Volume 8 ......April 2026
New Train‑the‑Trainer Video Series Now Available to STAI Members
STAI is excited to announce the launch of our new Train‑the‑Trainer Video Series, a valuable professional development resource designed to strengthen driver training programs across the state. The first video in this five‑part series is now available online, with additional videos to be released as the series continues.
This series is specifically designed to support trainers by providing consistent, high‑quality guidance to help them fully and effectively train drivers in training. The content focuses on best practices, expectations, and strategies that reinforce safe, thorough, and confident driver instruction.
The Train‑the‑Trainer Video Series is prepared and presented by Mike LaRocco, Reggie White, and Renee Dawson from the DOE Transportation Office, bringing their expertise and insight directly to STAI members. Their collaboration ensures the material is practical, relevant, and aligned with the standards that support student safety statewide.
How to Access the Series:
Once logged in as an STAI member, navigate to the Professional Development tab. There you will find a selection titled Train‑the‑Trainer Video Series, where the videos can be viewed at your convenience.
This new resource reflects STAI’s ongoing commitment to professional growth, consistency in training, and excellence in student transportation. Members are encouraged to begin exploring the series now and incorporate these tools into their local training programs.
The countdown is on for the 2026 STAI Annual Conference & Trade Show, happening June 23–25 at the Grand Wayne Convention Center. With registration now open, transportation professionals across the state are already making plans to attend three impactful days of learning, collaboration, and industry connection.
Guided by this year’s theme, SAFE26 – Safety, Awareness, Fleet Management, Excellence, the conference will spotlight practical ideas and proven strategies that support safe, efficient student transportation. Attendees can expect meaningful conversations, valuable insights, and a renewed focus on excellence in every aspect of our work.
Don’t forget to secure your stay at the Hilton at the Grand Wayne—conference hotel reservations are now available. Click the Hilton logo below to book your room and join us on the road to safer student transportation.
Whether you’re a long-time attendee or planning to join us for the first time, the 2026 STAI Annual Conference & Trade Show promises valuable education, meaningful networking, and opportunities to engage with industry partners who support student transportation excellence.
More details will be announced soon. Register today and be part of SAFE26. Members Sponsors
Celebrate Skill, Safety, and Excellence at the STAI Roadeo & Safety Competition
One of STAI’s most anticipated events of the year is just around the corner! The STAI Roadeo & Safety Competition will take place Saturday, June 20, at Brownsburg Schools, bringing together school transportation professionals from across Indiana for an exciting day dedicated to skill, safety, and excellence behind the wheel.
This annual event is a true celebration of the professionalism and dedication of school bus drivers. Participants compete in General Education and Special Needs divisions, tackling hands-on challenges that showcase precision driving, safety awareness, and real‑world problem‑solving skills. The Special Needs division features paired teams, emphasizing communication, teamwork, and student-centered safety.
More than a competition, the Roadeo is an opportunity to sharpen skills, build confidence, and connect with peers in a supportive and energetic environment. It reflects STAI’s ongoing commitment to training, professionalism, and the shared goal of keeping students safe every day.
Adding to the excitement, top performers from each division will earn the opportunity to advance to the National Competition, representing Indiana on a national stage and highlighting the high standards upheld by STAI members statewide.
Whether you’re competing, cheering on your colleagues, or supporting the event, the STAI Roadeo & Safety Competition is a powerful reminder of the pride, talent, and dedication within our school transportation community. Mark your calendar for Saturday, June 20, and join us in Brownsburg as safety meets skill and excellence takes the driver’s seat.
Honoring Technical Excellence at the 2026 STAI Technician/Mechanic Competition
STAI is proud to shine a spotlight on the skilled professionals who keep our fleets running safely and efficiently every day. The 2026 STAI Technician/Mechanic Competition will take place Thursday, June 18, at Brownsburg, bringing together technicians and mechanics from across Indiana for a day dedicated to technical expertise, problem‑solving, and professional excellence.
This annual competition celebrates the critical role technicians and mechanics play in student transportation. Participants will put their knowledge and hands‑on skills to the test through a series of practical and theoretical challenges designed to reflect real‑world scenarios—from diagnostics and repair techniques to safety procedures and industry best practices.
More than a competition, the Technician/Mechanic Competition is a celebration of craftsmanship, precision, and dedication. It provides a unique opportunity for participants to demonstrate their expertise, learn from peers, and represent their districts or companies with pride. The event also reinforces STAI’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety and reliability across school transportation operations statewide.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an emerging talent in the field, this event highlights the value of ongoing training, collaboration, and excellence behind the scenes. Join us in Brownsburg on Thursday, June 18, as we recognize the talent and technical skill that keep Indiana’s school buses road‑ready and students safe every day.
