CINCINNATI — The New Hampshire School Transportation Association (NHSTA) recognized more than 100 First Student drivers from across the state for their safe driving records and exceptional performance as professional drivers.
Each driver was honored for his or her years of service without a preventable accident, ranging from five to 35 years of safe driving. The drivers were honored at NHTSA’s annual School Bus State Inspections Awards.
“It is clear these drivers place the safety of the students they transport above all else, and we are pleased the NHSTA recognizes the great work the drivers do each and every day,” said Jim Castelli, senior vice president of operations for First Student. “We are proud of these drivers and their tremendous commitment to safety.”
Of the 103 First Student drivers receiving awards, 14 were honored for 20 or more years of safe drivers. Laurette Cillo of First Student’s Merrimack location and Beverly Redington of North Hampton were acknowledged for 35 years of safe driving, while Mary Lambert, also of North Hampton, reached 30 years.
Drivers achieving 25 years of safe driving include: Betty Cayer – North Sutton; Janine Fiers – North Hampton; Pat Haskell – Belmont; and Matthew Seaver – Tilton. Those recognized for 20 years of safe driving include: Tammy Alden – Belmont; Susan Brobst – Merrimack; Patricia Bureau – Merrimack; Lynn Calvino – North Sutton; Linda Dwyer – Merrimack; Kimberly Peck – Merrimack; and Alan Rioux – Merrimack
Additionally, six drivers were honored for 15 years, 23 recognized for 10 years and 60 honored for five years of safe driving.
First Student said all of its drivers nationwide receive more than 50 hours of training before driving school buses. The training consists of classroom, behind the-wheel and safety orientation training on such topics as student behavioral management and bus safety. In addition to state and school district-mandated training, First Student also conducts monthly in-service meetings throughout the year to discuss various safety topics, as well as to review company policies and procedures.
