Six Durham School Services’ maintenance teams in Missouri have been honored by the Missouri State Highway Patrol for its Total Fleet Excellence Award. The award recognizes the teams' commitment to safety.

The teams awarded were Central, Kearney, Lawson, Savannah, Smithville, and Pleasant Hill.

The Smithville team earned this award for the first time after beginning its transportation service to the community just last fall.

Every year, the Missouri State Highway Patrol conducts school bus inspections as part of their annual program, covering a thorough list of inspection areas including brakes, crossing control arm, seats, tires, and more. Upon completion of the inspection, if over 90% of the fleet passes the inspection with zero out-of-service defects, they receive the Total Fleet Excellence Award.

Winners receive an award sticker to display on theirs buses and a certificate.

“Through the incredibly dedicated efforts of our team members, these respective locations were able to receive the Total Fleet Excellence Award from the MSHP in recognition of their commitment to safety,” said Philip McPherson, Regional Maintenance Manager, Durham School Services. “The award, sense of achievement, and prestige that comes with it is much deserved, and I couldn’t be more proud of each team. Congrats to our Central, Kearney, Lawson, Savannah, Smithville, and Pleasant Hill fleet teams and thank you for giving it your all behind the scenes to ensure that students are able to get to school safely, on time, and ready to learn.”