HONOR ROLL Portee’s work has earned her both local and
nationwide notice. She has been recognized by DPS for exceptional customer service in eight different years and was presented with the Leadership Lamp Award in 2014 by then-Superintendent Tom Boasberg. She received the Colorado State Pupil Transportation Association President Award while at the helm of that organization. And in 2013, School Bus Fleet magazine named her one of “14 Phenomenal Women in Transportation.” Portee gives back by volunteering her time at local and
regional events and committee meetings. Additionally, by staying involved in discussions about the city transit system, she can better assist DPS transportation, she explained. She is co-chair of the Denver Women’s Commission that
promotes social, economic and political equality of life, and president of the Colorado Black Women of Political Action Endowment Fund that encourages female African- American involvement in the state political process.
upgrade bridges, and repair and expand streets. “Tey’re the same streets we navigate and I have to plan around,” she adds. Portee characterizes her leadership style as hands-on. She said she builds cross-functional teams by training members in different aspects of departmental operations. Tis breeds a greater depth of understanding so employees can better assist anyone who needs help, whether it’s someone in district administration or a parent. Tis team mentality starts from the moment she begins
onboarding new employees. “I encourage anyone who’s going to be in my department to go ride a school bus,” she noted. “I ask them to set up a meeting and go visit with all my directors, to understand how they can better interact with them and best support them.” Portee also credits DPS administration with being at-
tentive to her perspectives.” Together, they ensure that “the educational day doesn’t stop when the bell rings, but when the student makes it home,” she said. “As we think about our district and how we can best meet the need of the students, we’re not sticking to the standard transportation model. We are really trying to think very strategically,” she added. Tese collaborative efforts have resulted in DPS expe- riencing a 30 percent enrollment increase over the past
Nicole for winning Transportation Director of the Year!
Knowing when and where each student gets on and off the school bus is vital to Denver Public Schools. CI Solutions has made it possible for DPS to enhance our +Pass program with increased awareness and life skills of using a pass to scan on and off the bus. CI Solutions supports DPS in delivering peace of mind, enhanced customer solutions and increased efficiency to our families.” - Nicole Portee, Denver Public Schools
800-599-7385 |
www.cardintegrators.com
44 School Transportation News • NOVEMBER 2018 CI
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