Description: Join Everdriven for a poolside networking reception to connect with peers and continue conversations. Enjoy a refreshment as we raise a toast to the start of the STN EXPO.
Sponsored by
Welcome Party at EDGE Nightclub
Saturday, July 11 | 8 p.m. – 10 p.m.
STN EXPO Welcome Party at EDGE Nightclub (Drinks)
Step into a night worthy of Gatsby himself at the STN EXPO Welcome Party, where opulence, intrigue, and dazzling elegance set the scene. This Great Gatsby themed soirée invites you to immerse yourself in a world of glittering lights, flowing cocktails, and lively conversation. Connect with industry leaders and peers amid an atmosphere of lavish style and sophistication, where every detail evokes the spirit of
an unforgettable celebration. Raising a glass to the industry professionals and leaders for making student transportation safer and more reliable than ever before!
Attire: Dress to impress in black tie or Gatsby style!
Event Highlights:
• Live Entertainment
• Signature Drinks
• Interactive Experiences
Sponsored by
July 10—11, 2026
Peppermill Resort, Reno
The Chateau at Lake Tahoe
Enjoy two days of focused higher learning and networking experience that blends together school district leaders, private fleet managers, industry suppliers and OEMs. Participants will network with peers, off-site at The Chateau at Incline Village, Lake Tahoe, prior to the start of the regular STN EXPO conference. Discussing the newest innovations and best practices that impact your school transportation operations now. We invite you to come together for this event at no cost to qualified decision makers. Be a part of the community of pupil transportation directors and executives that are making a difference in our industry.
Join us at the Bus Technology Summit, where we delve into the latest technology trends. Gain valuable insights and engage in thought-provoking discussions on the advancements shaping the future of the industry and the Green Bus Summit to discover the latest advancements in sustainable transportation and connect with leaders in the industry.
• Networking Reception: Food, Drinks, Games & Entertainment
Platinum Sponsor
Backpack Sponsor
Bruce Turkel | Monday, July 13
9 A.M. — 10:15 A.M.
Capri Ballroom
All About Them: Why Relentless Relevance Wins
Sponsored by
In a world filled with nonstop noise, endless options, and shrinking attention spans, the people and businesses that succeed are the ones who make their message instantly relevant.
In this fast-paced, entertaining keynote, Hall of Fame speaker and brand strategist Bruce Turkel shares how great brands, leaders, and organizations cut through the clutter by focusing less on themselves and more on what truly matters to their customers. Through stories, humor, and real-world examples from companies you know, Bruce reveals why the key to standing out today is understanding one simple idea: it’s all about them.
It’s remembering—it’s All About Them.
Featured Speakers
The
July 13
Reliable transportation for students who depend on consistency.
High-accountability support for the services you already provide.
IEP, McKinney-Vento, Foster & Out-of-District Students
Specialized care for students who need it most.
Complements District Fleets Provides alternative solutions and complements districts transportation solutions.
Real-Time Tracking, Dashboards & Reporting
Full visibility on every route, every ride. Every student’s transportation. Reliable. Consistent. Dependable.
TALK
Jason Yan VP of Sales, RIDE Sunday, July 12
Karoon Monfared CEO, Bus Patrol America
Charles Kriete CEO, Zonar Sunday, July 12
Vivek Garg Co-Founder/ CEO, Zum Monday,
Conference Speakers
Keba Baldwin
Director of Transportation & Central Garage Prince George’s County Public in Maryland
Pete Baxter Retired State Director, Office of Transportation Indiana Department of Education
Bernando Brown Director of Student Transportation DeKalb County School District in Georgia
Derek Bryant Manager, Medium/Heavy Vehicle Test Development National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence
Jeff Cassell
President School Bus Safety Company
Tony Corpin President & Publisher
School Transportation News
Denny Coughlin Consultant School Bus Training LLC
Sandy Dillman CEO SLD Consultation
Darryl Dotson, Jr.
Assistant Director of Transportation Fountain Fort Carson School District in Colorado
EASY WAY SAFETY SERVICES
SPECIALISTS IN SAFE TRANSPORTATION
DISTRIBUTORS FOR:
EZ-ON
Safety Vests
Max2 Vests
Custom Vests
BESI
Universal Vest/Safe Journey Mounts Pro Tech IV
Certified Seat Covers Evacuation and Fire Blankets
Q’STRAINT/SURE-LOK Wheel Chair Tie Downs
SAFEGUARD
Standard Star and SuperSTAR Seats 3PT Lap/Shoulder Belt Seats
Ernest Epley Director of Transportation Fremont Unified School District in California
Safety Vests, Cam Harnesses, Custom Vests, Pro Tech III, Universal Vests, Over the Shoulder Harness, New Safe Journey Mount, Wheel Chair Tie Downs, Star Seats Including the New SuperStar, Bus Seat Replacement Covers and Parts, 3 Point/ Integrated School Bus Seats, Safety Vests, Cam Harnesses, Custom Vests, Pro Tech III, Universal Vests, Over the Shoulder Harness, New Safe Journey Mount, Wheel Chair Tie Downs, Star Seats
Conference Speakers
Alan Fidler Fleet Manager
Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township in Indiana
Richard Fischer CEO Trans-Consult
CHILD SAFETY PROGRAM
Vivek Garg Co-Founder & COO Zum
Ryan Gray Editor in Chief
School Transportation News
Ryan Hahn Senior Consultant Strategic School Consultants
Rudi Halbright Expert Product Manager, VehicleGridV2G Integration Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E)
Michael Hout Professor New Mexico State University
Richard Jimenez Director of Transportation Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District in California
Cor’Darius Jones Bus Driver
Escambia County Schools in Florida
Grant Jones Director Updraft Energy, Inc.
Conference Speakers
Alfred Karam
Retired Director of Transportation Shenendehowa School District in New York
Ron Kinney
Retired State Director
California Department of Education
Tonica Lathrop President Sinnett Consulting Services
Jim Levine President & CEO
Levine Security Solutions
Jannet Malig Co-Director
Long Beach Clean Cities in California
Pamela McDonald Consultant
Lawson Mollica Consultant
Long Beach Clean Cities in California
Harley Pinson
Director of Fleet Maintenance
Paulding County School District in Georgia
Timothy Purvis Principal Consultant
Pupil Transportation Information, LLC
Darren Reaume Director of Training
Q’Straint / Sure-Lok
Brian Reu Lieutenant at State Patrol
Minnesota Department of Public Safety
Alexandra Robinson President A. Robinson Consulting
David Roper Automotive Instructor
Long Beach Clean Cities in California
Jim Schiffler Author, Entrepreneur & Professional Speaker
GP Singh CEO / Founder ByteCurve
Kevin Spackman Vice President S.T.A.R.T.
Greg Truhan
Senior Special Agent (retired)
United States Secret Service
Maritza Valentin
Contract/National Account Manager
AMF-Bruns America in Florida
Rosalyn Vann-Jackson Executive Director of Enrollment & Student Services
Broken Arrow Public Schools in Oklahoma
John Zippay Vice President
Levine Security Solutions
Conference Speakers
All information is subject to change. Download the conference app for the latest information.
