Meeting the daily challenges of transporting children with disabilities is real and
complex. These challenges are not new, but they are increasingly multifaceted. On top of the challenge list in many school districts is driver shortages, followed by the cost of transportation services. What can be overwhelming is the increase in competing priorities to safely transport children with disabilities.

The pressure resulting from how to accomplish safe transportation for these children can result in inadequate decision-making. Guided by the principles of safety, responsibility and entitlement under federal and state law it is imperative to aspire to respond to challenges for safe transportation of children with disabilities by timely addressing the “Do’s and Don’ts” under pressure. I am realizing more and more about the importance of knowing what is and is not required under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

In addition to federal law, it is critical to be well-versed about state law pertaining to the related service of transportation for eligible children under the IDEA. Under the
IDEA Part B regulations, transportation is defined as a related service that includes: “(i) Travel to and from school and between schools; (ii) Travel in and around school buildings; and (iii) Specialized equipment (such as special or adapted buses, lifts, and ramps), if required to provide special transportation for a child with a disability.” (34 CFR §300.34(c)(16).

At first glance, this IDEA definition appears clear. In reality, unique individual child transportation requirements necessitate extensive knowledge about the related service of transportation and its explicit requirements.

Understanding the role of the individualized education program (IEP) team’s responsibility under the IDEA to develop, approve and implement the related service transportation is essential. Approved transportation services should always be documented in the IEP to avoid misunderstandings and potential IDEA compliance violations. The IEP team meeting should always include all the qualified personnel necessary to make an informed decision, including the parent.

Don’t make unilateral transportation decisions without the attendance of all stakeholders that are required for implementing an IEP. The following is an example of a costly mistake that happened multiple times during my career. The IEP team, under pressure from a single parent, required that a child be picked up first and dropped off last.

This was solely based upon the parent’s work schedule and not the needs of her child, based upon their disability. Unknown to transportation, the IEP team approved the request. It was not feasible to implement but still approved and written into the child’s IEP. The parent emphatically stated her request was “required under the IDEA.” The IEP team was intimidated and believed her.

This IEP decision resulted in a hearing officers’ requirement for the school district to add a new route to implement the approved IEP service. Can you imagine the unintentional effect of this IEP team’s unilateral decision? Make sure that the IEP team is fully knowledgeable about the IDEA transportation related service requirements, and do not make a decision based upon false information.

Another example of a costly mistake is when a parent at an IEP meeting claims, citing IDEA, their child is required to be transported to after-school care 17 miles away from
their home address. The IEP team unwisely believes the parent and approves their request.

The lesson to be learned is don’t believe everything that a person says without knowing how the IDEA addresses a specific issue. Be knowledgeable about what state law says on a specific topic and how the school district’s policies and procedures address the issue. In the previous example, it is likely that if the school district transports children without disabilities to requested after-school care or daycare, the school district will also be required to do so for children with disabilities as a matter of equity. These are just two examples of challenges whereby poor decision-making resulted in an avoidable costly error.

It is essential to know federal and state laws pertaining to transportation service eligibility requirements for children with disabilities. It is wise to rethink in advance
how to best provide these transportation services for children with disabilities. Utilizing school transportation data can improve decision-making. Accessing all funding sources helps to offset costly transportation services. One example is billing Medicaid when it is an allowable transportation expense.

Communication and coordination between multiple school district departments is key to problem-solving. It is key to be knowledgeable and current about best practices and school transportation literature concerning safe transportation of children with disabilities.

Editor’s Note: As reprinted in the November  2024 issue of School Transportation News.

Linda F. Bluth, Ed.D. is a national compliance and regulatory expert on IDEA transportation law and provisions. She is a tenured faculty member of the TSD Conference, a regular STN contributor, and a Hall of Fame member of the National Association for Pupil Transportation.

Related: California ‘Rising Star’ Supports Students with Disabilities Through Driver Training, Education
Related: TSD Foundation Class Provides Basics to Transporting Students with Special Needs
Related:(STN Podcast E236) TSD 2024 Recap: Supporting Students with Special Needs as Unique People
Related: Sexual Abuse Prevention Expert Provides Strategies When Transporting Students with Disabilities

The post Recommended Do’s and Don’ts for Meeting the Challenges of Transporting Children with Disabilities appeared first on School Transportation News.

Student transportation is entering a new era, when access to real-time data, enhanced visibility for stakeholders, and higher safety standards will become essential pillars of operations.

School districts need to balance these new priorities with unprecedented pressure to meet equity goals and maintain tighter budgets. All these factors are challenging school leaders to reimagine how they transport students in the coming years.

Here are five key predictions shaping the future of student transportation in 2025:

1. Parents and Districts Will Demand More Visibility

The rise of smartphones requires instant access to information in school and beyond. Parents, teachers, and administrators all want real-time tracking updates and videos to ensure accountability and safety on school transportation. This year, the National Conference of State Legislatures reported that at least 50 percent of states have enacted school bus stop-arm camera laws, which ensure cameras are present to document incidents, monitor behavior, and uphold safety standards for everyone.

This demand for visibility extends beyond school buses to alternative transportation. New technology, including in-car cameras, ensures that school districts receive recorded and stored footage that verifies safe rides, monitors drivers, and clarifies any issues. Plus, school districts can close service gaps, dispatch providers, and keep families updated. In today’s environment, an extra level of visibility for all stakeholders is expected and essential.

2. Data and Machine Learning Will Become a Cornerstone of Future Operations

In 2025, route planning, driver assignments, and real-time adjustments will all rely on advanced analytics. Districts that harness data and machine learning through smart tools will see improvements in operational efficiency, increasing attendance rates.

The larger efforts to professionalize school district administrative offices are leading to data-driven decision-making. Many school districts are even hiring transportation directors with backgrounds in logistics and engineering. As school transportation evolves, districts will rely on experts who can understand and interpret complex analytics to streamline operations and improve outcomes.

3. Districts Will Advance Safety Standards

Safety remains a top priority for school districts, and new state legislation continues to raise the bar. California’s SB88, for example, goes into effect in 2025 and strengthens requirements for student transportation providers. At the local level, many districts are also increasing training protocols for drivers and requiring the use of safe technology to protect students and mitigate liability risks.

Next year, school districts will seek out partners that proactively adopt new safety technology and comply with district, state, and federal regulations. When alternative school transportation providers uphold the highest safety standards, they put students first while building necessary trust with administrators and parents.

4. Rising Demand for Equity-Focused Transportation Solutions

In 2025, the number of students experiencing homelessness and eligible for transportation support under the federal McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act will continue to rise. A 2023 report on Student Homelessness in America by the National Center for Homeless Education identified more than 1.2 million students experiencing homelessness in the U.S. in the 2021-2022 school year — a 10 percent increase from the previous year.

Without reliable transportation, students experiencing homelessness are at higher risk of chronic absenteeism. In fact, the same study found that more than half of homeless students in the 2021-2022 school year were chronically absent, and the absenteeism rate for students experiencing homelessness is 22 percent higher than the rest of the student population. School district leaders will need to find more ways to drive students experiencing homelessness to school, turning to alternative transportation providers to scale up support.

