Derek Canode, maintenance supervisor for Durham School Services, has been named Technician of the Year by the Idaho Department of Education for his significant contribution to student transportation. 

Canode was nominated for the recognition and was selected as the winner by a review committee. Qualities such as leadership abilities, being a positive role model, and commitment to safety and student transportation were also considered while choosing the winner.

Canode was honored on July 28, 2025, at the Idaho Student Transportation Awards Banquet, surrounded by family and team members. Travis Shaw, region maintenance manager, presented Canode the award.

The nomination form submitted by Durham School Service Area General Manager Samuel Ray said: “By the start of school in August [last year], Derek was able to lead his team to get each of the 235 buses titled and registered, inspect each bus, fix any issues, get the buses to meet Idaho codes, and work with the Idaho Board of Education transportation department to inspect them. Since the start of school, Derek was able to meet all expectations on PM compliance and ensure safe and reliable pupil transportation to the families of the West Ada School District.”

“From the very beginning, Derek hit the ground running in his role as maintenance supervisor for our new partnership with the West Ada School District. He led his team to success in ensuring the fleet of 200+ buses was in tip-top shape and ready for the new school year,” Ray said. “Derek’s work ethic and dedication to safety is beyond admirable. He is truly the golden example of a leader who exhibits the company’s values of safety and excellence to the highest degree. Congrats, Derek. Thanks for your leadership, dedication, and for being part of our team.”