THURSDAY, JULY 9
5 P.M. – 7 P.M. | Tuscany Hotel Registration Desk
Registration Check-In + Kick Off Reception
Join us as we kick off the STN EXPO West with an exciting evening filled with networking opportunities, refreshing drinks, and delicious appetizers. This vibrant gathering is not only a fantastic way to ignite the event but also offer the opportunity to connect with fellow attendees, share ideas, and build valuable relationships that will enhance your conference experience. Socialize and set the stage for what promises to be an incredible week ahead.
Join EverDriven for a poolside networking reception to connect with peers and continue conversations. Enjoy a refreshment as we raise a toast to the start of the STN EXPO West.
Sponsored by
FRIDAY, JULY 10
8 A.M. – 12 P.M. | Naples 6 & 7
Elements of School Transportation Active-Threat Response Training
Speakers: Jim Levine & John Zippay with Kevin Speakman & Greg Truhan
This 4-hour seminar launches STN EXPO West with intensive training designed specifically for school bus drivers and transportation staff to address critical safety gaps in handling high-stress, life-threatening situations. Led by experts with law enforcement experience, the program focuses on equipping school bus drivers with practical, scenario-based response skills tailored to the unique challenges of the school bus environment, such as confined spaces, limited exits, and the presence of children. The training emphasizes the legal doctrine in loco parentis, crisis de-escalation techniques, juvenile behavioral intelligence, and active threat response strategies. Key topics include recognizing and responding to threats, managing conflicts, identifying early warning signs of violence, and taking life-preserving actions during active threats. By reinforcing lawful decision-making and reducing hesitation under pressure, the seminar aims to empower drivers with clarity, confidence, and the ability to act decisively in critical moments. The program ultimately seeks to enhance school bus safety and protect students and staff in emergency situations.
VISIONCLOUD
VisionCloud is Safety Vision’s cloud-hosted enterprise video management system (VMS), using AI-powered automation and telematics to simplify fleet monitoring and video management.
Conference Schedule
8
A.M. – 5
P.M. | Naples 1 – 4
National School Bus Inspection Training - Day 1
Instructors: Derek Bryant, Alan Fidler, Jannet Malig, Harley Pinson & Lt. Brian Reu
Developed by school bus maintenance and inspection expert Marshall Casey, STN EXPO West offers the National School Bus Inspection Training Program to fully train technicians on how to conduct regular vehicle inspections, above and beyond state or federal Department of Transportation guidance. The program is derived from best practices used in overseeing the maintenance of school buses in South Carolina, the only completely owned and operated state fleet in the nation. Attendees will learn how to discover more defects prior to failure, which allows for expedited repairs, increased vehicle uptime, and a more efficient maintenance program. Friday’s agenda includes eight hours of classroom instruction, including a written exam, with a second day of hands-on identification planned for defects on real school buses, hosted by Washoe County School District and with transportation provided. This program requires separate registration and fee.
9 A.M. – 12 P.M. | Tuscany 11 & 12
Mastering Wheelchair & Occupant Securement Training
Certification Class
Instructor: Maritza Valentin
At this Training Boot Camp, student transporters will learn to train with AMF Bruns’ recently launched automatic and self-tensioning Silver Series retractors. With this course, school transportation professionals will be provided with the tools to support and teach their teams proper safety techniques, which include hands-on training. The key aspects of this course are: Overview of equipment, securing the wheelchair, securing the occupant with a different variety of occupant securements, understanding your vehicle floor anchorages, WC 18 and WC 19 and understanding the regulation,identifying a WC 19 wheelchair, raising awareness about risks of not properly securing passengers, deboarding passengers, and passenger sensitivity/etiquette.
Certification will be provided upon completion of this course. Pre-registration required.
Presented by
1 P.M. – 3 P.M. | Naples 6 & 7
Supervisory Reasonable Suspicion Training
Instructor: Tonica Lathrop
Sinnett Consulting Services will be conducting a training class on supervisory reasonable suspicion testing. Course instructor Tonica Lathrop has 25-plus years of experience in managing employer DOT and alcohol and drug compliance programs and is a certified training instructor. The class satisfies federal DOT training requirements and will cover the following topics: Recognition of signs and symptoms of employee alcohol and drug abuse; review of new drugs of abuse (Salvia, K2, Spice, Krokodil & others); how to document performance problems
See Us at Booth 225
Conference Schedule
associated with alcohol and drug abuse; and how to conduct the corrective interview–practical and legal concerns.
(Certificate received upon completion.)
3 P.M. – 6 P.M. | Tuscany E & F
Transportation Director Summit – Day 1
Speaker: Tony Corpin
The Transportation Director Summit at STN EXPO West is a signature event designed exclusively for qualified transportation directors. Participants will network with peers throughout two days, starting the afternoon of Friday, July 10 at the Peppermill Resort and continuing all day Saturday, July 11 at The Chateau at Incline Village in Lake Tahoe. Successful applicants will gain high-level insights from experts within the student transportation industry and beyond, on how to implement true leadership and innovation practices into their local operation. Attendance is required on both days. Transportation, breakfast and lunch are provided Saturday, July 11. Pre-registration and acceptance required.
SATURDAY, JULY
11
Transportation Director Summit – Day 2
Buses load at 6:45 A.M. depart at 7 A.M. for Incline Village, Lake Tahoe
Transportation Pick-up at Peppermill Hotel Entrance. Please bring your conference badge to be scanned prior to boarding.
9 A.M. – 5 P.M. | Incline Village, Lake Tahoe
Transportation Director Summit – Day 2
DEALERS . SUPPORTING OEMS .
Keynote Speaker: Bruce Turkel
All About Them Leadership Lab: Turning Insight Into Action Great leadership starts with understanding what matters to the people you lead.
In this interactive leadership lab, Hall of Fame speaker and brand strategist Bruce Turkel leads four fast-paced workshop sessions designed to help transportation leaders communicate more clearly, build stronger trust, improve team alignment, and lead more effectively through change. Each session delivers practical tools and real-world strategies participants can apply immediately inside their organizations.
• Seeing Through Their Eyes
Understanding What People Value Most
• Communicating With Clarity
Turning Complex Ideas into Messages People
Understand and Trust
• Building Trust Through Connection
Strengthening Relationships, Collaboration, and Accountability
• Leading Change with Purpose
Helping Teams Navigate Uncertainty and Move Forward Together
Pre-registration and acceptance required.
ONE PARTNER. ENDLESS SOLUTIONS. Bus Upfitters delivers expert installation of quality aftermarket products that help you win more business, keep customers satisfied, and keep buses on the road. QUALITY WORK. FAST TURNAROUND. EVERY TIME.
FOR DEALERS QUALITY YOU CAN TRUST ON TIME. EVERY TIME. We make it easy to grow your business with reliable service, quick turnaround, and expert support Expert installers. Premium products. Work done right the first time. We value your time and your customers. Count on us to deliver when it matters. LET’S BUILD WHAT’S NEXT DEALERS. CONTRACTORS. OEMs.