5. Budget Constraints Will Drive the Need for Operational Efficiency

Superintendents are under enormous pressure to meet new challenges with smaller budgets, given the expiration of pandemic relief funding, including the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief program. These stark changes mean that leaders must prioritize cost-efficiency while maintaining access for students who have special needs, are eligible for McKinney-Vento support, or live out of district or in remote areas without making large investments in new vehicles or new hires.

Moving forward, leaders will leverage tech-forward alternative transportation providers to understand and meet their transportation needs with a click. For example, if a district has a rising percentage of students eligible for McKinney-Vento support, they could choose to used small-capacity vehicles that can make last-minute adjustments based on the students’ locations. Flexing your capacity meets new demands while optimizing transportation costs for the short and long term.

Every school year, new challenges and higher expectations require that school district leaders innovate, evolving their approach for better outcomes. 2025 is no different. By integrating smart technology into their operations, they can drive up safety standards, increase capacity in real-time, and prioritize cost-effectiveness while meeting equity goals. Leaders will ensure they’re setting up their schools and students for success in the classroom, one ride at a time.

Mitch Bowling is the CEO of alternative transportation company EverDriven, which transported about 30,000 unique students last school year in 33 states.

The post Driving Change: 5 Predictions Shaping the Future of Student Transportation in 2025 appeared first on School Transportation News.

A new U.S. president will be announced to the world this month. Why does the outcome of the 2024 presidential race play a role in advancing school transportation? I believe the outcome will have a significant impact on the future of electric school buses, particularly through policy direction, federal funding, and regulatory support for clean energy initiatives.

The public perception and imagery of the dirty, black smoke-spewing school bus are things of the past. Today’s buses are cleaner, greener and safer than ever. Does the
school bus industry have a chance to shift the public’s perception of school buses as being antiquated? Absolutely.

Headlines abound, especially in the wake of the growing zero-emission school bus movement. Remember when Kamala Harris couldn’t resist sharing her love for school buses? “Who doesn’t love a yellow school bus?” she asked, emphasizing the nostalgic bond so many Americans have with these iconic vehicles.

This increased attention isn’t a coincidence. It aligns with an unprecedented wave of federal funding. The latest application round of EPA Clean School Bus Program funds offers $986 million dollars in rebates. I hope you’re taking full advantage of these funds to modernize your fleet, as it might be the last time we see this sort of unprecedented federal funding.

If the winning administration prioritizes green energy and climate action, could we expect continued or even increased federal support for electric school buses? Congress would have a say, but the Biden-Harris administration has already demonstrated strong support for transitioning to zero-emission vehicles. A new administration with similar priorities could push to expand these programs, increase funding, and implement more aggressive timelines for phasing out diesel buses. Conversely, an administration less focused on climate change might reduce or eliminate such funding, slowing the progress toward electrification in school transportation.

Still, some transportation directors have told me electric school buses don’t make sense for their school districts because of battery range limitations, or they simply found them too complex to navigate with local utilities and infrastructure partners.

At STN EXPO West in Reno, Nevada, this past summer, I heard a lot of renewed interest in diesel school buses, which are cleaner and more efficient than ever before. Yet while newer models and engine technologies have made great strides due to EPA and California Air Resources Board emission standards, the reality is that environmental concerns and negative public perceptions persist, especially in districts where budget constraints prevent timely fleet upgrades. Many school districts are still relying on aging, less fuel-efficient buses, with older engine or emission technology that contributes to a larger carbon footprint.

Federal regulations on emissions standards play a key role in driving the transition to electric vehicles. A president who prioritizes environmental regulations would likely continue or strengthen mandates that push school districts to adopt electric buses over traditional diesel ones. Tighter emission rules could force the retirement
of older, higher polluting buses, creating an increased demand for electric alternatives. Conversely, a president who favors deregulation might relax emission standards, making it easier for school districts to continue operating older diesel fleets without financial or regulatory pressure to upgrade.

Perceptions are shaped by media coverage, politics, public opinion, and how well we communicate the advancements in school bus technology and environmental impact. With the right messaging, we can shift the narrative toward one that highlights the progress we’re making.

In many cases, the gap between perception and reality boils down to communication. Stakeholders—parents, school officials, and government representatives—need to understand the complexities of operating school buses, including the challenges posed by budget limitations and aging vehicles. We also need to emphasize the advancements being made, particularly with green energy.

The yellow school bus is more than a means of transportation. It’s a symbol of family, education and community. The time is now to redefine the public’s perception and showcase the modern realities of school transportation.

The presidential race will either accelerate or slow the adoption of electric school buses, depending on the winning candidate’s stance on environmental policy, regulatory frameworks, infrastructure development, and economic incentives. A government committed to sustainability and clean energy would likely propel the school bus industry toward an electric future.

Whatever the outcome of this election, it’s up industry stakeholders like you to spread the word about the benefits of all school buses—a future that’s safer, greener and cleaner than ever before.

Editor’s Note: As reprinted in the November 2024 issue of School Transportation News.

Related: (STN Podcast E216) Right Tools & Right People: Driver Shortage, Electric Buses & More in NY
Related: Why the EPA Shouldn’t Favor Electric School Buses
Related: 5 Ways Large Districts Can Improve Transportation Operations with Technology
Related: Managing Transportation Data and Keeping It Safe

The post Red, Blue, Green & Yellow appeared first on School Transportation News.

School Transportation News staff weigh many factors when looking for the next Transportation Director of the Year. Accomplishments in the industry, especially over the past couple of years, weigh heavily. So, too, do their leadership skills. There are
plenty of options to choose from each year, which is a good thing. It can also make the selection a daunting one. Thankfully, we have many examples to use as a litmus test for what makes a strong and successful director of transportation.

Look no further than George Edward (Ed) Donn. You may have read at stnonline.com/go/kp that Ed died last month at the age of 85. He was one of the most decorated student transporters in the industry’s history. He was also as nice as he was knowledgeable about his trade. The dictionary should have Ed’s photo next to the word “gentleman.”

I was saddened when, during an introduction of the NAPT Foundation board members at last month’s Annual Conference and Trade Show in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, it was mentioned that Ed was unable to attend. I wondered about his health. I knew he was heartbroken following the death of wife Sandi in 2001. I spoke to him several times since then, most recently this past spring. He was still the same old Ed, kind, complimentary, insightful, and asking about my family. But something was different.

My heart was lightened upon learning that he died peacefully at a hospital in Marietta, Georgia, located about an hour southwest of his home in Calhoun. He relocated there in the early 1990s after retiring from Washington County Public Schools in Maryland, where he served as director of transportation for 16 years. Before that, he was the assistant director at Prince George’s County Public Schools also in Maryland.

He not only left an impression on tens of thousands of student riders over his career but as many student transportation professionals. It was Ed who co-founded the NAPT Foundation and the NAPT Professional Development Series. He was immortalized in the NAPT Hall of Fame for his efforts and received the NAPT Distinguished Service Award. He was an entrepreneur, co-founding video surveillance company Bus Vision and then 24/7 Security.

But knowing Ed, his accomplishments were never about himself but others, especially the students who ride school buses every day and the many professionals who make the service work. Always giving of his time, both humbly and generously, he was as genuine as they come. The consummate family man. Mind as sharp as a tack. In his hey-day, he was quite the track athlete as well.

