Regional Jail.

Police did not release additional details about what led to the incident or the circumstances surrounding the alleged assault. Officials also did not say whether other students were present on the bus at the time.

The case remains under active investigation, and additional charges could be possible as the investigation continues. Lynchburg City Schools has not publicly commented on the arrest but has reportedly been cooperating with law enforcement.

Authorities are asking anyone with information about the incident to come forward.


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