BusRight has named Lawson Crook, a special education bus driver for Sulphur Springs Independent School District in Texas, as the recipient of its first-ever Behind The Wheel Award, recognizing his dedication to students and community service.

The all-in-one student transportation technology provider selected Crook from 322 nominations submitted by transportation leaders nationwide. The award program, launched on National School Bus Driver Appreciation Day in April, was created to spotlight the contributions school bus drivers make to student transportation and school communities.

“School bus drivers play a deeply meaningful role in the lives of every student they serve, helping ensure safe, consistent, daily transportation and acting as trusted members of the school community,” said Keith Corso, co-founder and CEO of BusRight. “The Behind The Wheel Award shines a well-deserved light on these drivers, and from 322 compelling nominations and 13 finalists, Lawson stood out this year for exemplifying the award and demonstrating the devotion and care BusRight is immensely proud to recognize.”

A retired educator and coach, Crook spent 26 years working with students before transitioning to school transportation. Today, he drives a multi-school special education route, greeting students at their doorsteps and helping ensure safe, reliable transportation each day. According to district officials, he brings the same focus on trust, consistency, and respect that defined his years in the classroom and on the athletic field.

“Lawson brings to his current position as a driver a deep understanding of the students and community he serves,” said Dan Froneberger, transportation director for Sulphur Springs ISD. “He approaches every route with the same patience, care and sense of responsibility that characterized his many years as an educator, always prioritizing student safety and treating every child and staff member with respect, consideration and kindness.”

BusRight noted that despite facing significant health challenges this year, Crook missed only a handful of workdays and returned to his route as quickly as possible, reflecting his commitment to the students he serves.

As part of the award, Sulphur Springs ISD will receive a donation of up to 300 Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 3 tablets. The devices will support the district’s Special Education and Connection programs, which provide graduates with opportunities to continue developing life and vocational skills through hands-on learning experiences.

Crook will also receive a gift package valued at $500.

BusRight said the award reflects its broader mission to support safe, reliable, and efficient student transportation while recognizing the transportation professionals who make those services possible. With more than 20 million students relying on school transportation nationwide, the company hopes the program will continue to highlight the often-unseen impact school bus drivers have on students and families.