onboard technology, peer mentoring programs and mi- cro-learning and ongoing refresher training. She said the transportation community will continue to see greater use of technology to speed up knowl- edge acquisition while reserving valuable instructor time for hands-on skills development. “We need to make it easier
for qualified candidates to enter the profession without com- promising safety or regulatory requirements,” she said. On the whole, Zamora predicts
that the future of effective driver training will be more personalized, practical and technology driven. She noted that historically, much of driver training focused on compli- ance and vehicle operation. While those elements remain essential, today’s training must also pre- pare drivers for student behavior management, special needs trans- portation, situational awareness, and customer interactions. “The future of driver training is not about reducing standards,” Zamora stressed. “It’s about re- moving inefficiencies.” To that end, her district is
exploring more flexible training models, including online learn- ing platforms, and district-based training programs that allow candidates to progress at their own pace.
Getting Best Results With or without the use of
advanced tech, well-designed training seems to be a must for keeping drivers at their best. To Vowell, that means going
beyond basic requirements for drivers, whether initially getting their CDL or are veteran drivers. “Set the standard higher than what is required,” he said. “Devise
48 School Transportation News • SEPTEMBER 2026
Simulation Specifics The training provided by
Texas’ Region 6 Education Service Center provides a complete range of semi- interactive driving simulation that can be used to prepare school bus drivers as well as those driving other types of vehicles. An extensive library of programs features computer-generated imagery to present realistic scenarios of situations faced in the field, but contained within a controlled, safe environment. • As described by program staff, benefits of simulation include “Hands-on” participant training/practice time increases.
•
Fully interactive systems allow participants to practice difficult maneuvers repeatedly until mastered and physical/mechanical conditions (such as shifting) can be extensively practiced.
• Potentially threatening situations and adverse weather/ road conditions are “experienced” in complete safety.
• Perceptual and cognitive skills are learned and practiced.
• Participant performance can be measured, recorded and assessed to provide guidelines for succeeding phases of driver training.
a plan throughout the year to utilize certified trainers to contin- uously provide training to drivers to keep them fresh.” For those considering adoption
of advanced training tech, Wilson advised viewing simulation or VR not as a luxury, but as an investment in safety and driver development. “If cost is a concern, explore
grants and funding opportuni- ties, and look for ways to partner with neighboring school districts, education service centers, or local public safety agencies,” she said. “Sharing equipment and training resources can make these tech- nologies much more affordable while maximizing their impact.” Shields argued against assum- ing that because you’ve always trained a certain way, it’s still the best way. “Take an honest look at your training program,” he said. That means asking whether it
truly prepares drivers for today’s transportation environment, not just to pass a test, but to safe- ly transport students, manage behavior, communicate with par- ents and campuses and represent your district professionally. It also pays to invest in updates
for instructors. “Professional development for trainers is one of the best invest- ments you can make because better trainers produce better drivers,” Shields said. He added that training should
be continued beyond a driver’s initial experience. “The strongest programs continue mentor- ing, coaching and investing in drivers throughout their careers,” Shields concluded. “That’s how you build confidence, improve retention and ultimately create a safer transportation system for students.” ●
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