Welcome to our January edition of School BUSRide! We are grateful that you are a subscriber and that you are taking the time to read our publication!
Each time I write “2026,” I pause for a moment. How did we reach 2026 so quickly? It feels like the new millennium was just yesterday. The old cliché , “time waits for no one,” holds just as much truth today as it did when it was first coined! Every day, our lives are scheduled, regulated and jam packed with our work, our families and our personal lives. A part of being a good leader is learning to manage your time and resources well.
In the realm of school transportation, our members are dedicated professionals who deeply care about both their industry and their roles. This passion is truly remarkable. Each day, our members are at the forefront, leading and serving with the utmost commitment to delivering exceptional services while prioritizing student safety above all else. I admire and cherish this passion, as I genuinely feel it within myself as well.
Passion, when lacking common sense, can lead to perilous situations! Often referred to as unbridled, it knows no boundaries. Strong leaders learn early in their careers that their passion must be matched with good decisions and leadership. Passion manifests uniquely for each individual; at times, it is seen in the long hours dedicated to work. You may find yourself giving until you have nothing left to offer!
Passion can manifest itself through our emotions. When you truly care about your work, your students, your district, and your employees, it’s easy for your feelings to become overwhelming. The combination of intense emotions and fatigue can lead to challenging situations.
From my observations, the most effective and well-prepared student transportation leaders harness their passion as a source of personal motivation. This passion enables them to lead effectively, perform meaningful work, and serve their districts well.
My enthusiasm for school transportation is evident in my approach to business and the way I utilize my time and resources. I feel energized by the opportunities and possibilities that arise. While working on initiatives like Love the Bus or Driven Together, I recognize the potential and feel thankful to be part of this industry. My passion shines through in my work, and I believe that for our members, it does as well!
So, thank you for your leadership, your passion and your dedication to our profession and our association and foundation! What you do every day makes a difference!
As you read this issue, I encourage you to spend time with the perspectives shared by our NAPT Executive Committee. Their insights reflect the same commitment you will see throughout our work in 2026 – listening to members, anticipating change, and investing in leadership, safety, and equity. Together, we are not only responding to the challenges facing pupil transportation but shaping what comes next.
With love, respect, and a knowing nod,
Molly