After he passed on Oct. 10, I reflected on the parallels between his life and STN’s director of the year honor, which we recognize this month. Innovative. Leader. Transparent. Giving. Check, check, check, check. The recognition could very well be renamed the Ed Donn Transportation Director of the Year Award.

Craig Beaver, this year’s winner (read the article by Taylor Ekbatani, starting on page 28) has literally come a long way since he got his start in student transportation. To be exact 1,111 miles.

A lifelong resident of the San Diego, California area, Beaver retired as director of transportation from Grossmont Union High School District in January 2015 and relocated to Oregon, where he joined Beaverton School District. It was destiny, as Beaver says, to reinvent himself in the Pacific Northwest at one of Oregon’s largest school districts, his namesake, so to speak.

With that move, he has ushered in the state’s largest fleet of electric school buses and with them data to illustrate performance and cost savings. He readily shares that information and the many lessons he learned about implementation and deployment to anyone who asks. He’s willing to try new things and is not afraid of failure. He empowers his staff to see if they can make new ideas work, which sometimes means recalibrating. For his efforts, he also accepted the Leading Public Fleet Award for Beaverton School District at the Advanced Clean Transportation Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada, in May.

Beaver and all those who came before him, and will come after, have large shoes to fill left by Ed Donn. But surely, he is looking down from heaven with pride. Ed was ready and willing to support and celebrate all endeavors and people that put school buses in a positive light and that lead to successful outcomes for the children who ride them.

Editor’s Note: As reprinted in the November 2024 issue of School Transportation News.

Related: (STN Podcast E234) Leadership, Awarded: Meet the 2024 Transportation Director of the Year
Related: Oregon School District Maintenance Internship Program Yields Success
Related: NAPT Hall of Famer Donn Remembered for ‘Crucial Role’ Played in Industry
Related: Speakers Share Strategies for NAPT Attendees to Cultivate Positive Mindsets, Superhero Traits

The post Donning a Leadership Cap appeared first on School Transportation News.

As fall approaches, it’s an ideal time to think about your team’s professional growth. Three
upcoming school transportation conferences offer a great chance to enhance leadership skills, stay informed on industry trends and build valuable networks. These events are crucial for anyone looking to lead in the evolving school transportation industry.

The National Association of Pupil Transportation conference, happening at the start of this month in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, carries the theme “You Lead the Way. We’ll Help You Get There.” The 2024 conference promises a wealth of networking opportunities with industry peers and suppliers. Attendees can look forward to Professional Development Sessions (PDS), lively discussions on key industry challenges, and a host of networking events. Be sure to stop by booth #619 at the trade show to meet the School Transportation News team and make new connections.

Then, next month, the National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services returns to the Washington, D.C., area for its annual conference. The event is an excellent opportunity to hear from federal agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, the National Transportation Safety Board, and the Transportation Security Administration about the latest regulations and program affecting student transportation.

Sandwiched between the two is the Transporting Students with Disabilities & Special Needs (TSD) Conference is set for Nov. 7-12 in Frisco, Texas. This conference offers a unique focus on special needs transportation training and technology, with highlights such as four keynote speakers and over two dozen expert-led workshops. Attendees can also look forward to the Special Needs Roadeo Competition and an exciting Technology Demonstration & Ride & Drive Experience on Friday, Nov. 8.

The TSD Conference provides attendees with a deep dive into the latest trends and best practices for special needs support with the goal of improved student success. These insights not only enhance your team’s professional skills but also create pathways for personal growth. The chance to learn from seasoned professionals in the field adds tremendous value to the experience for attendees.

“Attending the TSD Conference is an invaluable experience,” said Christie Hebert, the state director of school bus transportation at the Texas Department of Safety. “The opportunity to engage with peers and industry experts in such a specialized setting is essential for professional growth. Conferences like TSD provide a platform to not only expand your knowledge and develop new skills but also to stay ahead of industry advancements. The networking and trade show sessions allowed me to exchange innovative ideas, build connections, and gain insights that are critical for improving school transportation services, particularly for students with disabilities and special needs.”

Engaging in trade shows and networking events exposes participants to cutting-edge technologies and potential business partnerships. A key aspect of attending these conferences is the opportunity to collaborate with fellow professionals and tackle current challenges with fresh, innovative approaches. Interactions with exhibitors provide crucial insights that help integrate new technology with your operational strategies.

Conferences aren’t just about professional advancement, they offer enjoyable, enriching experiences as well. They allow attendees to reconnect with old colleagues and establish new relationships. For those aiming to broaden their professional network, these interactions often lead to future opportunities, creative problem-solving and fruitful collaborations that benefit both the individual and the organization or school district.

I personally invite you to register for the TSD Conference in Frisco, Texas. Visit tsdconference.com/agenda for more details on the keynotes, educational sessions and networking events.

Investing in conferences and leadership programs offers countless benefits for both professionals and organizations. These events provide opportunities to acquire new knowledge, network with peers and gain motivation from inspiring speakers. For anyone serious about professional development, attending conferences is a key step toward future success and growth.

Editor’s Note: As reprinted in the October 2024 issue of School Transportation News.

Related: TSD Conference Sessions to Push Attendees to Uncover Innovative Solutions
Related: Roadeo Returns to Texas for Hands-On Emergency Training at TSD Conference
Related: Download App for Upcoming TSD Conference
Related: Behavior Expert Brings Special Needs De-Escalation Tools to TSD Conference

The post Why Professional Development Matters appeared first on School Transportation News.

At the 2022 Transporting Students with Disabilities (TSD) Special Needs Conference, I
had the opportunity to facilitate a presentation on “Navigating the IDEA: Implementing
Appropriate Transportation Services for Children with Disabilities.” This presentation included three distinguished panelists, my fellow TSD Tenured Faculty members Launi Schmutz-Harden, Alexandra Robinson and Susan Shutrump. It was during this presentation, I passionately advocated for the provision of safe transportation in all modes of school transportation for children with disabilities.

I emphasized there was an urgent need for the next meeting of the 17th National Congress on Student Transportation (NCST) in May 2025 to adopt standards for all allowable school transportation vehicles serving children. The importance of alternative school transportation standards being adopted at the next NCST should not be underestimated.

A few days prior to attending the TSD Conference, a parent called me and asked, “Now that my child is no longer assigned to a yellow school bus and is transported in a van, can you assure me that this vehicle is as safe as the yellow school bus?” My answer, with zero reluctance, was “No.”

She went on to ask who can assure her that the van that her child was being transported in was as safe as the yellow school bus. I replied, “I don’t know.” Politely, she commented she was shocked that a long-time supporter of school transportation safety had no response or contact information to address her concerns. Consequently, my journey to establish the necessity for NCST to address the matter of alternative transportation vehicles and school transportation safety begun. Meeting this goal was an unyielding commitment.

In the January 2023 School Transportation News issue, Ryan Gray’s Editor’s Take, titled “Yellow or Not, Uniform Minimum Standards Are Needed,” also addressed the need. He stated, “Linda Bluth advised the [TSD Conference] audience during a Nov. 11 general session on the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and transportation as a related service that the National Congress on Student Transportation (NCST) must take up the issue and set standards that these alt transportation providers are all beholden to. After all, she noted, nowhere in the IDEA is school bus mentioned, only transportation. There is a place for these companies to supplement the work of school buses, Bluth added.”

