Two Durham School Services employees have been honored by the Idaho Department of Education for their work in pupil transportation.

Peers Recognize Colleagues for Work in Transportation

Special Education Driver and Evaluator Thomas Geren was named the Special Needs Transportation Award winner, while Safety and Training Supervisor Terry Marinos was named School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year.

Both Thomas and Terry were surprised with their respective awards at the Idaho Student Transportation Training Conference in late July.

The awards are peer-nominated, and winners are selected by a committee based on how well each nominee has demonstrated excellence in areas such as leadership, safety, integrity, dedication, and more, as described in the nominations.

At the award presentation, Idaho Department of Education Student Transportation Specialist Dave Swanson shared that Thomas “has a love for Special Education Transportation (SPED) that is not commonly seen. He puts the safety and comfort of the students above all else. He has taken the time to research all the different types of harnesses, safety restraints, wheelchair securements, and other SPED equipment that is being used by the students and drivers in our district and has conducted training with district staff. This is a shining example of what a SPED driver should be.”

Swanson described Terry as “an excellent teacher who makes her classroom a very engaging and interactive experience. While overseeing the day-to-day operations and supporting her 7-person training team, this nominee also has an assigned morning route daily! She has a positive outlook and works to maintain a positive influence over new hires and current staff as well. Terry has been a key player in her location's training success rate and desires to do what is best for the students, drivers, and monitors.”

“Both Thomas and Terry are exceptional team members who holistically embody Durham’s and the school district’s core values. This is evidenced by their recognition from their peers and the Department of Education,” Durham School Services General Manager Sam Ray said. “Both awards are extremely well-deserved, and we are proud and grateful to be able to call them our own. Thomas and Terry are constantly raising the bar for themselves and encouraging their peers to strive for excellence in their respective roles and beyond. We want to congratulate Thomas and Terry wholeheartedly and thank them for their dedication and contributions to their students, peers, and community.”