ANNANDALE, Minn. — Six school bus drivers from around the state were recently recognized for exemplary service during the Minnesota School Bus Operators Association’s annual conference.

The drivers received the Transportation Specialist Award, which is based on such criteria as years of service, dedication to safety, community service achievements, communication with school staff and letters of recommendation from parents, co-workers, students and school staff.  

This year’s recipients were:

• Shannon Bussert of Faribault Transportation Co. in Faribault

• Bruce Chamberlin of M & M Bus Service Inc. in Annandale

• Amy Holland of Lake City Bus Lines in Lake City

• Jerry Lee Kopischke of Lake Crystal School Bus Service Inc. in Lake Crystal

• Margaret Salzbrun of Spanier Bus Service Inc. in St. Cloud

• Donald Strack of Strack’s Bus Service in Randall

In addition to winning the award, a $1,000 check was given in each driver’s name to a scholarship fund for deserving youth in the school districts they serve.