Dawnett Wright brings more than three decades of experience in pupil transportation to her new role as Region 5 Director on the Board of Directors for the NAPT. Wright also serves as director of transportation for Peninsula School District in Washington State and is president of the Washington Association for Pupil Transportation.
Please provide an overview of your career in pupil transportation, from your entry into the industry to your current role.
I began my career in student transportation more than 30 years ago, starting as a school bus driver in the Fairfield school system in California. Over the years, I have worked in approximately 13 school districts. While that may sound like a lot, it reflects a career shaped by growth opportunities and a willingness to serve where I was needed.
I spent the first 20 years of my career in California, where I served on the CASTO State Board and was president of Chapter 12. During that time, I was also an authorized school bus trainer. Those experiences helped shape my leadership approach and reinforced the importance of training, safety, and consistency across operations.
About 14 years ago, I moved to Washington State, where I continue to work in pupil transportation today. I became involved with the Washington Association for Pupil Transportation, currently serve as its president, and remain active as a driver trainer. Throughout my career, my focus has always been on sharing best practices, supporting colleagues, and doing everything possible to keep students safe.
What motivated you to pursue a leadership position on the NAPT Board of Directors?
Service has always been important to me. Whether at the state or national level, I believe strongly in giving back to the transportation community and ensuring that professionals across the industry have access to accurate, up-to-date information.
My involvement with NAPT felt like a natural extension of the work I have done with state associations. It allows me to help elevate the conversation nationally and to ensure that transportation professionals have a voice. This past year also reinforced how important it is to focus on what truly matters. Facing significant personal challenges brought clarity to my priorities and strengthened my commitment to making a meaningful impact within this profession and this organization.
From your perspective as a new board member, what are the most significant needs of NAPT’s membership as the association enters 2026?
One of the most pressing needs across the industry is staffing, particularly driver shortages. Beyond that, members want to be heard. They want to know that someone is listening to their concerns and is willing to bring those challenges to the board for discussion and action.
Representation matters. Ensuring that members feel supported, understood, and accurately represented at the national level is critically important, and that is something I take very seriously in my role.
What does NAPT provide that cannot be found elsewhere?
NAPT supports professional growth in a way that few organizations can match. The networking opportunities alone, whether through conferences, webinars, or industry events, are incredibly valuable. Those connections provide access to experienced professionals who can offer insight, guidance, and solutions to real-world challenges.
The professional development opportunities NAPT offers are equally important. From training programs to educational resources and publications, the association provides a comprehensive package that supports continuous learning. Taken together, the networking, professional development, and shared knowledge make NAPT an invaluable resource for anyone working in pupil transportation.