Ryan’s article provided encouragement to contact the NCST leadership and make a strong case for the inclusion of a new committee to specifically address alternative school transportation vehicles. After multiple efforts, I was pleased to learn that the Non- Traditional Vehicle Writing Committee, now referred to as the NCST Alternative Transportation Committee, was in place under the leadership of Tyler Bryan, the education associate for school transportation at the Delaware Department of Education. I was pleased to be informed that I was one of the committee’s writing team members. The membership of this writing committee includes diverse stakeholders with multiple perspectives on alternative school transportation.

Simultaneously, the National Association for Pupil Transportation (NAPT) under the leadership of Peter Mannella, public policy and communications liaison as well as chairperson of the public policy committee, wrote a paper approved by the NAPT Board on Alternative School Transportation Services. This paper contains the following statement. “NAPT believes that every entity which intends to transport children to and from school needs to meet certain standards of safety. Given the well-documented safety record that the school bus has attained, we believe that alternative transporters must rise to the same or similar standards to achieve that record for the children being transported.”

This statement is a part of the NAPT position paper on Alternative Transportation Services that is available in its entirety on the NAPT website and at stnonline.com/go/k9. As a member of this committee, I was pleased to have the opportunity to provide input. My committee involvement provided a further opportunity to advocate for inclusion of the topic Alternative Transportation Services at the upcoming NCST next May in Des Moines, Iowa.

My never-ending agenda was to continue to challenge the NCST to address the need for minimum standards for the use of alternative school transportation for all students. Most specifically, vulnerable individuals such as children with disabilities, homeless students and students residing in foster care that utilize alternative school transportation vehicles.

I am committed to advocating for the appropriate and safe use of alternative transportation services for children with disabilities when the yellow school bus cannot meet an individual child’s needs. This decision should only be determined by the individualized education program (IEP) team, including appropriate school and transportation personnel. It is crucial that school district and contract providers, school district personnel, drivers, parents and students as appropriate, are involved in these decisions. The IEP process is the appropriate mechanism for taking all the steps necessary to make an informed decision to provide safe transportation and meet the individual needs of a child with a disability.

At the annual IEP meeting, the IEP team should evaluate whether alternative transportation is necessary or whether the student can be transported on the school bus. Under the IDEA it is required that all school transportation personnel, including substitute personnel, receive training in accordance with federal and state regulations. Training of direct and indirect transportation personnel should always be consistent with recommended transportation services on an individual child’s IEP, in order to provide safe transportation.

Undisputable is the necessity to ensure safe and reliable transportation is a top priority. The school transportation literature persuasively notes that the yellow school bus is the safest form of school transportation and unarguably should always be considered the first means of school transportation. However, it is acknowledged that the yellow school bus cannot always meet each individual student’s specific needs. With that being said, there is no sustainable excuse to delay the setting of recommended uniform minimum standards at the upcoming NCST, to address safety regardless of the mode of school transportation.

In summary, from my past experience and efforts, the NCST has been resistant to include non-school transportation vehicles in the National Specifications and Procedures document. The inclusion of the NonTraditional Vehicle Writing Committee at the 17th NCST is a long awaited and welcomed change. I am hopeful, that the recommendations of the Non-Traditional Vehicles Committee will be adopted by the 17th NCST and included in the next National School Transportation Specifications and Procedures manual. In reality, there is no defensible rationale to reject the work of the NCST Alternative Transportation Committee attempting to improve the safety of all children transported to and from school, regardless of mode of school transportation.

Editor’s Note: As reprinted in the October 2024 issue of School Transportation News.

Linda F. Bluth, Ed.D. is a national compliance and regulatory expert on IDEA transportation law and provisions. She is a tenured faculty member of the TSD Conference, a regular contributor to School Transportation News, and a National Association Pupil Transportation Hall of Fame member.

Related: TSD Conference Sessions to Push Attendees to Uncover Innovative Solutions
Related: NAPT Awards Highlight Individuals for Outstanding Achievements, Excellence
Related: Behavior Expert Brings Special Needs De-Escalation Tools to TSD Conference
Related: Special Education Attorney to Discuss Avoiding Legal Hazards of Student Transportation

The post Beyond the Yellow School Bus: Alternative School Transportation appeared first on School Transportation News.

In August, I was contacted by a writer for Slate magazine to comment on school startup challenges. Inevitably, the conversation turned to the school bus driver shortage.

The writer and I spoke about a number of issues for over 30 minutes. We could have talked for three days. Only one of my comments made his article, “School bus drivers have not been at the top of the payscale, and the work has traditionally attracted a lot of older folks.”

The reporter followed with a summary of my explanation about the impact COVID-19 had in causing some transportation employees to retire or otherwise leave the industry prematurely. He reiterated what I told him about the increased competition for drivers from the likes of not only Amazon but also Uber, Lyft and the increasing number of student-focused, alternative transportation companies. Even from neighboring school districts and school bus contractors.

What didn’t make the article was the efforts the school transportation industry has been making to attract and retain drivers, like increasing salaries and bettering workplace culture.

As to the latter, he alluded to what I referred to as the top one or two challenges facing school bus drivers: Student and parent behavior. In a subsequent interview with a Bloomberg News reporter, I expanded on this topic, discussing the demoralization of school bus drivers who feel they are not adequately supported by school district administrators and principals because of a lack of understanding about the vital role transportation plays in a child’s educational day. That importance is illustrated by the ongoing issue playing out in Chicago Public Schools.

There, special education advocates have filed the latest complaint against the third-largest school district in the U.S. for a lack of required transportation for students with disabilities. Months after it emerged from special monitoring by the Illinois State Board of Education, with a grade of “sufficient progress” on solving unreliable school busing, CPS once again finds itself in the crosshairs as the ongoing school bus driver shortage had resulted in over 2,200 students with IEPs awaiting routes at this report. The school district did increase, by 5 percent, the number of students with disabilities on school buses from the start of school on Aug. 26 through the second week of September.

A district spokesperson noted for Chalkbeat Chicago that the number of certified school bus drivers also increased over last school year. But as special education advocates noted in their complaint, the lack of bus service amounts to “widespread denial” of a “free and appropriate education.”

There is no simple solution to ongoing school bus shortages, which have been an issue for decades. Certainly COVID-19 played a large role in exacerbating them. So, too, have elongated delays between new driver applicant training and them receiving their commercial driver’s license. As I explained to the Bloomberg News reporter, few people outside of transportation circles comprehend the time necessary to train, background check and certify school bus drivers. The slightest delay could mean losing the applicant to another job and starting the entire process over again.

Meanwhile, students and their parents are losing out. I often hear that the school transportation model is “broken.” I prefer to say it is unsustainable in its current form. It’s not for a lack of trying, but evolution is necessary, and it’s fixable. This comes via fresh ideas and continued hard work. Student transportation, traditionally speaking, is well-versed in the former, not so much the latter.

Today, more than any other time before it, new solutions are required as are new leadership perspectives. The industry will also take increased funding from state legislatures and voters, but that requires transparency and efficiency like never before. For example, non-traditional school bus services, when done correctly, which contributor and special needs expert Linda Bluth discusses this month. Student ridership verification and school bus location apps promote goodwill with parents. Increased public-private partnerships, like what school bus contractor Alltown Bus Service in Chicago is doing with Wilber Wright College, develop streamlined career pathways for commercial driver’s license holders.

