New Mexico transporters discuss efficiency, management

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Pupil transportation professionals from across the state gathered here in mid-November to share ideas and stay abreast of issues facing the industry.

The 7th Annual New Mexico School Transportation Conference, held Nov. 14-16, drew school district administrators, transportation staff members, school bus contractors, Head Start employees and Bureau of Indian Affairs representatives.

State pupil transportation director Gilbert Perea conducted a general session addressing the need to streamline transportation operations to obtain the highest level of efficiency.

Mike Martin, executive director of the National Association for Pupil Transportation (NAPT), gave a keynote speech covering key challenges and changes being discussed at the national level.

Workshop topics included new administrator training, the NAPT Professional Development Series, passenger management and pupil transportation regulations.

The event also included a trade show, where numerous vendors displayed their latest offerings in school buses and related equipment.

The 8th Annual New Mexico School Transportation Conference will be held Nov. 13-15, 2009, in Albuquerque.