Overturned bus training an ‘eye-opener’ for staff

More than 80 people in Van Buren County, Mich., participate in an emergency training event that shows them what it feels like to be in an overturned school bus as well as one filled with smoke. Transportation Supervisor Mark Niewoonder shares details on the hands-on event and how it changed staff members’ perceptions.

Emergency Training in an Overturned Bus

First Observer security program on hiatus

HMS Co., which has administered First Observer since 2008, stops receiving funding, but the Transportation Security Administration has reportedly said that the program will be active again in the near future. Meantime, classroom training and other program functions have been placed on hold.

NHTSA child restraints video now on DVD

For transporting very young children who must be secured in child safety restraint systems, the agency's free video covers the key steps of selection, direction, location and installation. It also demonstrates the proper placement of children in a safety restraint.

NASDPTS looks at ways to enhance training, service

From routing strategies to innovative facilities, speakers at the state directors conference share numerous ideas for enhancing school bus service and training. The NASDPTS membership continues to change, now with Colorado state director Bruce Little announcing his coming retirement and Greta Bleau taking on the role.

Learning From a School Bus Crossing Tragedy

Hunter Pitt, a 6-year-old in Callaway County, Mo., was killed in January 2011 when his school bus ran over him as he crossed in front.

Iowa DOT unveils school bus safety page on website

The page includes information on the danger zone around a school bus, the state law and penalties for illegally passing a stopped bus, driver training resources and more.

Kerlin shows commitment to training, customers

As Indiana's Kerlin Bus Sales and Leasing celebrates 50 years as a Thomas Built Buses dealer, the family-run company focuses on providing instruction for bus drivers and technicians so they are well-versed in the industry's latest technology.

School bus company goes blue for bullying prevention

More than 750 drivers, monitors and other employees at All-Star Transportation don blue T-shirts calling for students to “Be Nice on My Bus!” The move is part of the fourth annual Blue Shirt Day, the World Day of Bullying Prevention.

Rolling V expands use of GreenRoad technology

The school bus company began using GreenRoad’s driver performance service in 2009 and is increasing its use in the fleet based on positive results it has had, officials say. With the service, algorithms monitor driver performance along five key maneuver categories, and if a risky or inefficient event occurs, the driver is given immediate feedback with red, yellow or green LED cues.