October 2026

The October issue explores how school transportation leaders are using technology, training and strong leadership to improve safety and operations. Learn how collision-avoidance systems and video technology are helping prevent crashes. Hear from this year’s Top Transportation Team award winners at STN EXPO West on the role of communication and leadership. Discover how districts are navigating CDL testing and certification bottlenecks. Plus, get insights into the future of student transportation following changes at the U.S. Department of Education. Finally, preview what’s ahead at the Transporting Students With Disabilities & Special Needs Conference next month in Frisco, Texas.

Cover design by Kimber Horne. Photo courtesy of Thomas Built Buses.

Cover Story

Training for a Safer Start
School districts are finding ways to navigate CDL testing and certification bottlenecks to keep qualified drivers behind the wheel.

Features

Avoiding Collisions
Collision-avoidance systems and video camera technology are giving school transportation teams new tools to identify hazards and improve safety, while districts weigh the costs of adopting these technologies.

Leadership Strategies
Communication and strong leadership continue to play a key role in effective transportation operations, as this year’s Top Transportation Team award winners share the strategies behind their success.

Gearing Up for TSD Conference
Get a preview of the sessions, networking opportunities and other events planned for the Transporting Students With Disabilities & Special Needs Conference in Frisco, Texas.

Special Reports

NSTA Contractor of the Year Shares Success Secrets
B.R. Williams of New Jersey credits its employees and people-focused approach for helping the company earn NSTA Contractor of the Year honors.

What Happens Now?
Experts examine the operational and funding considerations school districts need to understand as the U.S. Department of Education undergoes major restructuring.

Conversations

Ad Index

Editor’s Take by Ryan Gray
The Human Element of Collision Avoidance

Publisher’s Corner by Tony Corpin
Learn. Network. Grow. Repeat.

Thought Leader by Linda Bluth
What to Do When a Supervisor Directs You to Do Something You Know Is Wrong?

September 2026

The September issue explores how technology is reshaping school transportation, from AI and connected tools to video systems, routing...

Buyer’s Guide 2026

Find the latest vehicle production data and budget reports, industry trends, and contact information for state, national and federal...

Poll

Should taxpayer-funded school transportation be provided to students who choose to attend a private or independently operated school?
50 votes
VoteResults