Necessity is the mother of innovation. And student transporters and their operations have a lot of needs to fulfill, the most important being the services their students and parents rely on. Keep an open mind to the possibilities and strive to be a solution.

Editor’s Note: As reprinted in the October 2024 issue of School Transportation News.

Related: Rural Virginia Counties Move Needle on School Bus Driver Shortage
Related: What would solve the school bus driver shortage?
Related: Kentucky Students Release Rap Video in Response to School Bus Driver Shortage
Related: (Free Webinar) Addressing Driver (& Bus) Shortages: 3 Creative and Measurable Strategies that Really Work

The post Turning School Bus Driver Shortages Into Opportunities appeared first on School Transportation News.

As a software professional with over 30 years of experience in school transportation, I
have worked with hundreds of districts and witnessed both successful and failed technology implementations. This raises an important question. Why do some districts succeed while others fail? Is transportation technology inherently flawed, or do we lack the necessary skills to implement it effectively? As technology evolves, we must adapt alongside it. While some vendors might claim it’s easy, the reality is that there is no simple solution. Let’s explore the key factors to consider for successful technology implementation.

Do You Really Need to Change?
Throughout my career, I’ve seen many districts switch from one software system to another, underestimating the complexity and cost of such transitions. Changing software is an expensive and challenging task, especially for larger districts. Often it’s a multi-year project.

Think of software like cars. All cars have four wheels and an engine. The difference lies in the features. Similarly, most routing software can produce routes and give driver directions the rest are just added features.

More often than not, districts already have the necessary functionality in their existing software but don’t know how to fully utilize it. Before deciding to switch, evaluate your current software’s capabilities. Sometimes, a bit of training is all that’s needed. However, there are valid reasons for change, such as district growth. Ensure your reasons are sound and not a waste of tax dollars.

What Do You Want?
When working with districts, I always start by asking, “What do you expect the software to do?” The answers vary among superintendents, bus drivers, IT teams, routers, dispatchers, and transportation directors. Understanding everyone’s need is crucial.

For instance, tracking buses is a common request. Many companies offer this feature, but what specific information do you need? Do you need to see the vehicle speed, stop durations, telematics, or driver behavior? Clearly define your needs and ensure they align with the requirements of all stakeholders.

What Does Your RFP Say?
When consulting on Requests for Proposals (RFPs), I often find that districts struggle to write effective ones. Now that you know your district’s needs, crafting a comprehensive RFP is critical. Your RFP should clearly define what you need, including specific data and reports.

Vague statements like “Software must integrate with other district systems” are unhelpful and can lead to costly assumptions. Specify the exact integrations required and ensure all stakeholders review and proofread the RFP to meet everyone’s needs.

Do You Have District Buy-in?
Involving all stakeholders is essential for success. Take student tracking, for example. This initiative goes beyond transportation. Who will issue the cards? How will replacements be handled? Do you need card printers at each school, or will a central location suffice? Or should you outsource card production? Answering these questions and securing district support will help ensure the success of your initiative.

Do You Have the Right Personnel to Implement?
With the right software and hardware selected and all stakeholders involved, it’s time to implement. But your already busy staff now has an additional task. Many implementations fail due to a lack of time and resources. Ensure you have the right personnel in place, including a project manager to keep everyone on track. If you don’t have an experienced project manager, consider hiring one temporarily. A good project manager can alleviate the burden and hold both the district and the vendor accountable.

Do You Have the Right Personnel to Manage Your Technology?
Managing new technology often falls to someone internal, but they might not have the necessary background. Many implementations fail because the designated person lacks expertise in GIS systems, reporting, internet technologies, and other critical areas. Ensure you have qualified personnel to manage the system post-implementation.

Do You Have a Continuation Plan?
People come and go in any district. What’s your plan to ensure continuity if your expert leaves? Budget for ongoing training, even if it’s just refresher courses. Having funds set aside for training new hires and updating current staff on new technologies will save money in the long run.

Summary
When considering technology implementation, follow these recommendations for success:
• Evaluate Existing Solutions: Before deciding to change, thoroughly assess your current software; it may already meet your needs with some additional training.
• Understand Stakeholder Needs: Clearly define what you and other stakeholders want from the new technology.
• Write a Comprehensive RFP: Ensure your RFP is specific and meets the needs of all involved parties.
• Proofread: Carefully proofread the RFP and involve other stakeholders in the process.
• Secure District Buy-In: Ensure all relevant departments are on board and supportive.
• Plan for Implementation: Have the right people and sufficient time allocated for the implementation process.
• Hire a Project Manager: Consider hiring a project manager if you don’t have one in house.
• Develop a Continuation Plan: Budget for ongoing training to maintain system effectiveness.

Following these steps will lead to more successful technology implementations in your transportation department.

Editor’s Note: As reprinted in the September 2024 issue of School Transportation News.

Kerry Somerville has over 30 years of experience in developing transportation management and routing systems. He is currently CEO of Transportation Planning Solutions and can be contacted at kerry@ transportationplanningsolutions.com.

Related: Transportation Technology Super Users Share Benefits of Working with IT Departments
Related: Technology and Communication: Crucial for Bus Maintenance and Safety
Related: Transit Technologies Enters K-12 Software Market Through Acquisition of Bytecurve
Related: (STN Podcast E218) Onsite at STN EXPO Reno 2024: Coming Together for Safety, Technology & Clean Energy

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School is back in session, and students have returned to classes on foot, bicycles, in cars and school buses. That means safety challenges and risks are back, too. Motorists are rushing to drop off kids and get to work. Traffic and congestion cause stress, and that changes driver behavior around schools and school buses.

When you compare your first day of school to today’s environment, is there an improvement in performance, optimization and a reduction in stress? School buses have been rolling for a month or so in most parts of the country, and the topic of safety remains top of mind.

A recent report from the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) revealed that nearly 60 percent of parents expressed concerns about their children’s safety, specifically citing issues related to school bus safety, pedestrian crossings, and overall traffic management around schools.

Additionally, a national poll on children’s health published by the C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital found that 48 percent of parents said their children walk through an area consisting of passenger vehicles picking up or dropping off students, with 28 percent saying they think it is likely a child will get hurt near a car or bus drop-off area.

According to the most recent National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services one-day illegal passing survey, 66,322 motorists were observed by 98,065 participating school bus drivers in 35 states violating laws to keep students safe while loading and unloading. NASDPTS extrapolated that 45.2 million illegal passing violations could occur during a 180-day school year nationwide. That is an increase of over 6 percent based on last year’s data.

Interestingly, more illegal passing incidents were observed during the afternoon routes than morning routes. Most incidents occurred on the left side of the bus, but shockingly, we still see illegal passing occurring on the right side. These instances are especially dangerous because that is where students board and exit. Nearly 15,000 more oncoming motorists passed school buses than those following behind.

According to the 2022-2023 National School Bus Loading and Unloading Survey, 1,267 student fatalities have occurred over its 53-year history. Nearly three-quarters of these children were 9 years old or younger.

