CINCINNATI — Eleven 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:

•    Boone Grove, Indiana    
•    Montrose, Colorado
•    Bozeman, Montana    
•    Naperville, Illinois
•    Chattaroy, Washington    
•    Newberg, Oregon
•    Cincinnati, Ohio    
•    New Castle, Pennsylvania
•    Indian River, New York    
•    Providence, Rhode Island
•    Linden, Michigan

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.

“Our maintenance teams recognize the impact of what they do every day,” said Todd Hawkins, First Student senior vice president of maintenance. “Their hard work and discipline result in safe and reliable school buses, which provide students with the best start and finish to the school day.”

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.