Next, the School Bus Driver Training & Safety Award, sponsored by IC Bus, honored excellence in driver training programs. The award went to Sherri Zulick, training coordinator for Maine School Administrative District 6. Zulick was celebrated for developing an exemplary training program and strengthening driver readiness and safety across her district. The award also includes a grant to support ongoing enhancements to training initiatives. One of the ceremony’ s most powerful moments came with the presentation of the Heroism Award, sponsored by Blue Bird. This honor recognizes individuals whose courageous actions directly save lives. The audience rose in applause as bus driver Crystal Foster
Stephanie Walker, CDPT, CSPT, CSNT, CPTS, was honored with one of the Distinguished Service awards.
Sherri Zulick won the School Bus Driver Training & Safety Award, presented by IC Bus.
Denny Coughlin( right) won one of the Distinguished Service awards at this year’ s conference.
Crystal Foster and Joclyn Johnson won the Heroism Award, sponsored by Blue Bird.
in transporting students with disabilities. The 2025 recipient was Katherine“ KC” Michael, CSPT, CPTS, Special Needs Route Supervisor at Fayette County Schools( GA). Michael was honored for her dedication to student support, her leadership in specialized transportation operations, and her commitment to high-quality service for students with unique needs. The ceremony concluded with the prestigious Distinguished Service Award, which recognizes exemplary service to NAPT and the profession at state and national levels. This year’ s honorees were Stephanie Walker, CDPT, CSPT, CSNT, CPTS, Transportation Coordinator for Habersham County Schools( GA), and Denny Coughlin, owner of School Bus Training Company, LLC. Walker expressed heartfelt appreciation for the recognition, noting how honored she felt among peers she considers friends. Coughlin reflected on his nearly five decades in student transportation, sharing gratitude for the opportunity to teach, mentor, and contribute to the field, and expressing pride in the industry he helped shape. From lifelong advocates to everyday heroes, each recipient exemplifies the spirit of NAPT and the mission to keep students safe, supported, and thriving.
Katherine“ KC” Michael, CSPT, CPTS, won the Special Needs Transportation Award, sponsored by Q’ STRAINT.
and bus monitor Jocyln Johnson of Spartanburg District 6 were recognized for their lifesaving response to a house fire, during which they helped rescue children from danger. Their bravery drew an emotional and extended ovation from attendees and presenters alike. Following this was the Special Needs Transportation Award, sponsored by Q’ STRAINT. This award highlights exceptional service
Washington, D. C. Federal Update
The Washington, D. C., Federal Update at NAPT ACTS delivered a candid, detailed look at the shifting federal landscape and its far-reaching implications for student transportation. Led by Peter Mannella, NAPT’ s Public Policy Liaison, with closing insight from Molly McGee Hewitt, PhD, CAE, NAPT CEO and Executive Director, the session emphasized both the challenges ahead and the essential role NAPT plays in navigating them.
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