School transportation is part of the “behind-the-scenes” network of services that help students get through their school day. Even further behind the scenes is the school bus shop staff. The technicians who keep the buses in working order have even less contact with students and parents than drivers and directors do; but without them, the wheels on the bus wouldn’t go ‘round and ‘round!

Every year, SCHOOL BUS FLEET recognizes maintenance staff in our Top Shops feature. Last year, we spotlighted operations from all corners of the U.S., including the Midwest, Northeast, South, West Coast, and even the extreme driving environs of eastern Alaska, near the Yukon.

We are always fascinated to hear directly from maintenance staff about the lengths they go to make sure school buses are safe and well taken care of. Many of the mechanics we’ve heard about make a lifelong career out of working on school buses, with admirable results, including stellar inspection ratings, high shop morale and school buses their communities can be proud of.

Do you know of a school bus shop that goes above and beyond in maintenance? We’re looking for operations that excel in safety, efficiency and innovation.

To nominate a shop in the U.S. or Canada, send an e-mail to info@schoolbusfleet.com, and include contact information for the transportation director or maintenance supervisor, and details on why you think the shop should be recognized. Or to share an interesting maintenance story, make a comment in the feedback section.

The deadline is this Thursday, Jan. 29. Looking forward to hearing about the great shops out there!

--Claire