Bus driver honored for service to special-needs students

Ford Thompson of First Student receives the 2012 Charlie Parnell Memorial Award from Minnetonka (Minn.) Public Schools. The award recognizes a school professional who goes above and beyond to touch the lives of these students.

Staff Writer・Editorial

Read Staff's Posts

May 31, 2012

1 min to read

CINCINNATI — First Student school bus driver Ford Thompson was recently honored for his service to students with special needs.

Thompson received the 2012 Charlie Parnell Memorial Award from Minnetonka (Minn.) Public Schools. The award recognizes a school professional who goes above and beyond to touch the lives of special-education students.

Officials said he donated the $750 award money back to the school district so that the students he serves can go on a field trip.

“Ford is an outstanding driver,” said Christine Rutledge, First Student location manager. “He is dedicated to the students he transports, treating them with respect and compassion. We are proud Ford was recognized for his service, and pleased to have him as a member of our team.”

Thompson has been a driver with First Student since 2004.

Topics:First Student Inc.Special Needs Transportation

More Special Needs Transportation

Students walking away from a school bus with a driver in the background, representing efforts to improve student behavior support and safety in school transportation programs.

Special Needs Transportation•by News/Media Release•March 20, 2026

First Student Boosts Student Support in Wichita & Texas

First Student and Wichita Public Schools are using behavioral support strategies to improve student ride experiences, while a separate initiative expands access to after-school programs through a bus donation.

7 Key Criteria for Choosing a School Bus Fleet Technology Partner

Selecting a fleet technology partner can be complex, especially with evolving operational demands and limited resources. This white paper outlines seven key criteria to help school transportation leaders evaluate options and align technology with their needs. It offers a practical framework to support more informed decision-making.

Infographic showing a yellow school bus with a wheelchair lift and charts highlighting 2026 special-needs transportation statistics, including ridership changes and driver pay comparisons.

2026 Special-Needs Transportation Survey

What’s changing in special-needs transportation? This year, student transportation operators report a rising need, easing driver shortages, growing tech adoption, and evolving challenges. Sponsored by AMF Bruns of America.

Sponsored•by Amanda Huggett•February 13, 2026

The Lived-Experience Gap in Mobility Tech: An Expert Take on Safe Student Transportation

Brianna Pauwee, a product application specialist at AMF Bruns of America and a wheelchair user, drops in to The Route to share practical securement and training insights, plus the story behind the new “Beyond Mobility” podcast. The Route is sponsored by IC Bus.