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Wes Platt

Former Executive Editor

Wes Platt joined Bobit in 2021 as executive editor of School Bus Fleet Magazine and maintained the helm through 2024.

He writes and edits content about student transportation, school bus manufacturers and equipment, legislative issues, maintenance, fleet contracting, and school transportation technology - from classic yellow diesel buses to the latest EPA-funded electric, propane, and CNG vehicles.

Wes has moderated online webinars related to student transportation, hosts a video podcast called The Route on the SBF YouTube channel that covers bus-related news and issues, and enjoys attending events with the National Association for Pupil Transportation (NAPT), National School Transportation Association (NSTA), and National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services (NASDPTS).

Previously, Wes worked as a journalist for The St. Petersburg Times (now Tampa Bay Times) - he has no shortage of "Florida Man" stories. Be sure to ask about the armadillo hit man sometime. He also worked for North Carolina's Durham Herald-Sun, covering diverse beats ranging from crime and courts to K-12 education, including school transportation issues. He’s a Florida native transplanted to North Carolina, and a graduate of the University of South Florida (B.A. mass communications).

Articlesby Wes PlattApril 11, 2024

5 Questions with David Wright of Forest River Bus on Guiding Collins into the Future

David Wright, president of commercial vehciles for Forest River Bus, looks ahead to the future envisioned for Collins Bus after the bus manufacturer's acquisition in January.

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Articlesby Wes PlattApril 8, 2024

SBF Administrator of the Year: Transformative Leadership in Arizona School Transportation

Liz Thies spearheads modernization efforts as the transportation director for Mohave Valley Elementary School District. Her proactive approach, including securing grants for electric buses and implementing advanced technology, has revolutionized local student transportation. Thies fosters a positive work environment, boosting morale and setting a standard for districts nationwide.

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Newsby Wes PlattApril 3, 2024

Drive Innovation: Contribute Your Insights to the Annual Contractor Fleet Operations Survey

Your participation in our survey can make a significant impact on the pupil transportation industry. By sharing your insights, you'll help address critical challenges such as driver shortages and parts supply issues. Join us in driving positive change and advancing the efficiency of school transportation services.

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Newsby Wes PlattMarch 26, 2024

Pre-K Student Dies in Texas Bus Collision

The accident involving a bus loaded with children coming back from a zoo field trip also claimed the life of a Ph.D. student following the bus in a Dodge Charger.

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School Bus Fleet Blogby Wes PlattMarch 26, 2024

Trip Sheet: Is It Time for Daylight Saving Time to Clock Out?

How do you think the potential shift to permanent Daylight Saving Time or standard time would impact our daily lives and routines, especially considering the divided approach across various states?

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Newsby Wes PlattMarch 25, 2024

Bus Contractors Expect Exemption from New York City Congestion Pricing

School buses should not be subject to Metropolitan Transit Authority’s expected fee changes, a move welcomed by school transportation providers.

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Newsby Wes PlattMarch 19, 2024

NSTA Returns to Capitol Hill to Promote School Bus Safety

The National School Transportation Association convened on Capitol Hill for the 2024 Bus-ln, urging legislative action on illegal school bus passing. Advocates engaged in more than 85 meetings, pushing for support of HR 3998. Events included receptions and meetings with representatives, emphasizing student safety. The initiative underscores NSTA's commitment to addressing critical transportation issues.

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Newsby Wes PlattMarch 18, 2024

Zonar Aims for Efficiency with MyView’s Arrival in Canada

The MyView app, powered by ByteCurve, makes its debut in Canada, addressing critical concerns in school transportation. With features tailored to mitigate bus driver shortages and ensure student safety, the app prioritizes privacy compliance.

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Articlesby Wes PlattMarch 18, 2024

SBF Trailblazer 2024: Katelyn Saenz of San Antonio Independent School District

Saenz, 33, serves as director of operations for the Texas school district's transportation department.

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Articlesby Wes PlattMarch 13, 2024

STILL ROLLING: School Bus Maintenance Workers Get Improved Pay [2024 Survey Results]

School bus technicians on average saw a boost in their hourly pay, but their jobs often continue to include serving as backup drivers thanks to staffing shortages.

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