The Minnesota School Bus Operators Association (MSBOA) awarded its 2013 Transportation Specialist Awards at its annual summer conference on June 10 in Grand Rapids to six school bus drivers from around the state for their exemplary service.
This year marked the 21st that the awards were given. The drivers were nominated by their supervisors for being the best of best in school transportation. The applications were judged on criteria such as years of service, dedication to safety, community service achievements, communication with school staff, and letters of recommendation from parents, co-workers, students and school staff.
The following drivers received awards:
- Annie Knapp, Faribault Transportation in Faribault, Minn.
- Josh Pensak, Voyageur Bus Company in Duluth, Minn.
- Brian Salmela, NorTran Inc. in Deer River, Minn.
- Mark Schjenken, NorTran Inc. in Deer River, Minn.
- Tracey Walker, Bluff Country School Bus Service Inc. in Lake City, Minn.
- Kyle Brown, Vision of Elk River, Inc. in Elk River, Minn.
In addition to the award, a $1,000 check was awarded in each driver’s name toward a scholarship fund for deserving youth in the school district they serve.
