COVER STORY: This annual edition dedicated to previewing the STN EXPO has also evolved into a look at the “greening” of the industry. A case in point is Houston ISD, which is not only utilizing alternative fuels but additional maintenance programs and operational enhancements to reduce the district’s carbon footprint. And with a stream of new vehicle options, such as the next-generation Blue Bird Propane-Powered Vision (pictured), school bus operators must be adept at identifying alt-fuel incentives. And how are rising diesel prices a part of this conversation?
TOP STORY
Fuel Costs: To Lock Down or Not is the Dilemma, and Gamble
SPECIAL REPORT
School Bus Drivers, ESL Students Roll Over the Language Barrier
HEADLINES
A Fuel-Saving, Carbon-Footprint-Reducing Option?
DERA Survives in 2012 But Without New Funding
News in Review: A Look Back Provides a Glimpse at What Might Be in Story
FEATURES
If the Puzzle Piece Fits…
This year’s STN EXPO is ‘Putting the Pieces Together’ for attendees with inspiring keynotes, exciting events and informative topics covering the industry’s hottest topics
Driven to Change
Incentive plans for alternative-fuel buses gets high-octane ratings
Districts Lining Up to Reduce Idling, Save Fuel
Districts are looking to keep costs down by ensuring that their fleets are saving fuel and the environment by reducing idling times
School Bus Diesel Versus School Bus CNG
Breaking down the operational considerations to assist decision making for fleets
‘Houston, We’re Going Green’
Seventh largest school district in the nation embraces environmentally-sound practices with alt fuels, GPS and shop innovations
ANALYSIS
For Consideration of Natural Gas School Buses
By Richard Kolodziej
Safe, Sustainable Student Transportation: Propane-Powered School Buses
By Brian Feehan
State-by-State Variation in Crossing Procedures, Part 2
By Ned Einstein
COLUMNS
First Take by Ryan Gray
Positive Thinking is Not Enough, But it’s a Start…
Editorial Desk by Stephane Babcock
It’s All in How You See It
