An introduction gives trainers a chance to set the right tone for instruction. Although experienced trainers inevitably develop their own style of opening a class, there are typically several key messages to communicate at the onset of a course, including: • Trainer introductions. Not just “who I am,” but “why this topic is important to me” and “what my credentials are for teaching this course.” • Logistical concerns. At or near the beginning of class, you should provide information on location and use of fire exits, location of rest rooms, smoking access, emergency phone numbers, parking and cell phone policies, medical emergency protocols, etc. • Instructional materials. Trainers should distribute workbooks to each trainee, briefly explaining how workbooks are laid out and how they’ll be utilized. Trainees should bring something to write with to each session. • Clear the deck. During the opening, trainees should be allowed to express any questions or concerns before moving on to the course content. Allowing trainees to briefly introduce themselves can help to break the ice. When trainers, out of nervousness or rigid adherence to the clock, proceed to the main topic before all class concerns have been addressed, the concerns invariably emerge later and may become an unnecessary distraction. Source: "Special-Needs Transportation Training Curriculum," Pupil Transportation Safety Institute, www.ptsi.org.