Each year, the National Association for Pupil Transportation (NAPT) shines a spotlight on the professionals who set the standard for excellence in student transportation. As someone who has spent years covering this industry, I’m always inspired by the stories behind these awards — the innovation, leadership, and unwavering dedication to serving students and communities. The 2025 NAPT Annual Award Winners represent the very best of what our industry has to offer, and it’s an honor to share their achievements with the readers of School BUSRide Magazine.
Continuing Education Award
Michelle Summers, CSPT
Assistant Director of Transportation, Friendswood ISD (TX)
Award Sponsored by Thomas Built Buses
This year’s Continuing Education Award honors Michelle Summers, whose passion for professional growth has transformed learning opportunities within her district and inspired colleagues nationwide. Her leadership in championing training and development ensures transportation teams are better prepared to serve students safely and effectively.
Michelle’s nomination highlighted her unwavering commitment to professional growth, noting, “Continuing education has become a personal mission. I completed my NAPT Certified Supervisor of Pupil Transportation (CSPT) certification entirely on my own. That process lit a fire within me—not just to improve myself, but to elevate those around me. It inspired me to pursue my state official certification, and now I am actively working toward the NAPT Director Certification.
I’ve faced many challenges in my life, but each one has made me more determined to grow and serve. I strive to use what I’ve learned to make a meaningful impact on my team, our students, and the broader community. I believe that by investing in ourselves through continuing education, we create a ripple effect—empowering others, strengthening our industry, and most importantly, ensuring safer, more supportive environments for the students we serve.”
School Bus Driver Training & Safety Award
Sherri Zulick
Training Coordinator, Training Coordinator at Gorham School District (ME)
Award Sponsored by IC Bus
With a career defined by dedication and innovation, Sherri Zulick has raised the bar for driver training and safety standards in Maine and beyond. Her hands-on approach and commitment to continuous improvement have strengthened her district’s programs and set an example for transportation departments across the country.
Those who work alongside Sherri say, “Sherri consistently demonstrates an unwavering commitment to student safety and professional development. She is not only a skilled and safety-minded driver, but also a certified ALICE trainer, bringing critical knowledge to school transportation teams in high-pressure situations. Sherri’s training sessions are never static; she constantly seeks innovative and engaging ways to deliver content that resonates with both new and seasoned staff. Her methods are dynamic, practical, and tailored to ensure every trainee leaves better prepared.”
Special Needs Transportation Award
Katherine Michael, CSPT, CPTS
Special Needs Route Supervisor at Fayette County Schools (GA)
Award Sponsored by Q’STRAINT
Katherine Michael is celebrated for her extraordinary dedication to providing safe, reliable, and compassionate transportation for students with special needs. Through her work, she has built systems of care and connection that ensure every student receives the support they need to succeed.
As one nominator wrote, “Mrs. Michael demonstrates unwavering commitment to the safety and well being of our students with special needs, and leverages her extensive knowledge and training, gained in part through NAPT’s professional development series, to implement and oversee a transportation program that truly exceeds expectations. Katherine consistently personalizes transportation to meet IEP specific needs to ensure transportation decisions fully reflect students’ needs. Drivers, monitors, administrators, and parents describe her as decisive yet compassionate and feel she builds relationships grounded in trust and respect. Katherine’s tireless advocacy, innovative leadership, and devotion to students and staff make her an outstanding candidate for this honor.”
Heroism Award
Spartanburg District 6 (SC) bus driver Crystal Foster and bus monitor Joclyn Johnson; for their heroic actions in saving children from a house fire.
Award Sponsored by Blue Bird
On that fateful day, Crystal Foster and Joclyn Johnson were on their usual route when they noticed smoke billowing from the home of a student they were dropping off. Officials added that Foster and Johnson noticed the student’s older sister was standing in the garage “frightened and paralyzed with fear.”
Without hesitation, they stopped the bus and rushed to the scene, ensuring the safety of the children in their care before turning their attention to the burning home.
Their swift actions and effective communication enabled them to promptly notify the authorities, while also reassuring the frightened children and safely retrieving another young sibling who was still inside the house.