US
8 A.M. – 8:50 A.M. | Naples 6 & 7
Improving Technician Workflow and Shop Organization by Transfinder (with Continental Breakfast)
Speaker: Zachary Moren
Technicians learn how to use Servicefinder to improve shop organization and reduce reliance on paper or manual processes. Learn how technology supports better planning, communication, and consistency in daily shop operations. Continental breakfast is included for session attendees. Attendance Encouraged for all Inspection Training Attendees
Presented by Transportation
Buses depart for National School Bus Inspection Training – Day 2
Bus load at 8:50 A. M. Departing at 9 A.M.
Begin the day at the “Integrating Technology Continental Breakfast.” Leaving together at 9 A.M. to Washoe County School District in the Peppermill Lobby. Please bring your conference badge to be scanned prior to boarding.
Transportation Provided by
9 A.M. – 5 P.M. | Washoe County School District
National School Bus Inspection Training - Day 2
Instructors: Derek Bryant, Alan Fidler, Jannet Malig, Harley Pinson & Lt. Brian Reu
Developed by school bus maintenance and inspection expert Marshall Casey, STN EXPO offers the National School Bus Inspection Training Program to fully train technicians on how to conduct regular vehicle inspections, above and beyond state or federal Department of Transportation guidance. Day two features hands- on identification of defects on real school buses and overviews of ASE’s new high-voltage accreditation program for school bus technicians and electric school bus components. Transportation and lunch will be provided. This program requires separate registration and fee.
IDEA was passed in 1975, making schools national leaders in providing equal services for the disabled community. However, today, over 40 years after its passage, school transportation providers are still consistently struggling to safely transport some students with disabilities and to secure the most difficult mobility devices. While wheelchair securement equipment has improved dramatically during this timeframe, there are hundreds of wheelchairs on the market which are not designed to be transported. In this presentation, explore the factors that have contributed to this dynamic, provide extensive troubleshooting practices for difficult mobility devices and occupant securement situations, and offer
recommendations--based on our more than 35 years of industry experience--that can help school districts and transportation providers greatly reduce the risk these devices pose to the safety of their students and the liability of the district.
Note: This is an advanced course designed for experienced transportation directors, supervisors, and trainers who can help implement the troubleshooting techniques and best practice recommendations within their district. It is strongly recommended that attendees have extensive previous wheelchair securement experience. This program requires separate registration.
Presented By
11:30 A.M. – 5 P.M. | Naples 6 & 7
So, You Want to Become a Transportation Supervisor?
Presenters: Pam McDonald, Tim Purvis, Alexandra Robinson & Rosalynn Vann-Jackson
A panel of student transportation experts provides best practices for attendees who wish to transition into a supervisory role or who are looking to brush up on skill sets. Topics include: How to provide the best customer service while managing parent and administration expectations; creating, building and molding teams; communication strategies to increase driver and attendant retention and productivity; principles of proper routing and planning; and managing and tracking data to improve your organization.
This program requires separate registration.
Refreshments Provided by
8 P.M. – 10 P.M. | EDGE Nightclub
STN EXPO West Welcome Party
Step into a night worthy of Gatsby himself at the STN EXPO West Welcome Party, where opulence, intrigue, and dazzling elegance set the scene. This Great Gatsby themed soirée invites you to immerse yourself in a world of glittering lights, flowing cocktails, and lively conversation. Connect with industry leaders and peers amid an atmosphere of lavish style and sophistication, where every detail evokes the spirit of an unforgettable celebration. Raising a glass to the industry professionals and leaders for making student transportation safer and more reliable than ever before!
Attire: Dress to impress in black tie or Gatsby style!
Event Highlights:
• Live Entertainment
• Signature Drinks
• Interactive Experiences
Presented by
Live Tracking &
Shared Alerts
Parents and staff see buses in real time. Same data, same view.
Two-Way Communication
Real-time messaging between dispatch & drivers, and dispatch & school offices.
District-Requested Video Access AI-enabled dashcam footage for incident review and driver coaching.
The school bus is the first classroom of the day. Now parents and families have transparency to those moments.
Real-Time Visibility for Every Ride
Conference Schedule
SUNDAY, JULY 12
8 A.M. – 5 P.M. | Sorrento 3
Vehicle Electrical Systems Diagnosis
Instructor: David Roper
This all-day seminar provides school bus technicians with an understanding of basic electrical principles, common electrical components, circuit construction, digital multimeter operation and testing, wiring schematics, circuit tracing and troubleshooting of common circuit malfunctions. Emphasis is placed on circuit diagnosis using wiring schematics and digital multimeter data, enabling technicians to quickly and accurately solve electrical issues in light- and medium/heavy-duty vehicles. This program requires separate registration.
8 A.M. – 8:45 A.M. | Capri Ballroom
Welcome Address & Innovator of the Year Award Presentation
Speakers: Tony Corpin & Ryan Gray Coffee Sponsored by
8:45 A.M. – 9 A.M. | Capri Ballroom
GREEN TALK with RIDE: How It Started, How It’s Going
Speaker: Jason Yan
Jason Yan shares a high-level perspective on where RIDE has been, where the future of battery-electric school buses may be headed, and the student transportation opportunities ahead for school districts and communities alike.
Presented by
9:10 A.M. – 9:30 A.M. | Capri Ballroom
TECH TALK with Zonar: The State of Back-to-School Readiness
Speaker: Charles Kriete
When the school year ends, districts nationwide are already preparing for the next one. How ready is your transportation department? In this exclusive executive briefing, Zonar CEO Charles Kriete shares never before seen data from School Transportation News members. The report reveals where fleets are confident, where they’re under pressure and next steps. The session covers driver staffing, fleet readiness, technology adoption, and budget realities with data to back it up.
Presented by
9:45 A.M. – 10:30 A.M. | Capri Ballroom
Green Bus Summit: Slash Your Bus Fuel & Maintenance
Budget – Part 1: Adopt the Right Powertrain
Moderator: Stephen Whaley
As school districts evaluate future fleet investments, understanding the long-term impact of powertrain choices is more important than ever. This session will
The Standard for Safe Student Transport
Built in South Hutchinson, Kansas, Collins offers 20 models across Type A, MFSAB, MPV, and Childcare options, all designed for small routes, special needs, school activities, and after-school programs, delivering safe and dependable student transportation.
compare electric, propane, gasoline, and diesel school buses, exploring how each option affects emissions, operating costs, maintenance requirements, vehicle performance, and long-term fleet planning. Attendees will also gain insight into upcoming 2027 diesel regulations, the latest advancements in propane autogas technology, and how districts are reducing fuel and maintenance expenses while improving air quality and reliability. School district transportation leaders and powertrain experts will share real-world experiences and lessons learned.
Presented by
FROM FIRST PICKUP TO LAST DROP-OFF— ALWAYS CONNECTED.
10:45 A.M. – 11:30 A.M. | Naples 6 & 7
Green Bus Summit: Powertrain Clarity: Diesel Evolution and Gas Alternatives Answered
As powertrain choices continue to expand, fleet leaders are navigating more complexity than ever. In this blended presentation and panel discussion featuring Cummins, attendees will gain a clear understanding of how today’s diesel technology has evolved—and address common misconceptions that no longer reflect current reality. The session will explore the latest advancements in the B7.2 platform, examine the role of modern diesel as a clean and sustainable option, and introduce emerging gasoline solutions like the B6.7 Octane engine. Focused on performance, maintenance, and operational fit, this discussion will equip transportation leaders with practical insights to confidently evaluate powertrain options for their fleets.
