California driver training specialist Leann Kenley to retire
Kenley is set to step down from her position at the California Department of Education's Office of School Transportation on Sept. 30. State pupil transportation director Anna Borges tells SBF that Kenley has made significant contributions to the California pupil transportation community, particularly in the area of special needs.

Leann Kenley has more than 23 years of experience in the transportation industry.
WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Transportation veteran Leann Kenley is set to retire next week from her role as a state bus driver training programs specialist.
Kenley will step down from her position at the California Department of Education's Office of School Transportation (OST) on Sept. 30. She has more than 23 years of experience in the transportation industry.
Antonio Perez, previously of San Dieguito Union High School District in Encinitas, has joined the OST to take on the role of bus driver instructor training program specialist.
Kenley joined the OST in 2005. She previously served as an instructor and as a driver at the Kern County Superintendent of Schools.
State pupil transportation director Anna Borges told SBF that Kenley has made significant contributions to the California pupil transportation community, particularly in the area of special-needs transportation. For example, she oversaw OST’s conference on that topic.
“Her wholehearted love is transporting students with disabilities,” Borges said.
After her retirement, Kenley will go through truck driving school and then begin a new career team driving across the country with her husband.
More Management
How to Build a Better Driver Training Program
Ready to boost up your school bus instructor training? Here’s how to pick the right talent and improve recruitment, retention, and safety.
Read More →
CALSTART and Forth Combine to Form Catalyst Mobility
The new name represents a renewed vision for the nonprofit focused on advancing clean, equitable, and affordable transportation solutions that move people and goods.
Read More →
What Makes a Great School Bus Driver Trainer?
Choosing the right school bus driver trainer takes more than experience. Learn six keys to selecting and developing trainers and evaluating program effectiveness.
Read More →
School Bus Contractors Expand Through New Deals, Acquisitions & Partnerships
STA's Canadian division acquires Ontario-based G&L Stevenson Transport; Durham School Services adds a new district in California; First Student expands in New Jersey; and Minnesota Coaches rebrands and acquires Halo Transportation.
Read More →
Logan Bus Company Rolls Out AI Phone System for NYC School Bus Families
A summer pilot found that AI agents could handle most routine calls, freeing up time for customer service staff to focus on emergencies and complex family concerns.
Read More →
From Intent to Impact: What I Learned About Leadership from TAPT
A Texas transportation supervisor shares lessons on self-awareness, accountability, managing stress and building trust — and why investing in leadership development matters at every stage of your career.
Read More →
NAPT Names 2026 Award Recipients, Hall of Fame Inductee
Who earned national recognition for their work in student transportation? This year, NAPT named five recipients of its 2026 awards for service, safety, and leadership, plus its newest Hall of Famer.
Read More →
2026 State of Student Transportation Report
Driver shortages. Rising costs. Growing safety expectations. More data, but not enough time to act on it. The 2026 State of Student Transportation Report reveals what transportation leaders say is putting the most pressure on their operations—and where they’re investing next. See how your priorities compare.
Read More →
How to De-Escalate an Angry Person: 5 Steps for Handling Workplace Conflict
What makes emotions run high, and how should you handle an angry colleague or parent? Follow these steps for staying calm, listening, showing empathy, and resolving conflict.
Read More →
What Readiness Looks Like This School Year
Learn about the challenges shaping the 2026–2027 school year, from persistent driver shortages and budget pressure to technology and readiness gaps. See how school districts are responding and adapting in Zonar’s 2026 Back-to-School Readiness Report.
Read More →

