nology vendor Transfinder on site. She noted that last school year Rockwall ISD implemented Wayfinder and the team struggled with using the technology. This year, Transfinder representatives were on site to answer any questions. They viewed in real time the challenges the district was having with the tablets or the maps and were able to view the system internally and offer support. She noted that navigating the technology gap has been
a challenge, and she has been working to find a way to bridge the gap. “And this year we felt like we’ve bridged it more because we had hands on, where [drivers] were able to see what they were messing up or see what we can help fix. It doesn’t do any good to have all the bells and whistles if we don’t know how to use the whistles,” she said. Gardella said in her quarterly “Coffee with the Director”
chats, drivers have expressed interest in learning more about using technology. “Some of them don’t even know to use the QR code, but I’m asking them to use a tablet,” she said, adding that she also had flex trainers go on routes with the drivers to show them how to use the technology.
Pembroke Central School District in New York started its
first day last month. Transportation Director Julie Lawson said this year brought a lot of changes. “We have learned that we have to just roll with the punches. We, like every- one else, are facing driver shortages as well as many more special needs runs, but we are a team and we will make it work,” she said in anticipation of the first day. Lawson noted that drivers have come together, helping to provide input on runs and potential more successful routes. “We are proud of each other and we as a family are proud to have brought home our Top Trans- portation Team award,” she said. “We had to make some major changes to our routes, and I am proud of the fact that all of the drivers were so supportive giving me ideas, giving their input and making sure it was fair for all. “I know I’ve said this before, but I am so proud of our
department,” she continued. “When changes happen, my drivers adapt well. We have a group chat with all the drivers that we message back and forth, they labeled it bus family and that melts my heart.” ●
EVERY BUS — EVERY SEAT — COVERED.
School Bus Replacement Seat Covers Standard Seat Covers Belted Seat Covers
• Fits: Blue Bird • Thomas • IC • Collins • Attachment Options: Hook & Loop • J-Hook • Staple • Materials: Prevail • Kevlar • 42 oz Vinyl • Available in All Colors
View Styles & Colors Integrated Seat Covers
www.BESI-Inc.com | 800-543-8222 30 School Transportation News • OCTOBER 2026 Barrier Covers
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60
