November 3:
November 3:
PDS 304: Best Practices When Collecting, Analyzing and Using Data
The Professional Development Series( PDS) 304 course, led by Robert Feinberg, CPTS, Transportation Director for Deer Creek School District( OK), provided attendees with a practical, four-hour deep dive into how data can strengthen decision-making across transportation operations. Designed for leaders seeking to build more efficient, accountable, and proactive departments, the session walked participants step-by-step through the full data lifecycle: identifying what to measure, collecting it accurately, understanding what it means, and applying it to real operational challenges. Attendees then explored practical collection strategies, including leveraging software systems, integrating manual logs, and improving internal communication to ensure accuracy. Feinberg stressed the importance of consistency and standardization, noting that even the most powerful analytics lose value when the underlying data is incomplete or inconsistent. A significant portion of the workshop focused on turning raw information into actionable insights. Using real-world examples, Feinberg demonstrated how patterns in data can reveal root causes of inefficiencies, support staffing and budgeting decisions, and provide clear evidence when communicating with district leadership.
PDS 901: School Transportation Security Assessment
The PDS 901: School Transportation Security Assessment course provided attendees with a comprehensive, four-hour exploration of how to evaluate and strengthen security across every component of a transportation operation. Led by Jennifer Norman, CDPT, Associate Director and Safety & Compliance Officer for Student Transport / Woodward Academy( GA), the session equipped participants with a structured, practical framework for conducting thorough security assessments tailored specifically to school transportation environments. A significant portion of the course focused on identifying vulnerabilities and determining levels of risk. Norman walked attendees through how to evaluate facility access points, key control, bus parking layouts, lighting, visitor management, and emergency preparedness. She reinforced the importance of reviewing driver training, incident reporting protocols, and continuity-of-operations plans to ensure staff are confident and capable during emergencies. The session also highlighted the necessity of district-wide collaboration. Norman discussed how transportation teams must work closely with school administrators, law enforcement, and community partners to create an effective and coordinated safety plan.
Transportation Technology: From Needs Assessment to Implementation
In this workshop, transportation leaders explored how to evaluate, select, and successfully integrate modern technology solutions into district operations. Moderated by Teena Mitchell, CDPT, CSNT, Transportation Coordinator for Greenville County Schools( SC), the session brought together a well-rounded panel of experts: David Crumm, Administrator of Operations for Ohio County Schools( WV); Adam James, CDPT, Director of Transportation for Greenville County Schools( SC); David Poag, CDPT, Director of Transportation for Spartanburg School District Six( SC); and Arnold Byrd, Sales Enablement Specialist with Transfinder. The discussion began with the critical first step in any technology initiative: conducting a clear and thorough needs assessment. Panelists shared strategies for identifying operational pain points, from routing inefficiencies and communication gaps to staffing challenges, data inconsistencies, and outdated systems. They emphasized involving multiple stakeholders early to ensure the chosen solution addresses real district-level needs. From there, the workshop moved into evaluating the rapidly expanding world of transportation technologies. Panelists compared tools related to routing, GPS and telematics, parent communication, ridership verification, and data analytics. They encouraged districts to look beyond features and focus on usability, scalability, and longterm support.
Recognizing and Responding to Active Threats
The“ Recognizing and Responding to Active Threats” workshop at the NAPT ACTS 2025 Conference delivered a direct, urgent, and deeply practical look at school bus security. Led by Jim Levine, CEO of S. T. A. R. T.( School Transportation Active-Threat Response Training), the session equipped transportation professionals with the skills and mindset needed to recognize early warning signs, de‐escalate conflict, and respond effectively when violence occurs on or near a school bus. Levine opened by emphasizing a truth many in pupil transportation know all too well: school bus drivers are a critical but often overlooked part of school safety. He urged attendees to empower drivers, advocate for resources, and ensure that funding designated for transportation security stays within transportation.“ If you allow the school district to take control of the grant,” he warned,“ you will not see the money … You have to be that person that says,‘ No.’ This money can be used for bus safety.” A core theme of the workshop was Juvenile Behavior Intelligence, which aids in understanding behavioral red flags that may signal escalating risk. Levine illustrated the importance of noticing changes in routine, demeanor, or behavior, referencing real‐world tragedies where early signs were present but unrecognized or unreported. Even subtle shifts, he emphasized, can be meaningful:“ We see a change in behavior: that’ s a red flag warning sign. You absolutely have to act on that.” Participants also examined the broader threat landscape. One attendee stressed that school buses remain vulnerable targets: isolated, predictable, and carrying large groups of students each day. While catastrophic incidents have been rare, speakers warned that this should not be mistaken for safety.“ It’ s just that the terrorists haven’ t figured out that we’ re there yet,” one said, underscoring the need for proactive preparation. Levine reinforced de‐escalation as the preferred first response to conflict, but also detailed response options for when violence erupts, focusing on restoring safety for both students and drivers.
Meeting Student Occupant Protection Needs in All Types of School Vehicles
This session provided transportation professionals with a thorough and practical overview of how to ensure safety for every student, regardless of the vehicle or their unique needs. Led by Sue Shutrump, President of Susan Shutrump Consulting, LLC, the session explored the principles behind school bus occupant protection, the limitations of traditional safety systems, and strategies for extending protection to all passengers.
20 | SCHOOL-BUSRIDE. COM | NOVEMBER 2025