Michael P. Dallessandro

Recruiter

Michael P. Dallessandro retired in 2020 after a 30-year career as a public school transportation director with a significant focus on operations, labor relations, driver training, and school bus accident prevention. He has been a volunteer firefighter with the Grand Island Fire Co. for over 42 years. He regularly contributes to School Bus Fleet and is on the magazine's editorial advisory board. He currently works for Student Transportation of America in western New York state as a recruiter.

Articles•by Michael P. Dallessandro•September 28, 2015

10 Keys to Success in School Transportation Budgeting

Understanding different budgeting concepts, assessing district growth, and forecasting fuel use are some of the essential steps in developing and maintaining a sound budget.

Articles•by Michael P. Dallessandro•March 27, 2014

Is a shared transportation director good for your operation?

Many factors must be taken into account when considering whether to have one director oversee yellow bus service at two school districts, including the operations’ proximity to one another, the condition of the fleets and the relations among department employees. Patience and support for the shared director are essential to long-term success.

Articles•by Michael P. Dallessandro•June 25, 2013

Do I take the job?: 7 steps to making the right call

For transportation directors, moving to a new school district can be a great career path or a rocky road. Here are key factors to consider before taking the plunge.

Articles•by Michael P. Dallessandro•May 10, 2012

Progressive discipline: out of sync with busing

Progressive discipline in pupil transportation environments for anything other than general personnel issues such as tardiness, absenteeism or drivers room behavior, can be bad for kids.

Articles•by Michael P. Dallessandro•March 13, 2012

Upholding policy: It's not easy being the messenger

Managers often run into trouble and are accused of not being receptive to an individual's needs simply because we are trying to equitably uphold a school transportation policy or law.

Articles•by Michael P. Dallessandro•September 1, 2007

Emergency Response: The First 5 Minutes

In the minutes before police or emergency responders arrive, we must manage many types of emergencies in our schools and on the bus. Don't overlook these key points in your next training session on what to do during the first five minutes of a crisis.