Presented by
10:45 A.M. – 11:30 A.M. | Naples 1 & 2
BTS Lab & Demo with Transfinder: Transforming School Bus Operations with Tablet Technology
Speaker: Zachary Moren
This course introduces how utilizing tablet-based technology with Transfinder supports more efficient school bus operations by improving communication, reducing paperwork, and connecting drivers, technicians, and transportation staff. Participants gain a practical understanding of how tablets and onboard hardware are used to support daily operations.
Presented by
10:45 A.M. – 11:30 A.M. | Naples 3 & 4
BTS Lab & Demo with First Light Safety Products: How First Light’s Illuminated Safety Solutions Reduce Illegal Passings
Speakers: Doug Campbell & Max Christensen
The need for safer school buses has never been more urgent. Act now to prevent stop-arm violations and protect students on the road. First Light’s Illuminated School Bus Sign™ and Fully Illuminated Stop Arm™ are setting a new standard in school bus safety. Don’t let another day pass without protecting your students. What you’ll learn
Why Illumination Matters for School Bus Safety: Learn how
Gatekeeper Hosted Services, driven by G4 Vision™, deliver secure, cellular-based access to live video, transactions, and system data.
HOSTED SERVICES ALWAYS CONNECTED.
NATIONWIDE CELLULAR COVERAGE
SECURE & MANAGED
CELLULAR POWERED
PASSENGER COUNTER ALWAYS COUNTING.
ACCURATE RIDER DATA
REAL-TIME VISIBILITY
SUPPORTS STUDENT SAFETY
VISIT US AT STN EXPO BOOTH #339 | SEE WHY GATEKEEPER IS TRUSTED BY SCHOOL DISTRICTS ACROSS NORTH AMERICA
Conference Schedule
full illumination can make a school bus visible from more than 1,000 feet away, giving motorists more time to react and better protect students.
Proven Results in Reducing Illegal Passings: Review findings from a 15-month study showing measurable reductions in stop-arm with an average decrease of 88% in low-light conditions.
Affordable Safety Upgrades: See how districts can significantly reduce stop-arm violations with a cost-effective upgrade that is less than 1% of the price of a new bus.
Understanding the Benefits of Proactive Visibility: Discover how First Light improves visibility in any condition and helps transportation leaders make confident, informed safety decisions for their districts.
Don’t wait! Explore how First Light solutions are changing school bus safety. Every second counts when it comes to keeping kids safe. Join us to learn how easy it is to implement First Light’s life-saving solutions in your district.
Presented by
11:45 A.M. – 12:30 P.M. | Naples 6 & 7
Green Bus Summit: Powering Electric Buses When the Grid Falls Short
Speakers: Scott Bradley, Douglas Dagan, & Nikita Mishra
Many school districts are interested in electric buses but face a familiar barrier: The grid is not ready. Utility upgrades can take time, depot power may be limited, and charging infrastructure can delay fleet plans before the first bus even arrives. This panel will explore how propane-supported mobile charging, backup power, and temporary infrastructure can help districts pilot or deploy electric buses while permanent charging solutions are planned and built. Leaders from Suburban Propane, Pioneer eMobility, and ABB will discuss practical ways to evaluate grid readiness, charging needs, route fit, resiliency, and lower-emission fleet strategies, with lessons from a recent mobile e-charging activation at NASCAR San Diego.
Presented by
11:45 A.M. – 12:30 P.M. | Naples 1 & 2
BTS Lab & Demo with Cadex: Idle Assets, Active Revenue: Unlocking Loss of Use (LOU) & Auto Physical Damage (APD) Returns
Speakers: Mark Dittrich & Roger Fusco
Are you leaving recovery dollars on the table? Discover how APD and Loss of Use recoveries can unlock significant, often missed dollars within your fleet operations. Collision recovery alone often leaves meaningful dollars uncollected. Pursuing LOU alongside physical damage claims helps capture the full financial impact of vehicle downtime. Through real case studies, we’ll demonstrate how effective subrogation strategies directly improve financial outcomes and drive meaningful bottom-line results. Learn practical approaches to identifying, documenting,
Magnetic
Mic secures your radio microphone so drivers can hang it up and grab it without looking.
It works with the radios already in your fleet. No new equipment. Just install and go.
Free sample units available at booth 729
Conference Schedule
and maximizing recovery opportunities across your organization.
Walk away with practical tools to enhance your recovery process and improve financial performance.
Presented by
11:45 A.M. – 12:30 P.M. | Naples 3 & 4
BTS Lab & Demo with Geotab: How Transportation Directors Boost Safety and Driver Retention While Reducing Fuel Costs with AI
Speaker: Craig Berndt
Safety isn’t a place you visit. It’s a way of life. In this session, we will show you how AI can support you.Turn data into insights.Turn insights into coaching.Turn coaching into rewards. Drivers who a safe and happy use less fuel. AI takes care of the tasks along the way that you would do yourself if you had unlimited time and staffing.Geotab can show you how to take raw data and get to the things you really care about: safer driving with fewer collisions, more efficient fuel use and happy drivers who stay. With a complete end to end telematics, camera, AI analysis and driver rewards program, Geotab can be the partner you need, with a procurement process you’ll love.
Presented by
12:45 P.M. – 1:00 P.M. | Capri Ballroom
TECH TALK with BusPatrol: The Next Era of Student Safety
Speaker: Karoon Monfared
Student safety is entering a new era. Join BusPatrol CEO Karoon Monfared to learn where the future is headed so you don’t get left behind. Discover how your team can move to a more connected, proactive approach to student transportation safety.
Presented by
1:00 P.M. – 2:00 P.M. | Capri Ballroom
Lunch & Learn: Slash Your Bus Fuel & Maintenance Budget – Part 2: The Least Expensive Fueling Infrastructure
Once you’ve identified the right powertrain, the next question is how to fuel it affordably and reliably. This session explores why propane autogas fueling remains one of the simplest and most affordable infrastructure solutions available to school districts. Attendees will learn how fleets can deploy fueling systems with little or no upfront capital investment, secure predictable fuel pricing, integrate fuel management across multiple energy sources, and scale fueling capacity as adoption grows. Infrastructure experts and school district transportation leaders will share practical insights from both newly deployed and longrunning propane autogas fleets.
Presented by
At Opti-Luxx, we provide a full suite of the brightest and best school bus safety lights for every side of the bus, inside and out. We also deliver cost savings, fast shipping, and an excellent U.S. based customer service team.
Discover the superior safety, performance, and value of choosing Opti-Luxx lights by visiting us at Booth 613 or by sending us an email at: sales@opti-luxx.com. Enjoy the show!
Conference Schedule
2:15 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. | Naples 1 & 2
BTS Lab & Demo: AI Dash Cams turn Safety from Reactive to Preventative
Speaker: Scott Jobe
In student transportation, the cost of a single incident far exceeds the repair bill; it impacts student well-being and community trust. Many districts struggle with limited visibility into the moments that matter, leaving them in a reactive posture when safety incidents occur. By modernizing operations with AI dash cams, transportation leaders can move from guessing to knowing.