Last month, the Auto Club reminded drivers to slow down and stay alert in and around school zones as well as in other areas where children might be present. It noted that crashes are one of the leading causes of death for school-aged children. The afternoon hours are particularly dangerous. Nearly one-third of child pedestrian fatalities occur between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. That jibes with the NASDPTS survey results.

So, how do we improve safety on and around the school bus? I recommend starting with the parents as they have a vested interest in their child’s safety. The burden of school bus safety can’t fall solely on school transportation and the school bus driver.

Jeff Cassell from the School Bus Safety Company provided several recommendations to help prevent accidents around school buses. He emphasized minimizing crossovers whenever possible, educating students on safe crossing practices, informing parents about these procedures, ensuring school bus drivers enforce them, and considering an extended stop arm to better capture the attention of other motorists.

He also suggested specific morning and afternoon guidelines for students and parents. In the morning, students should wait at least 10 feet from the edge of the roadway, look at the driver after the bus comes to a stop, cross only when signaled by the driver, and walk directly across without running. In the afternoon, students should walk 10 feet away from the bus, move 10 feet ahead of the bus or crossing gate, look at the driver, and cross only when signaled. They should always check for traffic and wait if uncertain about moving vehicles. By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of crossing accidents.

I recommend highlighting in your calendars School Bus Safety Week on October 21-25. It’s a great time to bring awareness to the dangers that exist around schools and school buses. Remember to always keep your school bus drivers, students and parents informed about safe behaviors around the school bus. I wish you a safe and successful school year!

Related: What Do School Bus Drivers Want to Increase Safety?
Related: Get Convenience, Safety & Value with a Cord Reel Power Station
Related: (STN Podcast E228) Freedom From Risk: How Districts Can Protect Students in the School Bus Danger Zone
Related: Free Training Program to Prevent Danger Zone Child Fatalities

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The reason for new construction or remodeling of an existing school bus facility is often that school bus maintenance departments have outgrown facility designs that worked well 30 or more years ago.

School bus operators are discovering the need to adopt facilities to reflect changes in school bus design, technology and technician skills experienced over those years, possibly making the size and functional layout of older shops outdated. Also, increasing services to your own or other districts and the introduction of electrification and other alternative fuels may necessitate some sort of facility change or complete replacement.

Understanding the basics of school bus operation and repair facilities is essential for anyone in the school bus industry when approaching the decision to remodel or replace a school bus facility. From choosing the right location to designing a safe efficient layout and ensuring sufficient size to conduct operations and perform proper maintenance, every aspect plays a crucial role in the success of school bus operational safety and contributes to a sense of pride in the transportation team.

Today’s well-designed school bus facility doesn’t begin simply with design. It begins with understanding the district or company needs and a commitment to good planning by the entire transportation team guided by knowledgeable site and building design experts. Preferably a local architect firm that provides consulting, project management, design development, construction documents, and construction administration.

A facility in California will have different needs than a facility in Maine, so your school bus repair facility remodel or rebuild decision needs to be highly personalized to meet your local needs. That means taking into account a range of considerations, including community impact, climate, environmental assessments, overall property site space, office and training room size, technician (and driver) break area, shop layout, number and size of work bays, what type of maintenance and repair tasks to be performed, parts rooms, shop equipment, utility requirements, traffic flow, fueling site, parking, and vehicle types.

Safety should be a top priority when designing the facility. Working with heavy machinery and potentially hazardous materials requires proper safety measures, an example is designing the facility with fire suppression systems, proper ventilation, and adequate lighting to help mitigate safety risks.

Equipment selection, layout, utility requirements and finishes need to be considered early in the process. The earlier in the design process that all department needs are identified, the more likely they will be approved and the less they will cost.

School bus operation specialists, maintenance managers and technicians are some of the most important people on the design team and must be able to see the big picture. Visiting other facilities and talking to peers from other shops and fleets is encouraged. Managers also should keep staff members informed of the process and encourage any other concerned parties’ input whether it’s other transportation supervisors (dispatch, training, human resources), school administrators, town, city or county commissioners, board members and the public.

I cannot express enough the value of industry peer relationships when undertaking such a large project in your district or company. Leverage the goodwill in our industry.

Whenever I sought advice from attendees or vendors at school bus trade association meetings at the state, provincial or national levels, I was never disappointed by the input received and the willingness of fellow bus operators to share experiences. I encourage you to do the same. Visit a district or company that has completed a new transportation facility and see how the basics (listed on the previous page) have fit into their project.

Editor’s Note: As reprinted in the September 2024 issue of School Transportation News.

Robert Pudlewski is STN’s technical editor and a member of the National School Transportation Association Hall of Fame in recognition of his 40-plus year career as a school bus maintenance, technology and procurement expert.

Related: Does your school bus garage utilize the latest technology?
Related: Transportation Staff Share How Technology Improves Operations
Related: Student Transportation Company Adopts School Bus Optimization Technology to Improve Operations and Safety
Related: Technology and Communication: Crucial for Bus Maintenance and Safety

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• Children left on school bus for hours after falling asleep
• 8-year-old hospitalized after being hit by school bus
• Superintendent to community: Find me 50 bus drivers by Labor Day

The above headlines were but three out of dozens more like them published during school startup. The first month or two (and sometimes three) of a new school year is challenging for even the best run school district. Inevitably something will not go according to plan. Because this industry serves children, any shortcoming or issue must be relatively minor.

Teachers and principals can hide opening day miscalculations or worse within classroom walls, for a while at least. But from day one, transportation failures are heavily publicized by the local and sometimes national media.

A year ago, Jefferson County Public Schools in Louisville, Kentucky, was raked over hot coals for the failure of its new AI-enabled routing software that resulted in late or absent school buses. Jefferson County administrators eventually closed school for a week to figure out the mess.

This school year, the school district responded as hundreds of other school districts have when faced with similar problems. They cut non-essential transportation to magnet schools and some general education routes. But transportation remains essential to many of the students and parents affected. More backlash erupted. The situation has improved, to the point that Jefferson County is considering bringing back some routes. A new homegrown routing system has helped. But the damage to the community relationship was already done. A group of student riders recently created a rap song and video, “Where My Bus At?”

Beyond last year’s AI routing debacle, the major culprit in the case of Jefferson County and at school districts nationwide is the ongoing shortage of school bus drivers. I have read and heard far too many stories on how staffing levels impact school bus arrival times. Some parents are empathetic, but others are not. They expect the service to be reliable and on time. They entrust their children to the school bus and its operator. They understandably are perplexed if not irate when the bus is late, doesn’t show up, students are dropped off at the wrong stop, are left on board for hours at the conclusion of routes, especially when there is little or no communication from the school district.

A recent survey conducted by Zum indicates that 53 percent of 1,500 parents polled online in June said their children have missed the school bus because they didn’t know when it was arriving. Another 43 percent said their children have been negatively impacted by school transportation issues. Meanwhile, a HopSkipDrive survey of nearly 400 student transporters last spring found that over 28 percent said driver shortages were severely constraining their operations. Nearly 62 percent said operations were “somewhat constrained.”

Improved school bus driver recruitment and retention is trending. COVID-19, while still a thing, is not as severe as it once was considered. People are coming back to work. Then what’s the problem? Is it that student transporters, as they are programmed to do, are simply doing what they must to keep the service rolling using whatever resources they have at their disposal?