The NAPT Heroism Award celebrates individuals like Crystal and Joclyn, whose actions remind us of the profound impact that compassion and courage can have in our communities. Their story serves as an inspiring testament to the power of kindness and the importance of being prepared to act in moments of crisis.
The Distinguished Service Award is one of NAPT’s highest honors, recognizing individuals whose careers have been defined by leadership, innovation, and lasting contributions to the student transportation industry at the national and state levels. This year, we are proud to celebrate two remarkable recipients: Stephanie Walker and Denny Coughlin.
Stephanie Walker, CDPT, CSPT, CSNT, CPTS
Director of Transportation at Habersham County Schools (GA)
Stephanie Walker has committed her career to enhancing student transportation systems, advocating for safety initiatives, and nurturing future leaders. Her influence reaches far beyond her district, establishing best practices that support students and families nationwide. By effectively bridging her efforts between state and national associations, she has unified various stakeholders to achieve common goals in student transportation.
Stephanie’s nomination highlighted her collaborative and empowering leadership style, creating an environment where team members feel appreciated and encouraged to share their best ideas. Her passion for mentoring has motivated a new generation of educators and administrators, equipping them with the skills and confidence to lead with empathy and vision. Her work with both state and national associations has amplified her impact, fostering a network of leaders committed to advancing safe student transportation.
Denny Coughlin
Owner at School Bus Training Company
Denny Coughlin, a longtime advocate and trusted leader, is recognized for his unwavering commitment to excellence and his decades of service to the student transportation community. Through his work, Denny has elevated industry standards and empowered transportation professionals across the country to continually improve.
Denny’s nomination highlighted how he consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of the challenges faced by transportation professionals and has worked tirelessly to provide solutions that are both practical and forward-thinking. His workshops and seminars are renowned for their interactive and engaging nature, allowing attendees to leave with actionable insights and renewed motivation.
Together, Stephanie and Denny exemplify the values that define NAPT and serve as inspiring role models for professionals at every stage of their careers.
Honoring Industry Leadership
NAPT CEO & Executive Director Molly McGee Hewitt reflected on the importance of celebrating these outstanding professionals and the inspiration they bring to the entire industry:
“Each year, our awards program reminds us of the incredible talent, passion, and innovation driving our industry. By honoring these exceptional leaders, we not only celebrate their achievements but also inspire all of us to reach higher and do better for the students and families we serve. Recognizing our award winners highlights the best of who we are as an association and strengthens our collective vision for the future of student transportation.”
The Power of Volunteer Leadership
NAPT President Teena Mitchell praised the record-breaking number of nominations this year and applauded the dedication of the Awards Committee:
“This year, we were thrilled to receive an overwhelming number of nominations, which speaks volumes about the incredible talent and dedication across our industry. I am so impressed by the thoughtful work of our Awards Committee in reviewing each submission and selecting this year’s recipients. Their commitment is a perfect example of the power of volunteer leadership within NAPT — when passionate professionals come together, we elevate our entire association and the student transportation industry as a whole.”
Celebrating the Awards Process
Awards Committee Chair Athena Bartz reflected on the collaborative and rewarding process of reviewing nominations with an engaged, passionate committee:
“Serving as chair of the NAPT Awards Committee is truly one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had. The nominations we receive reflect the dedication and heart of our industry, and working alongside such an engaged committee to review and celebrate these outstanding professionals is both humbling and energizing. It’s an honor to shine a spotlight on those who make a real difference in student transportation every day.”
Celebrating the Impact
The NAPT Annual Awards program serves as a powerful reminder of the critical role student transportation professionals play in shaping educational experience. By recognizing outstanding individuals like Michelle, Sherri, Katherine, Crystal, Joclyn, Denny, and Stephanie, NAPT not only honors their accomplishments but also highlights the innovation, passion, and leadership driving the industry forward.
Award recipients will be honored at NAPT ACTS this October 31 – November 4, 2025 in Grand Rapids, MI. The Annual Awards presentation is scheduled as part of the larger conference program for Saturday, November 1st at 3:45 p.m.