Presented by
2:15 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. | Naples 3 & 4
BTS Lab & Demo with BusRight: Driver Shortage and Routing Efficiencies
Speaker: Marty Miller
BusRight helps transportation departments do more with fewer drivers by improving routing visibility, reducing daily disruptions, and simplifying communication. Real-time GPS tracking, turn-by-turn navigation, and route management tools help drivers stay on schedule and confidently cover unfamiliar routes when substitutions are needed. For transportation leaders, BusRight provides the data and insights needed to identify routing inefficiencies, reduce unnecessary mileage, and optimize route performance.
Presented by
2:15 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. | Naples 6 & 7
BTS Lab & Demo with Verra Mobility: Next-Generation School Bus Safety
Speakers: Will Cleworth & Matt Reich
Join this session to hear from industry experts and learn more about advancing stop-arm enforcement through automation and real-world insights.
Presented by
3:15 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. | Naples 1 & 2
A Scientific Approach to Studying Illegal Stop Arm Passing
Speaker: Michael Hout, Ph.D.
Illegal passing of school buses is a persistent and serious safety threat, yet much of what the industry relies on today rests on incomplete data and intuition rather than rigorous science. In this session, Michael Hout, Ph.D., of New Mexico State University brings the tools of visual cognition and attention science to a deceptively simple question: How do we actually know what we think we know about illegal passing? Drawing on research into “look but fail to see” errors (the same perceptual failures studied in radiology, airport security screening, and more) he’ll explore why a motorist can look directly at a stopped bus and never register it, and why measuring the true scope of the problem is far harder than it sounds. The session weighs
Conference Schedule
the value and the limits of current counting methods, asks what a genuinely rigorous investigation would require, and invites attendees to help build one. Come with questions, opinions, and the intent to participate.
3:15 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. | Naples 3 & 4
Unlocking the Potential of V2G in School Fleets
Moderator: Grant Jones
Panelists: Ernest M. Epley & Rudi Halbright
Electric school buses have the potential to support a more resilient grid, while earning revenue for fleets. This session explores Fremont Unified School District’s V2G project. Hear from Fremont USD’s Transportation Director Ernest Epley,and PG&E’s vehicle-grid integration expert Rudi Halbright as they walk through how the project came together, what the day-to-day reality looks like, and what they’ve learned along the way. We’ll also cover the range of options available to districts exploring fleet electrification: from straightforward rate optimization to demand-response programs and bidirectional charging.
3:15 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. | Naples 6 & 7
The New Transportation Director’s Playbook: Leadership of Operations, Procurement and Personnel
Speaker: Keba Baldwin
What does it really take to lead a modern school transportation operation?
Beyond buses, routes, and schedules, today’s transportation director manages a complex system of people, procurement, technology, safety, communication, and public trust. Every decision has a ripple effect: a routing change can affect staffing, a staffing shortage can affect communication, a procurement decision can affect training, and a technology rollout can affect family confidence. This interactive session invites transportation leaders into a practical and candid conversation about the decisions that shape daily operations and long-term success. Participants will explore how directors move from constant reaction to strategic leadership, how procurement choices can strengthen or strain an operation, and how leadership remains the foundation of every transportation system. Rather than a traditional lecture, this session will use probing questions, shared experiences, and real-world scenarios to examine common challenges, including staffing shortages, vendor decisions, route reliability, employee morale, parent expectations, technology implementation, and operational accountability.
Attendees will leave with practical questions to take back to their teams, a clearer framework for decision-making, and tangible action items they can apply in their own transportation departments.
4:15 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. | Naples 1 & 2
Effective Performance Evaluations
Speaker: Denny Coughlin
Performance Evaluations are one of the best tools to recognize good performance and improve poor performance. Unfortunately, evaluations are often not on a scheduled basis and are used universally for multiple positions. You will understand how to make effective performance evaluations to constructively improve the culture and performance of the
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Propane autogas helps school districts lower fuel and maintenance costs while reducing the impact of diesel and gasoline price swings.
Conference Schedule
workforce. We will explore the elements to include in the evaluation and the process to acquire data and accurate information. We will discuss the benefits and methods of receiving feedback during the process. Be assured that you will conduct performance evaluations different in the future than you have in the past.
4:15 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. | Naples 3 & 4
Budgeting in Uncertain Times: Navigating the Fiscal Cliff Without Losing Ground
Speaker: Ryan Hahn
The post-COVID financial safety net is gone. and for school transportation departments the reckoning is here. Federal relief dollars have dried up, bus prices have ballooned to at least $130,000 for diesel buses and to well over $500,000 for electric vehicles, and fleet replacement cycles that once ran 12 years are quietly stretching to 18 or 20. Meanwhile, fuel costs, driver wages, parts, and the pressure to modernize with routing software, cameras, and telematics show no sign of slowing down.
In this session, former transportation director and chief business officer Ryan Hahn of Strategic School Consulting will help attendees understand the full scope of today’s budget environment — and what to do about it. Ryan will walk through how the cost squeeze compounds across fleet, staffing, and technology; how to frame deferred maintenance in terms leadership will actually hear and how to make smart prioritization decisions when every dollar is spoken for. Whether your district is urban, suburban, or rural, you’ll leave with a clearer picture of what’s coming and practical strategies for managing through it.
4:15 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. | Naples 6 & 7
Building a Culture of Safety for Young Riders & Students with Disabilities
Speaker: Alex Robinson
School buses are the safest form of ground transportation, but often the consistency of that safety is challenging with the needs of our youngest aged and most fragile riders with disabilities. This session will explore the training, communication and operational techniques required to ensure safety across the board no matter the age.
6 P.M. – 8:30 P.M. | North Parking Lot
Ride & Drive + Live Technology Demonstrations
Sunday Evening Outdoor Experience at the Peppermill Resort – North Parking Lot, Reno, Nevada
Join us for an unforgettable evening under the Reno sky as we kick off the Green Bus Summit and Bus Technology Summit with an all-in-one outdoor experience blending innovation, connection, and fun.
Explore the latest in clean transportation at our Ride & Drive showcase, where you can experience cutting-edge electric, propane, and low-emission school buses from Blue Bird, IC Bus, RIDE, Thomas Built Buses and the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC).
At the same time, dive into the Bus Technology Showcase—a dynamic, hands-on opportunity to see live demos and connect directly with experts from Zonar, BusPatrol, Transfiner, and Tyler Technologies. Ask questions, explore solutions, and get a closer look at the tools transforming student transportation.
Conference Schedule
The evening also features a vibrant networking atmosphere with tabletop displays, delicious food and drinks, interactive games, and a live DJ. It’s the perfect way to learn, connect, and celebrate with peers—all in one exciting outdoor event.
MONDAY, JULY 13
8 A.M. – 8:15 A.M. | Capri Ballroom
Peter J. Grandolfo Memorial Award of Excellence
Presentation
This dignified award, in its 19th year, recognizes a school transportation professional who exhibits exemplary service on behalf of the nation’s school children, especially those with disabilities. Named after the late Chicago Public Schools transportation director and NAPT board member.
