Durham School Services Earns Recognition, Pursues Sustainability Goals

Durham School Services (DSS) continues to demonstrate dedication to sustainable transportation while solidifying partnerships with school districts across the United States.

Sustainability Initiatives at Durham School Services

• DSS secured grants for adding 91 new electric school buses to its fleet through the EPA's Clean School Bus Program. Tim Wertner, CEO of Student Transportation Division in North America at parent company National Express, emphasized the importance of sustainability, stating: "Sustainability and electrification are at the top of our list."
• Team members underwent electric vehicle training to support the company's goal of achieving a zero-emissions fleet by 2035.
• DSS broke its record for reclaimed parts from retired vehicles, with 2,673 parts reclaimed in 2024.

Strengthening Partnerships: A Collaborative Approach

• DSS extended partnerships with Wichita Falls Independent School District (WFISD) and Aubrey Independent School District (ISD) in Texas. Scot Hafley, executive director of operations at WFISD, expressed satisfaction with the extended partnership, stating: "The work and cooperation between WFISD and Durham has been outstanding."
• DSS will operate additional routes for WFISD and provide Aubrey ISD with additional services, including a new tracking system for parents and guardians. Eric Hough, chief financial officer at Aubrey ISD, highlighted the partnership's focus on excellence and innovation. Brian Gibson, regional manager at DSS, noted the company's community involvement, stating: "Our team has been a staple of the Aubrey and Wichita Falls communities for many years."
• DSS has maintained a partnership with the School District of New Berlin, Wisc., for more than 20 years, providing transportation services and community involvement. Patrick Miller, chief financial and operations officer at the School District of New Berlin, emphasized the partnership's mutual trust and reliability.

Recognizing Excellence in Service at Durham School Services

• DSS team members Anne Albarran and Amanda DeMar were awarded the 2024 Oakland County Excellence in Transportation Award for their dedication to safe transportation. Jamie Stottlemyer, assistant superintendent of facilities and operations at West Bloomfield School District, commended the drivers for their dedication and passion: “Anne and Amanda embody the dedication and passion of our drivers here at West Bloomfield School District. With unwavering loyalty, Anne has been a steadfast presence since 1989, while Amanda brings her compassion and commitment to every ride since 2019. Both drivers, entrusted with special needs routes, embody the qualities of hard work, loyalty, kindness, and the willingness to always go above and beyond to help. These traits were recognized by their peers when they were nominated for the 2024 Oakland County Excellence in Transportation Award. We are immensely grateful to have Anne and Amanda as invaluable members of our team, ensuring the safety and well-being of our students every day.”
• The award, presented by the West Bloomfield School District, recognized their contributions to providing quality service to students. General Manager Jake Sutton acknowledged the drivers' achievements.