The Post-Spring Break Shift: Gearing Up for the Finish Line
Spring break has wrapped up, but for School Transportation Directors, the busiest season is just beginning. As we head into the final stretch of the 2025-2026 school year, our focus shifts from daily operations to a complex balancing act: finishing strong while building the future.
Here is a look at what’s currently on the radar for transportation leadership across Indiana:
The "Final Push" & Safety FirstThe warmer weather brings "spring fever," but it also brings a renewed focus on safety compliance.
- Safety Drills: We are moving into the second round of required bus evacuation drills to ensure every student knows exactly what to do in an emergency.
- Fleet Health: After a grueling winter, our maintenance teams are performing deep cleans and mechanical overhauls to prep for the heavy spring field trip season.
- Driver Support: Directors are out in the field for "ride-alongs" and performance evaluations, ensuring our high safety standards remain consistent until the very last bell.
While the students are counting down to summer, we are staring at spreadsheets.
- Route Optimization: We are already analyzing enrollment data and odometer readings to "right-size" our fleet and retire aging vehicles.
- Summer Logistics: Planning for summer school is a unique puzzle, requiring complex routing for lower, more spread-out ridership.
- Recruitment: The driver shortage remains a priority. Spring is our peak recruiting window to ensure new drivers are licensed and ready by August.
The fiscal year reset is fast approaching, making this "crunch time" for administrative tasks.
- Bidding: We are currently finalizing tire bids and fuel contracts for the coming year.
- STAI Annual Conference: We are looking forward to the STAI Annual Conference this June, where our team will participate in safety competitions and continue professional certification tracks.
Student mobility spikes in the spring. Transportation teams will be managing a high volume of route change requests as families transition, ensuring that every student still has a safe way to get to school.
Director's Note: "The end of the year isn't just a countdown; it's a launchpad for next year. Our goal is to ensure every student finishes this year safely while we build the most efficient system possible for the fall."
A Message from the Executive Director: The Road Ahead
I hope you all had a chance to catch your breath during Spring Break. As we return to our offices and bus lots, we hit that unique "April gear"—where we are simultaneously focused on the safe delivery of students today and the complex logistical puzzles of the 2026-2027 school year.
This is the season of the "Final Push." With the arrival of warmer weather and the excitement of the school year’s end, our role as the steady hand behind the wheel is more important than ever. Whether it’s managing the surge in spring field trips or conducting our final round of required safety drills, your commitment to excellence ensures that every Indiana student finishes their year on a high note.
Looking Toward June: The STAI Annual ConferencePreparation is already in full swing for our Annual Safety Competition and Conference this June in Brownsburg. This event is more than just a competition; it is a testament to the skill and professionalism of Indiana’s transportation teams.
- The Roadeo: I encourage you to send your best drivers and technicians. It’s a fantastic way to build morale and showcase the elite talent we have in our state.
- Certification: For those currently in the Director of Transportation certification track, April is a critical month for checking your credits and ensuring your "B112" and leadership coursework are on schedule.
As we look at the legislative landscape following the 2026 short session, STAI remains your advocate. We are closely monitoring the implementation of new pilot programs for shared transportation and facilities. Our goal remains the same: to ensure that as policy evolves, the safety of the children and the stability of our workforce remain the top priorities.
A Challenge for AprilThis month, I challenge you to focus on Retention through Recognition. Our drivers and monitors have navigated a long winter. A simple "thank you" or a small recognition event at the lot can go a long way in ensuring your team stays with you through the summer and into the fall.
Thank you for your tireless work, your expertise, and your dedication to the 180-day mission. Let’s make this final stretch the safest and most efficient one yet.
Stay Safe,
Dr. Terry Tippin
Executive Director, School Transportation Association of Indiana
STAI Regions
Don’t know what region you’re in? Take a look at the map to guide you.
Professional Development & Events Calendar
April 2
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Region 1 Meeting
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TBD
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April 7
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Region 10 Meeting
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Hauser Jr. Sr. High School
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April 11
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ISSBDA Annual Meeting
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Mantana Mike's, Greenfield
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April 11-12
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NAPT PD Weekend
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Evansville
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April 14
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Region 8 Meeting
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Waren Twp. Transportation Center
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April 15
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Region 6 Meeting
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Willie & Red's, Hagerstown
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April 15
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Region 4 Meeting
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Walt's Other Pub, Lafayette
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April 15
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Region 9 Meeting
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Jasper Pub 'N' Grub, Evansville
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April 16
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IASBO Transportation Seminar
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Plainfield
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April 22
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Region 2 Meeting
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Wa-Nee Transportation Center
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