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ANNANDALE, Minn. — Six school bus drivers from around the state were awarded the 2011 Transportation Specialist Award from the Minnesota School Bus Operators Association (MSBOA) during its annual summer conference.

Sharyn Nepsha of Kottkes’ Bus Service, Galen Nilson of Lake Crystal School Bus Service, Debra Pawlowicz of Voyageur Bus Co., Geoff Ralston of Lake City Bus Lines, Mike Schreyer of Faribault Transportation Co. Inc. and Olav Thormodson of Madelia Bus Service received the award.

The drivers were nominated by their supervisors as individuals who exemplify the best of the best in school transportation.  The applications were judged on criteria such 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.

In addition to the award, a $1,000 check was awarded in each driver’s name to go toward a scholarship fund for deserving youth in the school district he or she serves.

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In addition to the Transportation Specialist Awards, two former MSBOA board members were recognized for their efforts to the school bus industry.

Lyle Hicks was awarded the Jim DeVeau Award in honor of his many accomplishments both as legislative chair and president of the MSBOA. Dick Plahn received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to the school bus industry.

The MSBOA was created in 1948 to focus efforts on school bus safety for its passengers in the state. For more information, visit www.msboa.com.