Now Online: School Bus Fleet's February 2025 Special-Needs Issue
From IEP communication to assistive technology and our annual special-needs survey results, don't miss these need-to-know articles.
Check out the latest topics related to special-needs transportation in our February 2025 issue.
Photo: School Bus Fleet
The latest issue of School Bus Fleet is now available, and our annual special-needs edition! Designed to deliver topics and trends to keep you informed, these articles were chosen based on real industry feedback into the pain points and areas of opportunity, voiced by you!
In February's issue, you'll find:
A recap of the results from our special-needs survey. Find out what this year's data tells us about staffing and pay, tech adoption, fleet makeup, and more.
A rundown of the latest and most-recommended assistive devices and tools to use on the bus to support students with diverse physical and cognitive needs.
Tips for increasing communication and collaboration between a district's transportation and special-education teams to deliver crucial IEP information.
An editor's note exploring what's behind the rise in special-needs transportation.
A preview of the upcoming National Congress on School Transportation.
Five questions and answers with Teena Mitchell on all things special needs.
A list of 10 ideas to celebrate Love the Bus Month, and from from our editorial board about why they love the bus.
How one district in Maine went all in on propane.
How one New York school used state funds to create a new driver training program to solve their driver shortage and improve culture.
NSTA's take on the new presidential administration.
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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