NAPT Executive Director and CEO
As I write this letter, I reflect on the unique rhythm of working within a school district. On one side, we’re focused on wrapping up the current school year, organizing summer school programs, planning end-of-year field trips, and addressing the usual transportation requirements. On the other side, we’re racing to develop budgets, assess staffing needs, and strategize for the 2025-2026 school year. To top it off, we have graduations, retirement celebrations, and a packed calendar to manage. This work is truly not for the faint-hearted!
A week ago, NAPT had the privilege of attending and supporting the National Congress on Student Transportation in Des Moines, Iowa. It was impressive to see so many of our member leaders so actively involved and participating. Their influence was evident in every committee and throughout the state delegations. This event was particularly significant as it marked the first Congress held after the Covid pandemic and the first in the last decade! Thanks to everyone who made it possible. We cannot wait to see the final document and for you to check out our videos on YouTube.
This May marks the inaugural year of our NAPT Under Construction campaign. Your member leaders, affiliate leaders, and professional staff have been diligently working to enhance, revise, and shape the next decade for our association. We expect this initiative to span two years, with a target completion date in June 2026. This period of development is both intense and exhilarating. We are focused on improving our internal operations, which include:
• Updating our Bylaws
• Establishing clear priorities
• Revamping our website
• Creating a mobile app
• Enhancing our database
• Overhauling our professional development and certification programs
We recognize the great history of NAPT and the contributions of our many leaders! We also understand that in our ever-changing world there is significant turnover in our industry, and we are living in a time of change!
It is easy when you are in a period of reflection and renewal to forget about the progress we have made and the successes we have enjoyed! After a hiatus due to the pandemic, we have held two annual conferences, now rebranded as ACTS23 and ACTS24. These events have introduced new features and enhanced programming. We have invigorated our public policy and legislation efforts with the help of our member committee and consultant Peter Mannella. I am seriously impressed with their work! We have added ten new state affiliates and held two conferences for state/province affiliates and their leadership. We’ve also reestablished our committee structure, alongside organizing a regional continuing education event, state workshops, leadership academies, and new workshops and publications! Kudos to our leaders and professional staff.
As you delve into this topic, remember to take a moment to breathe and reflect on your own successes! What you do matters every single day – remember, you are in charge of the yellow school bus – the iconic symbol of our industry and the safest mode of student transportation.
As always, you inspire me and encourage all NAPT and NAPT Foundation leadership to new heights and accomplishments! Stay tuned…more good news and activities are coming!
With Love, Respect, and a Knowing Nod (from my tornado shelter),
Molly