NAPT Summit 2011

NAPT trade show features many new products

Among the new products from the nearly 130 exhibitors is a quasi-static three-point activity seat from Freedman Seating Co., a camera system from Fortress Mobile that captures stop-arm violators and a condenser from American Cooling Technology. Thomas Built Buses displays its redesigned Type D unit, the Saf-T-Liner EFX, while Blue Bird displays its Next Generation Propane-Powered Vision school bus.

Pupil transporters honored for service, safety excellence

School bus driver John Fothergill and Peter Lawrence of Fairport (N.Y.) Central School District were among the honorees at Sunday's NAPT awards banquet. During Monday's celebratory breakfast, this year's "America's Best" school bus technician and inspector were among the individuals recognized for their achievements.

Mike Connors named Administrator of the Year

The director of transportation at Florida’s Brevard Public Schools oversees an operation of more than 400 route buses, but he shows an exemplary level of personal attention to customers. He also just served a two-year term as president of his state association.

Q&A: NAPT's Alexandra Robinson casts an eye on the future

At this year's conference in Cincinnati, Alexandra Robinson will become president of the National Association for Pupil Transportation. Her goals include analyzing the link between student achievement and access to school bus service, and maintaining and growing the industry's pool of strong leaders.

Annual association conferences: off to Ohio

This year’s NASDPTS and NAPT conferences will be held in Cincinnati, covering such topics as student behavior challenges, stop-arm violations and maintaining a transportation program under serious budget restraints. The NAPT trade show will feature more than 100 exhibits from industry suppliers.

Who’s behind the wheel?: optimizing driver background checks

Officials say it is important to conduct both federal and state checks, as well as monitor applicants’ driving records. Pupil transporters discuss their operations’ hiring policies and procedures, which include contacting previous employers, and also share suggestions on ways the industry could protect itself against undesirable candidates who move from state to state.

Pupil transporters plan activities, issue tips for School Bus Safety Week

From industry associations to school districts to contractors, officials are gearing up to observe the national event, which will be held next week. Participation in Operation Safe Stop, poster and writing contests, and recognizing bus drivers for performance excellence are among the activities in the works. Officials urge students and motorists to use caution when walking and driving around school buses.

NAPT Summit keynote speaker to discuss bullying prevention crusade

Jessica Brookshire will share with attendees her passion for and the mission of K.A.R.M.A: Kids Against Ridicule, Meanness and Aggression, which she founded. Brookshire has appeared at schools across Alabama and Georgia, speaking to more than 85,000 children in two years on behalf of the organization.

Donald Tudor retires after 20 years as state director

The industry stalwart from South Carolina plans to remain active in pupil transportation, offering consulting services to school districts. Tim Camp, who has been working for Tudor for the past seven years, is named the new state director.