Sponsored by
8:15 A.M. – 8:30 A.M. | Capri Ballroom
Welcome + Giveaway
Speaker: Tony Corpin
Join us to hear the results of the Ride & Drive Demonstration and enjoy a cup of coffee, courtesy of Zonar.
Coffee Provided by
8:30 A.M. – 8:50 A.M. | Capri Ballroom
TECH TALK: Reimagining Student Mobility
Speaker: Vivek Garg
It’s time to start thinking of student transportation as more than getting kids to and from school. See what happens when technology and AI capabilities focus first and foremost on the experience of the people affected by it. This session includes a product and technology showcase that you don’t want to miss.
Presented by
9 A.M. – 10:15 A.M. | Capri Ballroom
All About Them: Why Relentless Relevance Wins Keynote Speaker: Bruce Turkel
In a world filled with nonstop noise, endless options, and shrinking attention spans, the people and businesses that succeed are the ones who make their message instantly relevant.
In this fast-paced, entertaining keynote, Hall of Fame speaker and brand strategist Bruce Turkel shares how great brands, leaders, and organizations cut through the clutter by focusing less on themselves and more on what truly matters to their customers. Through stories, humor, and real-world examples from companies you know, Bruce reveals why the key to standing out today is understanding one simple idea: it’s all about them. It’s remembering—it’s All About Them.
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Conference Schedule
10:15 A.M. – 11:00 A.M. | Naples 6 & 7
Green Bus Summit: Proactive Fleet Management: Using Tools and Data to Stay Ahead
Speakers: Chad Duncan & Matt Milewski
In today’s evolving transportation landscape, staying ahead of maintenance issues and operational challenges requires more than reactive fixes—it starts with the right foundation. Join IC Bus as we explore how proactive fleet management combines smart vehicle spec’ing with connected data, telematics, and vehicle health insights to optimize performance from day one.
This session will cover how aligning vehicle specifications to your route demands, driver needs, and maintenance capabilities can reduce downtime and improve long-term reliability. Attendees will also learn how leveraging real-time data enables transportation leaders to anticipate issues, streamline maintenance, and extend vehicle life—keeping fleets safe, efficient, and always ready.
Presented by
10:15 A.M. – 11:00 A.M. | Naples 1 & 2
BTS Lab & Demo with SafeFleet: From Chaos to Clarity: Modernizing School Transportation with AI-Powered Safety Technology
Moderator: Lori Jetha
Panelists: Joe Allen, Chris Fox, Julian Jimenez & Jeff Obechina
Illegal passings, parent concerns, driver coaching needs— transportation teams face real challenges every day. In this dynamic session, Safe Fleet experts walk through three, realworld scenarios and show how AIenabled safety technologies reduce incident investigation time from hours to minutes, help alert students to danger, and avoid tragedy at the bus stop. Learn how districts can move from today’s reactive workflows to tomorrow’s connected, proactive safety ecosystem—starting with the equipment already on your buses.
Presented by
10:15 A.M. – 11:00 A.M. | Naples 3 & 4
BTS Lab & Demo with Tyler Technologies
Speaker: Weston Bartlett
Step into the spotlight for Tyler Feud — AI Edition, a Family Feud-style game where transportation meets artificial intelligence. This interactive session combines friendly competition with real-world discussions about how AI is transforming school transportation operations, routing, communication, reporting, and decision-making.
Presented by
11:15 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. | Naples 6 & 7
Green Bus Summit Session: What’s Driving Our Product: Engineering Trust Through Performance, Dependability, and Innovation
Conference Schedule
Speakers: Matt McClure, Chris Karlin, Bahar Konak & Nicole Wheeldon
Cummins delivers the proven performance and innovation school districts depend on to keep students moving every day. This session will discuss our latest solutions for school bus and how you can continue to depend on Cummins going forward.
Presented by
11:15 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. | Naples 1 & 2
BTS Lab & Demo with School Radio: Communications Today — The Importance of Staying Connected
Speakers: Marty Savino and David Weber School-Radio can provide instant connectivity almost anywhere, virtually instantly with encrypted PTT over multi-carrier data networks. FCC Type-acceptance, PTCRB certification, and carrier certification ensure that you are always connected. Managed Services options allow for tight budgets, and Interoperability connects School-Radio with your existing radio network.
Speakers: Jeff Lanier, Don Owens, David Payne, & Thomas Polan.
Where we’re going on hardware, apps, and integrations — modernizing every layer of the Synovia platform in 2026.
Presented by
12:15 P.M. – 1:15 P.M. | Capri Ballroom
Lunch & Learn Leadership Panel Discussion with Top Transportation Teams Winners
Panelists: Franklin Square Union Free School District (New York), Franklin Township Community School Corp. (Indiana), Hoover City Schools (Alabama) Pembroke Central School District (New York) Rockwall ISD (Texas), Wa-Nee Community Schools (Indiana)
This expert panel will discuss workplace culture and leadership to employee engagement, professional development, and operational excellence.
Presented by
1:20 P.M. – 2:05 P.M. | Naples 1 & 2
BTS Lab & Demo with Relay: It’s Not a Bus Problem. It’s a Communication Problem: Rethinking K-12 Student Transportation
Speakers: Emma Kauffman & Josh Mech
Conference Schedule
For transportation directors, nothing outranks getting every student to and from school safely — and most risk starts not in major emergencies, but in everyday situations that escalate. Join Relay’s Emma Kauffman and Josh Mech for a practical look at how real-time communication, location awareness, and instant alerting help districts prevent routine issues from becoming emergencies. The session will cover how leading transportation teams connect drivers, dispatchers, and campus staff across the entire district — and why the strongest safety systems don’t require the biggest budgets or new infrastructure.
Presented by
1:20 P.M. – 2:05 P.M. | Naples 3 & 4
BTS Lab & Demo with AlphaRoute: Funding Uncertainty Is Rewriting the Rules
Speaker: John Hanlon
John Hanlon, CEO of AlphaRoute, brings a unique perspective rooted in true frontline experience. As the former COO of Boston Public Schools, he knows firsthand that when the budget math stops working, legacy routing strategies fall short. John is now pioneering the use of conversational AI to solve complex operational challenges. He will reveal how transportation leadership can respond to difficult financial questions quickly and confidently.
Presented by
1:20 P.M. – 2:05 P.M. | Naples 6 & 7
BTS Lab & Demo with HopSkipDrive: Reactive to Proactive: Revolutionizing Student Transportation Safety
Speaker: Joseph Brumfield
Many transportation teams spend 95% of their time solving transportation for the 5% of their students that represent the highest operational complexity —the complex IEP requirements and increasing last-minute McKinney-Vento transportation needs. In these high-stakes scenarios, low visibility can lead to a reactive stance that increases district friction, creates safety gaps, and impacts student well-being. This session will explore a modern approach to these hurdles, shifting the focus from reactive problemsolving to proactive safety and operational control, by analyzing driver vetting and care standards, behaviorbased telematics, and real-time data dashboards.
