Julio Ospina (center) stands with other district team members, plus representatives from AMF-Bruns and the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Photo: AMF-Bruns of America
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Julio Ospina (center) stands with other Wylie ISD team members, plus representatives from AMF-Bruns and the Texas Department of Public Safety. As part of the award, a celebration with check presentation was held at the district's facility.
With 20 years of service, Ospina has been at Wylie ISD for two years. According to his nomination, Ospina has continually demonstrated a rare blend of professionalism, compassion, and leadership that makes him an exceptional and irreplaceable part of the community. He also serves as a safety trainer there, preparing new drivers, instilling in them the importance of vigilance, empathy, and responsibility.
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Ospina "is known for building strong connections with the students he serves, especially those with special needs," his nomination read. "He treats every child with patience, kindness, and dignity, and takes pride in being a familiar, trusted face in their daily routine."
Julio Ospina stands with Wylie ISD transportation director Jessie Murphy.
Photo: AMF-Bruns of America
One example of how he goes above and beyond happened last school year. After finishing his afternoon route, Ospina noticed a young child walking alone along the road wearing a harness. "Without hesitation, he pulled over to check on the child’s well-being. Trusting his instincts and training, Julio quickly realized something wasn’t right. After contacting authorities and staying with the child to ensure his safety, Julio learned that the student had actually been reported missing since that morning."
Thanks to Ospina's swift action, the child was safely transported into the care of law enforcement officers, and eventually back to his family.
The National School Bus Driver of the Year Award looks for special-needs bus drivers who have distinguished themselves through special accomplishments, meritorious and heroic acts, and innovations to improve their jobs. Each winner receives a $1,000 check.
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This is the eighth year for the award, recognizing drivers who go above and beyond to keep students safe every single day. Julio embodies that passion, commitment, and heart, AMF-Bruns wrote on Facebook.
What’s changing in special-needs transportation? This year, student transportation operators report a rising need, easing driver shortages, growing tech adoption, and evolving challenges. Sponsored by AMF Bruns of America.
Brianna Pauwee, a product application specialist at AMF Bruns of America and a wheelchair user, drops in to The Route to share practical securement and training insights, plus the story behind the new “Beyond Mobility” podcast. The Route is sponsored by IC Bus.
Brianna Pauwee, product application specialist at AMF Bruns of America and a wheelchair user shares practical securement and training insights, plus why she launched the “Beyond Mobility” podcast. The Route is sponsored by IC Bus.
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