Much work is being done to promote the benefits of yellow school buses since U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood approved the establishment of a public education campaign. Among the efforts is a partnership between NHTSA, the U.S. Department of Education, the American School Bus Council and NAPT to work on developing educational materials.

Efficiency in a school transportation operation can include vehicle fuel economy and productivity of technicians. But if we really want to talk efficiency, the discussion must focus on routing — specifically, the policies that shape school bus routes and the processes put in place to evaluate those routes.

The Krapf Bus Companies CEO has been a key figure in state and national associations while growing his family’s business. He recently secured a groundbreaking contract to privatize a school district operation in Virginia.

The season’s weather can create dangerous driving conditions for employees and slippery bus steps for students, but products are available to help eliminate these hazards. Manufacturers of automatic tire chains, a traction sander and a step heater discuss their features, safety benefits and installation options.

The association reveals that the Transportation Security Administration has completed its pupil transportation security assessment. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s new initiative to improve large bus and truck safety is discussed. Attendees also celebrate two industry veterans who are retiring.

Physical and occupational therapists are a great asset to an operation. Help them to see the critical role they play in assisting with the transport of special-needs students by soliciting their expertise on body mechanics, disabilities and mobility devices. Ensure that they participate in evacuation training and drills.

After instituting a defensive driving focus in its training program, one district decreased reportable accidents by 33 percent.

You’re dedicated to the safe transportation of students, first and foremost. But your dedication also continues to spill over to our magazine.

Together, the full-court press on DOT bore fruit, and pupil transportation is now going to get some overdue attention.

Many parents either do not have the time to bring their children to school or they do not have the option. My parents were never able to bring me to school because they did not want to.

What else can be done to protect students from stop-arm runners? There’s one approach that, despite its long record of effectiveness, is only required in one state.

Manufacturers of fire suppression systems for school buses provide product details and discuss the benefits of installation.

From loading procedures to proper footwear to student discipline, pupil transportation professionals share their tips for reducing risks on and off the bus.

A veteran transportation director discusses the importance of reducing fuel use — and how to make it happen.

All who compete or otherwise get involved in these vital events are to be commended for their part in advancing pupil transportation.

Yellow school buses are one of DOT’s best success stories. This accomplishment needs to be told not so much for those in our industry but for the elected officials and citizens of cities across the country that are being forced to make difficult budgetary decisions.

School bus wash options range from easy-to-use manual to fully automatic systems and can save time and costs.

Student Transportation Inc. head Denis Gallagher discusses his “Education Stimulus Plan,” which he says gives districts an immediate cash benefit. He also talks about the company’s recent name change and its growth.

Sessions at this year’s event will provide the latest information on such topics as clean diesel and school bus advocacy projects. Activities will focus on bus security and the stranded-pupil problem. NSTA is also stepping up its efforts to recognize contestants in the School Bus Driver International Safety Competition. 

Recent developments with several of this year's largest school bus contractor companies.