The impact on not only service but safety comes into question. That’s where training, training and more training is at play. Especially at school startup, when school buses on the nation’s roadways are in full force alongside all other vehicles, and the media focus is the tight. Student stops are the least safe place for a school bus rider. That’s why they are called the “Danger Zone.”

This month, we continue to explore the fragility of student loading and unloading. Technology is playing an increasing role in helping school bus drivers detect students at stops as well as bringing more visibility to school buses, as we read in this month’s edition. But these solutions are supplements. They don’t and can’t replace training.

The school bus safety record shows what is possible when the right people get behind the wheel and remain there, meeting the second-to-none school bus construction standards. Increased pay is needed but so too are more tools to assist drivers and monitors with increasing student behavior problems on board. Last month’s STN web poll indicates readers are seeing increased ridership this school year, a good thing. But staffing levels must be commensurate and at the top of mind for all school transportation industry professionals not simply those at school districts and bus companies.

Editor’s Note: As reprinted in the September 2024 issue of School Transportation News.

Related: NTSB Addresses Back to School Safety in Recent Webinar
Related: School Bus Driver Creates Children’s Book to Promote School Bus Safety
Related: What Do School Bus Drivers Want to Increase Safety?
Related: A New Safety Paradigm

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Even the smallest school transportation department that maintains its own vehicles as well as school district or company-owned equipment in-house must go through a considerable amount of operating cost to inventory the parts, lubricants and supplies necessary to keep the fleet in the safest operating condition.

In fact, a survey conducted by STN magazine a few years ago showed that annual expenditures for school bus fleet parts and shop supplies represent approximately half of the total vehicle maintenance costs for the average fleet. To ensure that school bus technicians always have the items they need on hand and that maintenance budgets are well spent, it’s critical to monitor and re-stock inventory of parts and supplies mindfully
by analyzing maintenance parts and supplies inventory best practices.

By effectively managing inventory, transportation leaders can have the right products in the right quantity on hand and avoid products being out of stock and operating funds being tied up in excess stock. Inventory is cash on the shelf and should be kept at a level not to exceed 10 percent of the annual maintenance parts cost, ideally keeping parts fresh by turning over inventory 10 times a year.

Inventory management is an operational part of the school bus maintenance facility that aims to always have the right product in the right quantity and at the right time. When done effectively, fleet operators reduce the costs of carrying excess inventory while maximizing vehicle uptime. Good inventory management can help track inventory in real time to streamline this process. By analyzing how the organization has historically used maintenance-related items, leaders can identify patterns that can update purchasing strategies moving forward. For instance, if you observe that your fleet installs batteries at an increased rate during the winter, get ahead of that need by stocking replacement batteries when the weather is still warm. Purchasing parts in anticipation of future needs is proactive maintenance inventory management.

Reliably having a well-stocked supply of parts, tires, oil and lubes on hand is an essential part of performing in-house maintenance. By following best practices and keeping a close eye on specific systems of measurement, fleets can optimize how their inventories are managed and restocked.

If you are looking to enhance the way your district/company manages inventory, try the following:

• Leverage your vehicle maintenance recording system to add inventory management software to track stock levels automatically and to record part information for improved organization. Develop standardized storage procedures and reinforce those methods when training personnel.
• Periodically review your inventory levels to ensure maintenance needs are being met to reduce downtime.
• Review historical part utilization to stock high-demand parts and minimize overspending on rarely needed parts.
• Log or record parts under warranty. This can be accomplished with paper documents, spreadsheets or inventory management software.
• Whenever a part fails, fleet personnel can check their records to see if that part has an active warranty or not. Of course, this approach only works if warranty details are accurate and up to date, so whether you’re working with an inventory log or specialized software, make sure to audit your records on occasion to ensure data quality.
• Use the FIFO approach (first in, first out). Parts and supplies should be used for repairs in the same chronological order as they were purchased or created. This is especially important for batteries, tires and lubes. The best way to apply FIFO in a parts and supply storeroom is to add new items from the back so the older products are at the front.
• Identify low-turn stock. If you have stock that hasn’t been used at all in the last six to 12 months, it’s probably time to stop stocking that item. You might also consider different strategies for getting rid of that stock like a special discount or a dealer/distributor “buy-back” promotion since excess stock wastes both your space and money.
• Establish relationships with preferred part vendors that offer inventory obsolescence buy-back/credit programs.
• Reliably having a well-stocked supply of parts, tires, oil and lubes on hand is an essential part of performing in-house maintenance.
• Know the amount of inventory for all items you have at a given time. If you have a large fleet and a lot of inventory, you might need one person who is responsible for it. Smaller fleets can designate a shop person responsible for ordering parts and supplies, processing all purchase orders, receiving deliveries, and making sure that everything coming in matches what was ordered.

Although the supply chain impact of COVID-19 are lessening, the most recent order backlog on new school buses equipment has created a potential need for school buses operating at districts/companies to extend replacement cycles. As a result, maintenance and inventory cost has been impacted by the decision to hang on and wait for things to improve.

In addition to those challenges, we can only assume what the impact that the many zero emission mandates on the horizon will have on the fleet replacement program that districts/companies have in place, especially those based on cost models using diesel or propane-powered school bus prices and not supported by cost offset grant funds. All this may result in school bus operators making decisions to further extend the life of school bus equipment, making inventory and parts management a higher priority than ever before.

The key issue relative to improving school bus parts inventory management is that district/company management directs the effort to manage cost by setting achievable goals via planning, organizing and formulating realistic budgets to meet fleet requirements.

Editor’s Note: As reprinted in the August 2024 issue of School Transportation News.

Robert Pudlewski is STN’s technical editor and a member of the National School Transportation Association Hall of Fame in recognition of his 40-plus year career as a school bus maintenance, technology and procurement expert.

Related: Simplifying School Bus Operation Management
Related: 7 Ways the Right Transportation Management Technology Can Increase Student Safety
Related: Technology and Communication: Crucial for Bus Maintenance and Safety
Related: (STN Podcast E222) Tools to Get the Job Done: Georgia Garage Star Talks Maintenance Evolution

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Transportation directors deal with a lot as leaders in our industry. Depending on the size and makeup of the school districts they operate, they encounter complex operational challenges, difficult decisions, managing teams, and stress, too. It’s all about people in our industry.

“Student success, teamwork, culture, communication are all words I think about every day when I come to work,” said Jennifer Vobis, executive director of transportation at Clark County School District in Nevada. “You must be able to think on your feet and wear multiple hats as a transportation director. School transportation is an interdependent system that impacts the entire district. Decisions we make in transportation will directly affect other departments in the district.”

The Transportation Director Summit at STN EXPO in Reno last month was the site of insightful conversations and interactions. Over 170 transportation directors and vendor partner representatives discussed various topics impacting operations, including safety and security, green energy, driver performance, and talent recruitment and retention.

I led the day-one group discussion by sharing the results of a survey of 112 transportation directors and industry leaders that was required for their participation.

“What current challenges are you trying to solve with technology and services?” The top five answers: Improve driver safety and performance; driver retention; operational efficiency; better parent communications; and student behavior (bullying and assault).

