The State Affiliate Luncheon provided an exclusive space for state affiliate leaders to connect with the NAPT and Foundation Board members. This gathering focused on strengthening relationships, sharing resources, and discussing the future of the organization. NAPT representatives emphasized their commitment to being “member-driven,” which means listening to affiliates’ needs, offering relevant support, and fostering […]
The “Futurecasting: The Impact of AI” session explored the evolving role of artificial intelligence in student transportation. Panelists, who had already integrated technology into their districts, shared insights on how AI can optimize routes, enhance safety, and improve communication. For example, Jared Richmond, Director of Transportation from Carl Junction Schools (MO) , described using AI […]
The Trade Show brought together leaders in the student transportation industry and the organizations that support them. The revamped trade show offered a dynamic platform for learning, interaction, and growth in the ever-evolving landscape of student transportation and technology. The new format offered more time for attendees to visit with vendors, in two different settings […]
The “Washington, D.C. Federal Updates” session saw attendees receive insights from federal and national safety leaders on regulatory and legislative developments affecting pupil transportation. Peter Mannella, Public Policy and Communications Liaison for NAPT, moderated the discussion, highlighting recent advocacy efforts, including addressing driver shortages, enhancing safety measures, and combating illegal school bus passing. Bridgette Watson […]
Moderated by NAPT Executive Director and CEO Molly McGee-Hewitt, the “State of the Industry” session focused on the evolving role of student transportation in education and its commitment to safety, sustainability, and operational innovation. Curt Macysyn, Executive Director of NSTA opened by applauding the dedication of transportation professionals and discussing ongoing challenges, including illegal school […]
The Opening General Session of the NAPT ACTS celebrated the resilience and progress of the school transportation industry with a blend of recognition and inspiration. NAPT President Teena Mitchell, CDPT, CSNT, welcomed attendees, expressing excitement for the organization’s second post-pandemic gathering and highlighting new offerings, such as continuing education available through conference sessions. Mitchell introduced […]
PDS 304: Best Practices When Collecting, Analyzing and Using Data PDS 304 “Best Practices When Collecting, Analyzing, and Using Data” offered attendees an intensive four-hour session on effective data management and decision-making. The course, led by industry experts Robert Feinberg (Director of Transportation, Deer Creek School District (OK) and president-elect of the Oklahoma Association for […]
The 2024-2025 School Year has begun with great momentum! Thanks to the committed efforts of student transportation experts nationwide fleets have been maintained and updated, drivers have been recruited, hired, and trained, routing has been completed, and students are safely being transported to and from school daily. To an external observer, this may seem like […]
School BUSRide spoke with Lauren Wallace, interim director, garage operations, in the School District of Philadelphia’s Office of Transportation. She spoke about her recent completion of leadership training, as well as the ways in which being an NAPT member has helped her to develop professionally. Please introduce yourself and tell us about your district I […]
By Banning K. Lary, PhD An often-unrecognized problem in school bus maintenance shops is falls from slippery tires or flimsy ladders. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (2020) there were 22,710 ladder injuries in all occupational groups, led by the installation, maintenance and repair occupations where in 5,790 injuries the primary source […]