Presented by
2:20 P.M. – 3:05 P.M. | Naples 1 & 2
School Bus Lap/Shoulder Belts, California’s 20 Year Journey
Speaker: Ron Kinney
This session will discuss the results of California’s school bus crash and passenger injury data beginning with the 2004/2005 school year through 2024, with specific focus on the 20 years since lap/shoulder belts began appearing incrementally on all new California school buses.
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Ÿ Safe and legal to use while driving with tac tile buttons and handheld mic for eyes- on-the -road operation
Ÿ Industr y-leading audio quality with AI-based noise cancellation and loud speaker volume for noisy buses
Ÿ Safety features include emergenc y call button, speeding alarms, and driver fatigue noti�cations
Ÿ Built in Bluetooth for hands-free audio accessories
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Conference Schedule
Participants will hear that lap/shoulder/belt are just one of the contributing factors in reducing pupil passenger injuries on school buses.
2:20 P.M. – 3:05 P.M. | Naples 3 & 4
Safe by Choice, Not Just by Law: Why OSHA Compliance Is Smart Policy for School Districts
Speaker: Jeff Cassell
Public school districts occupy an unusual gray area in workplace safety law — as governmental entities, they are generally exempt from federal OSHA requirements that private school bus contractors must follow to the letter. But exemption from a rule is not the same as exemption from risk, and the hazards facing school bus technicians and drivers — from chemical exposure and lockout/tagout failures to bloodborne pathogens and heavy equipment — don’t disappear because a district isn’t legally obligated to address them. This session makes the case that voluntarily adopting OSHA standards is one of the most practical and defensible risk management decisions a school district can make, reducing liability exposure, strengthening employee retention, and creating a culture of safety that protects the people who keep students moving every day. Attendees will explore which OSHA standards are most relevant to maintenance facilities and driver operations, how to conduct a practical gap assessment against those standards, and how to build administrative support for compliance efforts that go beyond what the law requires. Whether your operation is managed in-house or through a contractor, you’ll leave with a clearer understanding of where your vulnerabilities are and what a proactive safety program actually looks like in practice.
2:20 P.M. – 3:05 P.M. | Naples 6 & 7
Building a Culture That Sticks
Speaker: Jim Schiffler
Learn why good drivers leave and how to build an organizational culture that actually retains them. This practical session covers the real cost of turnover, how to create trust, close the recognition gap and simple strategies you can start using immediately.
3:20 P.M. – 4:20 P.M. | Naples 1 & 2
Defensive Driving in an Increasingly Autonomous World
Speakers: Sandy Dillman & Rosalyn Vann-Jackson
This breakout session will take a “back to basics” look at defensive driving while recognizing the rapidly changing reality of distracted and autonomous vehicles sharing the road with school buses. Presenters will review core best practices for defensive driving and distracted driving, then connect those fundamentals to emerging technologies such as collision avoidance, cameras, and other onboard automation. The session will also explore the growing presence of autonomous and highly automated vehicles (including robo-taxis) and what their behavior means for school bus drivers operating around them. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of vehicle autonomy levels, how current and future systems interact with lane markings and roadway infrastructure, and where risks and limitations remain. Through real-world examples, videos, and audience
Conference Schedule
interaction, participants will walk away with practical strategies to strengthen their defensive driving curriculum and coach drivers to stay proactive in an increasingly automated traffic environment.
3:20 P.M. – 4:20 P.M. | Naples 3 & 4
Advocating for Resources: How to Get a Seat at the Table Before the Cuts Are Already Made
Speaker: Ryan Hahn
Transportation directors are often invisible inside their own organizations — until something goes wrong. Buses roll, routes run, and nobody in the cabinet suite thinks about the department until a driver shortage hits the news or a bus breaks down. That invisibility has a cost. When budget season arrives, departments that haven’t built relationships and made their case with data are the first to be cut. In this session, Ryan Hahn of Strategic School Consulting lays out a practical roadmap for advocacy at every level — inside your district, at the state capital, and on Capitol Hill. Drawing on his experience as a transportation director and chief business officer, Ryan will show you what data actually moves the needle with superintendents and CFOs, how to break out of reactive mode and position transportation as a strategic priority, and what effective state and federal advocacy looks like in an era of uncertain funding. Whether you’ve never called a legislator or you’re a seasoned budget advocate looking to sharpen your approach, this session will give you the tools to speak the language of leadership and make your department’s case with confidence.
3:20 P.M. – 4:20 P.M. | Naples 6 & 7
The Mental Fatigue of Driving School Buses
Speakers: Keba Baldwin with Cor’Darius “Mr. Bus Driver” Jones School bus drivers are trusted every day with the safety of children, yet the mental toll of split shifts, double routes, extended hours, insufficient recovery time is pushing drivers to their limits — and in some cases, out of the profession entirely. Then there is ongoing student behavior to address and, in many cases, a lack of interest from school administrators in backing up school bus driver enforcement of the rules. In this candid fireside chat, STN Transportation Director of the Year Keba Baldwin of Prince George’s County Schools in Maryland and bus driver and social media advocate Cor’Darius Jones of Escambia County Public Schools in Florida pull back the curtain on what fatigue really looks like from both sides of the operation — the manager trying to keep routes covered and the driver trying to keep showing up. Together they explore how chronic exhaustion erodes performance, strains morale, and quietly drives turnover in an industry already struggling with staffing shortages. Attendees will come away with practical strategies for building a workplace culture where drivers feel safe saying they need a break, where scheduling practices protect rather than deplete, and where wellness is treated as a safety issue — not a personal one. Whether you’re a director working to retain good people or a driver advocate looking for language to bring to leadership, this session offers an honest, solutions-focused conversation that the school transportation industry needs to have.
Wonderland of Ideas Tradeshow + Networking Reception – Day 1
Enjoy an evening of awe, wonder, fun and valuable networking connections. This special event blends business with enchantment, providing the perfect atmosphere to unwind, network, and foster meaningful relationships with colleagues, partners, and new contacts. This dynamic event is your gateway to discovering cutting-edge products, services, and solutions that will take your transportation operations to the next level. Connect with top vendors, explore new technologies, and get hands-on with the latest in transportation solutions.
TUESDAY, JULY 14
8 A.M. – 8:30 A.M. | Capri Ballroom State of the Industry + Giveaways
Speakers: Tony Corpin & Ryan Gray Coffee Sponsored by
8:30 A.M. – 9:30 A.M. | Capri Ballroom General Session: Military Inspired Leadership in Student Transportation
Moderator: Ryan Gray
Panelists: Bernando Brown, Darryl Dotson & Al Karam
This session translates proven military leadership principles into practical strategies for student transportation operations. Attendees will learn how to build readinessdriven systems, develop leaders at every level, and create consistent operational performance in high-pressure environments where safety and reliability are critical. This session focuses on real-world application, not theory. Participants will leave with clear strategies to move from reactive to prepared operations.
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Conference Schedule
10 A.M. – 1 P.M. | Tuscany Ballroom Trade Show + Lunch – Day 2
Over 1,000 school transportation professionals will attend the STN EXPO Trade Show, including manufacturers, OEMs and suppliers offering new and existing products, solutions and services that help transporters perform their jobs better and more efficiently. These exhibiting companies will connect with professionals who transport children of all ages, sizes and distinctions, and who prepare specifications for products and services, make final decisions on purchases, and are responsible for recommending purchases.
