California driver training specialist Leann Kenley to retire

WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Transportation veteran Leann Kenley is set to retire next week from her role as a state bus driver training programs specialist.

Kenley will step down from her position at the California Department of Education's Office of School Transportation (OST) on Sept. 30. She has more than 23 years of experience in the transportation industry.

Antonio Perez, previously of San Dieguito Union High School District in Encinitas, has joined the OST to take on the role of bus driver instructor training program specialist.

Kenley joined the OST in 2005. She previously served as an instructor and as a driver at the Kern County Superintendent of Schools.

State pupil transportation director Anna Borges told SBF that Kenley has made significant contributions to the California pupil transportation community, particularly in the area of special-needs transportation. For example, she oversaw OST’s conference on that topic.

“Her wholehearted love is transporting students with disabilities,” Borges said.

After her retirement, Kenley will go through truck driving school and then begin a new career team driving across the country with her husband.