CINCINNATI — Ten First Student locations recently earned the Blue Seal of Excellence, which is given by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

The locations that earned the certification are:

•    Avon, New York
•    Miami Valley - Dayton, Ohio
•    Buffalo, New York
•    Northbrook, Illinois
•    Danbury, Connecticut
•    Rochester, New York
•    Kingston, New York
•    Stamford, Connecticut
•    Lawrence, Kansas
•    Weston, Wisconsin

The ASE, an independent nonprofit organization, was created in 1972 to improve the quality of vehicle repair and service by testing and certifying automotive professionals. The Blue Seal of Excellence is the highest certification level given by the organization, according to First Student.

“A strong fleet maintenance program is critical to a successful transportation operation,” said Todd Hawkins, First Student senior vice president of maintenance. “Our maintenance best practices and streamlined procedures are among the most stringent and innovative in the industry, helping to keep safe, rigorously maintained buses on the road without interruption.”

In order to become Blue Seal certified, at least 75% of technicians performing diagnosis and repairs at the location must be ASE certified. In addition, each area of service offered in the maintenance shop must be covered by at least one ASE-certified technician.