Student’s HALO technology platform, along with use of Samsara’s AI-enabled dash cams, helps identify potential problems while enhancing awareness and reinforcing safe behaviors.
Communication and Support Working with drivers in this area calls for a supportive
approach. “You’ve got to create an environment where drivers
feel comfortable saying, ‘I’m too tired today,’ without worrying about getting in trouble,” Faust noted, adding that other steps include keeping an eye on schedules, limiting how much extra work one person is taking on and planning ahead for busy times with fall and spring athletics. “Even small things like checking in with drivers regularly can make a difference.” In the process, open communication with drivers is a
must, Perez said. “Strong, trust-based relationships be- tween leadership and drivers are essential so drivers feel comfortable speaking up when they are tired or need support.” He noted that from an operational standpoint, con- sistent check-ins throughout the day can make a
meaningful difference as can structured scheduling practices that prioritize rest and reduce unnecessary variability. Perez also advised leaders to fully leverage available
safety tools, such as alerts and AI-driven monitoring systems to help identify potential issues earlier and sup- port coaching in real time. “Ultimately, the most effective fatigue management
approach layers people, process and technology togeth- er, creating a system that not only responds to risk but actively helps prevent it,” he said. One helpful step, Hickey advised, is to shore up staff in the middle of the day. “When midday shuttles need to be covered, teach other drivers to run these routes so more staff are able to help cover all the extras,” he suggested. “Some drivers are unable to or unwilling to do midday work, but encourage others to do field trips and shuttles.” A measure Jones would like to see adopted nation-
wide is a move to a four-day work week. He said two days off simply isn’t enough to recover. “We try to spend all Saturday catching up on what we couldn’t get done Monday through Friday, and then when Sunday comes it feels like Monday is here in a few hours,” he said. “Be-
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56 School Transportation News • JULY 2026
©2026 Auto-Jet Muffler Corporation
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