A Message from the Executive Director

As we head into the final weeks of the school year, I want to take a moment to thank each of you for the professionalism, dedication, and care you show Indiana’s students every single day. Spring is always a busy season in pupil transportation, and this time of year brings added pressure as we balance year‑end responsibilities with planning for what comes next.

STAI has an exciting few months ahead, filled with opportunities to recognize outstanding service, celebrate professional excellence, and reconnect with colleagues from across the state. I encourage you to take advantage of these events and share the information below with your teams.

Thank you for your continued involvement and commitment to safe, reliable student transportation.

— Dr. Terry Tippin
Executive Director, STAI

Countdown to the 2026 Roadeo & Safety Competition

Excitement is building for the 2026 STAI Roadeo & Safety Competition, taking place:

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Saturday, June 20
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Brownsburg Schools
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The Roadeo is more than a competition — it’s a celebration of skill, professionalism, and pride in the work our drivers do every day.

Why Participate?

Showcase driving expertise and safety knowledge

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Represent your district with pride
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Connect with peers from across Indiana
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Support driver morale, recognition, and retention

Competitions are open for:

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General Education Division
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Special Needs Division (teams of two)
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Winners from each division will advance to the National Competition.

Registration, station information, and preparation videos are available on the STAI website. We encourage districts to send one, two, or all of their drivers — and to come out and cheer them on!

Technician & Mechanic Competition – June 18

STAI is also looking forward to the 2026 Technician/Mechanic Competition, a highlight event for maintenance professionals across the state.

Thursday, June 18
Brownsburg Transportation Center

This competition allows technicians and mechanics to demonstrate their diagnostic abilities, technical knowledge, and commitment to safety and excellence. Whether you are a seasoned professional or an emerging talent, this is a great opportunity to learn, compete, and connect.

Registration is open now — don’t miss it!

Training & Professional Development Opportunities

STAI continues to support professional growth through partnerships and training opportunities. We encourage members to explore available:

Leadership development programs
Safety and instructional courses
Certification pathways, including Special Needs Transportation credentials

Professional development does not always require a full conference — smaller regional sessions, focused training weekends, and online provide excellent value and flexibility for busy operations.

Watch your email and the STAI website for additional training updates in the coming weeks.

Looking Ahead: 2026 STAI Conference & Trade Show

Plans are well underway for the 2026 STAI Conference & Trade Show in Fort Wayne, happening in late June.

The conference brings together:

Transportation directors and administrators
Supervisors and dispatchers
Drivers, technicians, and industry partners

In addition to educational sessions and networking, attendees can look forward to:

The annual Golf Outing and Euchre event
Exhibitor engagement and product showcases
Peer connections that extend well beyond the conference

If you haven’t registered yet, now is a great time to start planning.

Recognizing Our People

As the year wraps up, STAI encourages districts to take time to recognize the people who keep operations moving — drivers, monitors, technicians, trainers, dispatchers, and support staff.

Small gestures of appreciation and professional recognition make a lasting impact and remind our teams that their work truly matters.

Quick Links & Reminders

STAI News & Newsletter Archive
MemberClicks Portal
Follow STAI on Facebook, LinkedIn, X, YouTube, and Instagram

Thank you for your continued support of STAI and for the vital role you play in safely transporting Indiana’s students each day. We look forward to seeing many of you at our upcoming events!