1:30 P.M. – 2:30 P.M. | Naples 6 & 7
General Session: Beyond ChatGPT: The AI Revolution in Student Transportation
Moderator: Ryan Gray
Panelists: Richard Jimenez, Timothy Purvis, GP Singh & Rosalyn Vann-Jackson
Artificial intelligence is already embedded in routing, telematics, cameras, and backoffice tools but most transportation teams still see it as a mystery, a threat or simply “that ChatGPT thing.” In this opening panel, transportation leaders and technologists will cut through the hype to define what AI actually is (and isn’t) today, how vendors are using it, and what it really means for dispatch, fleet management, safety, HR and frontline staff. Panelists will discuss policy and safeguard considerations, strategies for working with IT and vendors, and ways to turn AI into a timesaving thought partner instead of a jobtaking fear factor. Attendees will leave with concrete ideas and questions to bring back to their districts and operations. Immediately following this panel, participants will move into focused breakout sessions for deeper dives into AI used as a decision-making tool for bell times, budgeting, dispatch, fleet management, personnel productivity, and safety.
2:45 P.M. – 3:30 P.M. | Naples 1 & 2
Using AI Decision-Making in Dispatch
Speaker: GP Singh
This breakout explores how AI can support smarter, faster decisions in the dispatch office without replacing the critical human judgment of dispatchers. We’ll look at how AI tools can help with real-time route adjustments, handling lastminute absences, managing field trips, and communicating changes to drivers and families. The discussion will also highlight practical guardrails—what to automate versus what must stay in human hands—and how to work with IT to ensure data security and reliability. Attendees will hear concrete examples of prompts, workflows, and use cases that reduce manual effort and improve responsiveness. The session is designed to be interactive, giving dispatchers and leaders a chance to share current practices, ask questions, and leave with prompts and ideas they can try immediately.
2:45 P.M. – 3:30 P.M. | Naples 3 & 4
Using AI Decision-Making for Personnel Productivity
Speaker: Richard Jimenez
This breakout focuses on how AI can support personnel decisions, productivity, and professional growth across the transportation team. We’ll look at how leaders are using AI to draft communications, build training materials, create checklists and SOPs, and analyze staffing patterns— while still maintaining human oversight and judgment. The session will emphasize moving beyond “using AI like Google” toward treating it as a thought partner for problemsolving and decision support. We’ll also discuss safeguards: ethical use, bias, protecting employee and student data, and the importance of clear district policies and training before AI is widely adopted. Attendees will leave with concrete examples of prompts and workflows they can use to save time, support staff, and elevate the strategic work of their departments.
2:45 P.M. – 3:30 P.M. | Naples 6 & 7
Using AI Decision-Making in Budgeting
Speaker: Tim Purvis
This breakout explores how AI can support smarter, more transparent budgeting decisions in student transportation. We’ll discuss how AI tools can help analyze historical spending, forecast fuel and labor costs, model “what if” scenarios (such as adding a route tier or changing bell times), and surface savings opportunities without sacrificing service quality. The session will emphasize guardrails around data privacy, security, and accuracy— how to work with IT and business services to ensure that budget models are grounded in reliable, districtapproved data. We’ll also cover how to use AI outputs to communicate more clearly with superintendents, boards, and unions, turning complex budget scenarios into understandable options. Participants will leave with practical examples of prompts and workflows they can use to build budget narratives, compare scenarios quickly, and support more strategic financial planning for their operations.
3:45 P.M. – 4:30 P.M. | Naples 1 & 2
Using AI Decision-Making in Fleet Management
Speaker: GP Singh
This breakout explores how AI can help districts make better decisions about fleet health, lifecycle planning, and daytoday operations. We’ll discuss using AI to interpret telematics data, maintenance histories, and fuel/energy use to prioritize work, predict failures, and improve uptime. The session will also cover longrange planning questions— such as replacement cycles, EV readiness, and rightsizing the fleet—and how AI can help model different scenarios. Participants will hear about common vendor claims around “AIenabled” systems, what questions to ask, and how to work with IT to validate data security and integration. The conversation will be practical and exampledriven, including prompts, with time for attendees to share their own fleet challenges and explore how AI might help.
Conference Schedule
3:45 P.M. – 4:30 P.M. | Naples 3 & 4
Using AI Decision-Making in Risk Mitigation
Speaker: Rosalyn Vann-Jackson
This breakout focuses on using AI to inform bell time models and scheduling decisions that impact transportation, instruction, and labor. We’ll discuss how AI can help simulate different bell schedules, model route impacts, and surface tradeoffs around ride times, tiering, staffing, and fleet utilization. The session will emphasize working closely with IT and district leadership to use secure, district-approved data sources and to keep AI as a decision-support tool—not the final decision maker. We’ll also address how to communicate AI-informed scenarios to school boards, unions, and community stakeholders. Participants will leave with examples of questions and prompts to ask AI so they can quickly test “what if” models and bring clearer options to their leadership teams.
3:45 P.M. – 4:30 P.M. | Naples 6 & 7
AI Decision-Making to Build Master Bell Schedules
Speaker: Tim Purvis
This breakout focuses on using AI to inform bell time models and scheduling decisions that impact transportation, instruction, and labor. We’ll discuss how AI can help simulate different bell schedules, model route impacts, and surface tradeoffs around ride times, tiering, staffing, and fleet utilization. The session will emphasize working closely with IT and district leadership to use secure, district-approved data sources and to keep AI as a decision-support tool—not the final decision maker. We’ll also address how to communicate AI-informed scenarios to school boards, unions, and community stakeholders. Participants will leave with examples of questions and prompts to ask AI so they can quickly test “what if” models and bring clearer options to their leadership teams.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 15
8 A.M. – 12 P.M. | Naples 6 & 7
The Best of Dick and Pete Show
Presenters: Dick Fischer & Pete Baxter
Join NAPT Hall of Fame leaders Dick Fischer and Pete Baxter for a compelling executive session on safety leadership, organizational learning, and risk governance in school transportation. Drawing on the powerful themes of “Mind the Gap” and “RMS Titanic.” This program presents a comprehensive school transportation safety training program emphasizing lessons learned from the “Mind the Gap” to the “Titanic tragedy” to highlight the dangers of overconfidence, ignoring warning signs, and being unprepared for emergencies, while providing detailed training modules for frontline staff and leadership on safe practices, communication, accountability, and continuous improvement to foster a strong safety culture and protect every child on every trip.
Conference Registration & Check in at Tuscany Registration Desk
• Thursday, July 9 | 5 P.M. – 7 P.M.
• Friday, July 10 | 7 A.M. – 4 P.M.
• Saturday, July 11 | 6:30 A.M. – 4 P.M.
• Sunday, July 12 | 7:30 A.M. – 5 P.M.
• Monday, July 13 | 7:30 A.M. – 6 P.M.
• Tuesday, July 14 | 8 A.M. – 12 P.M.
Peppermill Resort | Reno, NV
July 9-15, 2026
NORTH PARKING LOT
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