Then, I asked the 24 tables of industry stakeholders to address and unpack this: “Share your biggest challenge for the next school year.”

“One of my biggest challenges is around staffing. Our operation in Philadelphia is a mixed district fleet and contracted services fleet,” shared Teresa Fleming, deputy chief operations officer at The School District of Philadelphia. “There is always a possibility that our school bus contractors might over allocate their driver capacity. This can impact the services we offer to our students. Our in-house operations have been successful to help mitigate our driver shortages with robust onboarding, retention, paid training programs and full-time employment opportunities.”

On day two of the TD Summit, executive leadership and keynote speaker Christine Cashen shared with the audience the most effective ways to communicate with their teams. As our Client Services and Digital Media Coordinator Claudia Newton reported on site, Cashen acknowledged that every person has different upbringings, experiences and styles of handling conflict. Using her formula of “Situation + Response = Outcome,” she advised focusing on the response because that’s where the power is. “Say what you mean, mean what you say, and don’t be mean when you say it,” she quipped.

She revealed there are four major types of people: Laid-back, people-pleasing “Who people;” flexible, creative “Why people;” focused, no-nonsense “What people;” and detail-oriented, conscientious “How people.” You need all types of people for a team, Cashen said.

A positive workplace culture is crucial for a good trickle-down effect so that transportation staff and school bus drivers are ready to be the first school representative many students see each day. “You want to avoid mood poisoning,” Cashen said, referring to employees with negative attitudes. “Some hard conversations need to be had.”

For effective, non-emotional communication with a team member about a recurring problem or attitude, she advised stating how you feel and why. Use “I” language, closing with an appreciation and request for the other party, and including a consequence, if necessary.

If the conversation becomes argumentative, telling the person, “You might be right,” gets them to view your side favorably or at least placates them enough to avoid a negative confrontation. Likewise, saying “I see things differently” is a more collaborative phrase than “I disagree.”

“Conflict doesn’t always have to be negative,” Cashen summed up. “It can also be a positive [and] bring everyone together, and make them feel heard.”

After each TD Summit concludes, I always get feedback from attendees. “The Transportation Director Summit always provides valuable interaction with peers regardless of the size of the district I am speaking with,” shared Vobis. “I love brainstorming at the interactive tables about our challenges. My goal is to gain knowledge, develop innovative ideas and solutions that I can implement. I always walk away with great ways to improve the Clark County transportation department.”

Our transportation directors are working hard for everyone to be successful. Let’s be sure to give them grace and a pat on the back for the inspiration they provide every day. Bravo!

Editor’s Note: As reprinted in the August 2024 issue of School Transportation News.

Related: Gallery: Unique Classes, TD Summit on Day 2 of STN EXPO Reno
Related: STN EXPO Reno Keynote Speaker Uncovers How to Flip the Script and Stay Inspired
Related: Communication ‘Magic Words,’ Teamwork Tips Shared at Transportation Director Summit
Related: STN EXPO Reno Keynote Speaker Brings Message of Positivity

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Last month, an STN EXPO Reno panel consisting of school bus OEMs and the industry’s largest engine manufacturer discussed the emissions path that is set before the industry. Most notably, what will the impact be of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s greenhouse gases Phase 3 rule that goes into effect with model-year 2027?

Understandably, the company representatives on stage from Blue Bird, Cummins, GreenPower, IC Bus, and Thomas Built Buses all refrained from predicting the future. Too much remains to be seen in a presidential election year. Adding to that uncertainty, the U.S. Supreme Court overruled the so-called Chevron deference, which allowed Congress to rely on federal agencies like the EPA to interpret any vagueness of laws. For example, the Clean Air Act, which EPA bases its emissions regulations on.

Two days before the panel, former President Donald Trump survived an assassin’s bullet at a campaign event in Butler, Pennsylvania. Three days after the panel and the day after EXPO concluded, Trump formally accepted his presidential nomination at the Republican National Convention. Three days after that, President Joe Biden announced he was ending his run for a second term and was throwing his support behind Vice President Kamala Harris.

Most prominent Democrats have since followed suit. The drama is reminiscent of the summer of 1968, after President Lyndon B. Johnson in March of that year announced he wouldn’t run for re-election. Biden made his announcement 106 days before Nov. 5 and after primary voters already selected him as the party nominee.

Democrat hopeful Robert F. Kennedy was assassinated at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles in June 1968. College campuses nationwide were protesting the Vietnam War. The Democratic National Convention was in turmoil, though there doesn’t appear there will be nearly the same antagonism, vitriol and violence in Chicago this time around—hopefully.

What does this all mean for student transportation, you ask?

With Harris appearing to be headed for a showdown with Trump this fall, the near future of electric school buses (ESBs) would seem to be at stake. In accepting the GOP nomination, Trump said he would end the electric mandate his first day in office. There is no mandate, but EPA’s GHG Phase 3 rule certainly incentivizes electric vehicles while disincentivizing if not regulating internal combustion engines out of existence as the intent.

Trump wants to “Drill, baby, drill” the U.S. out of a dependence on foreign oil and he is anti-regulation. Diesel advocates point out that emissions have improved by over 90 percent since 2010, and Phase 3 will drive further reductions.

Meanwhile, the five-year, $5 billion Clean School Bus Program alone has awarded over 98 percent of funds for ESBs, with the remainder for propane school buses. Since hitting a high of over 3,200 units manufactured in 2019, propane output has fallen while electric school bus production has risen. With Cummins no longer pursuing a propane engine leaving Blue Bird with its ROUSH CleanTech propane autogas system as the sole industry provider of this option could propane eventually follow the path of its natural gas cousin, CNG, which has seen its annual production dwindle to under 200 units annually?

California, where Harris calls home, does not fund the purchase of propane school buses via state grants because propane is not a zero-emissions fuel, though the propane industry claims it beats electric in GHG emissions. Propane remains eligible under the state’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard with school districts required to report quantities used each year, but California wants all internal combustion engines to go away. Nine states adopted the state’s Heavy-Duty Engine and Vehicle Omnibus Regulation that covers school bus emissions.

Yet U.S. natural gas deposits are among the richest in the world. Trump supports fracking, which is crucial for natural gas extraction. Harris was once a staunch opponent of fracking. Biden, on the other hand, backed away from a campaign promise to ban the practice on federal land, and Harris got in lockstep. Would she be emboldened by a November victory to end the practice?

One thing you can bet on, electric school bus proponents would be ecstatic with a Harris presidential victory. She introduced the Clean School Bus Act in the Senate while preparing to run against Biden and others for the 2020 Democrat presidential nomination. HB2906 was a drop in the bucket precursor to the Clean School Bus Program. If she does get the Democrat nomination and goes on to defeat Trump this fall, could the industry see more federal electric bus funding after all? And what might that do for already extremely high ESB prices? Too many questions and no answers… yet.

Editor’s Note: As reprinted in the August 2024 issue of School Transportation News.

Related: Low-income Areas Need Electric School Buses the Most, WRI Analysis Indicates
Related: Updated: Rising Insurance? Additional Balancing Act Needed Amid Electric School Bus Push
Related: School Districts Replace Diesel Buses with Propane, Electric
Related: Training School Bus Technicians for an Electric Fleet

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