Bus driver arranges farm field trip for student

When Lisa Teepen learned that a student on her bus route had missed a kindergarten field trip to a farm, she got permission from the student’s family and the school administration for him to join another kindergarten class's trip to the farm. Teepen was scheduled to drive that group the following day and wanted to be sure the student did not miss out on the experience.

District expects activity buses to save $4,000 per trip

Southern California's William S. Hart Union High School District specs the Blue Bird Type D buses to turn them into activity buses, outfitting them with coach-style seating, overhead open storage compartments and ducted air-conditioning systems. Director of Transportation Richard Varner estimates that using these buses will cost around $2,000 per trip on the longest trips, compared to $6,000 for a charter bus.

Lawrence training scholarships, Bluth field trip grant available

Peter and Linda Lawrence have again endowed four scholarships that will help four bus driver trainers or front line supervisors attend the National Association for Pupil Transportation Summit this year in Grand Rapids, Mich., by covering the cost of registration fees. Dr. Linda Bluth and her partner, Betsy Eisman, endowed their annual $500 grant to help association members provide an enhanced learning experience for students.

Snapshots — Fall 2012/Winter 2013

Scholarships offered for NAPT conference, field trips

The scholarships from Peter Lawrence, director of transportation for Fairport (N.Y.) Central School District, Zonar Systems and National Association for Pupil Transportation Past President Dr. Linda Bluth are available through the association.

When they don't go yellow

As a school transportation director, you may not be able to mandate that school buses be used for activity trips, but you can help ensure that safe motorcoach carriers are selected.

NASDPTS to create model pre-trip evacuation briefing

The action is part of the state pupil transportation directors’ response to a National Transportation Safety Board recommendation, which stemmed from the fatal school bus crash in Gray Summit, Mo.

New app provides safety info on bus companies

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's free SaferBus application, for iPhones and iPads, lets users review companies' safety records before booking bus trips. Those without one of the Apple devices can still access the safety database online.

Finding multiple ways to generate revenue

Bus companies and school district transportation departments are making $50,000 to more than $2 million through such efforts as inter-district service, school bus ridership fees and bus advertising. Here, officials discuss the specifics of these programs and other work that brings in extra money.

Scholarships promote learning opportunities

Several scholarships for school bus industry conferences and student field trips are available through the National Association for Pupil Transportation.