It does not seem possible that two years ago, I was sitting in Salt Lake City waiting to accept the nomination of president-elect of the National Association for Pupil Transportation (NAPT). As I said that day, it is truly an honor to lead this family of professionals dedicated to the safe transportation of our precious cargo. I used the word “family” for many reasons.

I wish to take this opportunity in my first President’s Letter to thank my family at home for their support throughout my career. My wife, Sandy, and my sons, John and Jimmy, have actually become quite excited about school bus safety and industry-related topics! I would also take this opportunity to thank my office staff, school district and bus contractor for all of their support. Throughout my tenure, you will no doubt come to know and love these people as I do.

Earlier, I mentioned the “precious cargo” that we are responsible for. As we work through the next several years, it will be my honor to lead a group of equally special people that hold extreme importance to me. I consider the members of NAPT to be family, and over the next several years, I will work to make sure that our members always feel welcome and “at home.” Additionally, we will seek out new members and perhaps renew old acquaintances. In fact, the No. 1 goal of my administration will be expanding our family. This will be accomplished in many ways that I will be sharing with you continually.

Because we are a national organization, our sheer numbers dictate that it is difficult to be in all places at all times. It is like the example a friend of mine shared with me recently. During holiday times, it is not always possible for all of our families to be physically present at the holiday table, but they are always with us in spirit. At NAPT, not all members will always be physically present, but we will reach out to ensure that they always feel like part of the family.

Our No. 2 goal is to review and renew our strategic policy. The NAPT Board of Directors will meet this winter to further enhance our existing strategic plan in a way that will be monumental. There will be more to follow.

Goal No. 3 will be to continue to expand our Professional Development Series as well as discover new ways to accomplish professional growth for our membership.

Last, but certainly not least, is that the NAPT will continue our relationships with the National School Transportation Association and the National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services. These partnerships have been nurtured with great care, and we will continue to do so.

The next two years bring great hope and promise, not only for our association, but also for the yellow bus industry as we work diligently to resolve the many complex issues at hand. We will work together and accomplish great things.