Transporting Students with Disabilities & Special Needs

Conference and Trade Show

November 4—10, 2026

Embassy Suites, Frisco (Dallas) TX

Empowering Safe Rides

The TSD Conference and Trade Show brings together transportation pros from around the country to learn the latest in special-needs student transport.

See What’s New in Accessible Transport

The Trade Show features dozens of exhibitors showcasing buses, safety gear, software, and other tools designed for students with disabilities.

Learn, Connect & Lead

Attendees can join hands-on training, workshops, and networking events — from wheelchair-securement certification to ASL sessions — to improve safety and inclusion in their fleets.

TSD training session

TSD Conference and Trade Show

Welcome to the TSD Conference – the ultimate platform for transportation professionals nationwide. Join us and discover a world of innovation and empowerment, where inspiration meets impact. Immerse yourself in the latest trends in special needs transportation training, products, and services. Connect with like-minded individuals, attend educational sessions and workshops, and explore product demonstrations. Our transformative event is designed to equip you with practical solutions and enhance safety for students with disabilities and special needs. Whether you are a transportation director, superintendent, fleet manager, driver trainer, or special education professional – the TSD Conference is for you. Elevate your transportation team and operations at the TSD Conference and become part of this empowering experience. Register now and secure your spot!

Who Should Attend the TSD Conference and Trade Show

Transportation professionals nationwide who want to learn the latest trends in special needs transportation training, products and services. They also learn about how to produce better, more quantifiable results from their transportation team and operations.

Attendees include: Transportation Directors and Supervisors, Purchasing Agents, School Bus Association Members, Superintendents, Fleet Managers, Mechanics and Technicians, Operations Managers, Driver Trainers, Safety Trainers, Special Needs Transportation Routers, Dispatchers, Administrators, Special Education Professionals, Private Fleet Operators, Head Start/Childcare Professionals, Executives and CEOs, and School Bus Dealers.

TSD conference
Transportation Director Summit

A two-day, invite-only gathering for school district transportation directors, private fleet managers, OEMs and suppliers — blending leadership training, peer discussion, and vendor engagement

TSD Conference
Bus Technology Summit

A track focused on the latest innovations in student‐transportation tech, offering demos, labs and sessions on tools for operational safety and efficiency.

Ride & Drive

Explore the latest in clean transportation at our Ride & Drive showcase, where you can experience cutting-edge electric, propane, and low-emission school buses.

Networking Events

Social mixers, ride-and-drive demos, vendor receptions and informal meet-ups — designed to foster relationships among districts, contractors, manufacturers and service providers.

Keynote Speakers

Michelle Gay
Michelle Gay

Keynote Speaker

Co-founder of Safe and Sound Schools

Betsey Helfrich
Betsey Helfrich

Keynote Speaker

Special Needs Education Attorney

Glenna Wright-Gallo
Glenna Wright-Gallo

Keynote Speaker

Transformative Leader in Disability Policy

Lisa Nararra
Lisa Nararra

Keynote Speaker

The Power of Praise: Shaping Student Behavior & Building Success on the Bus

Conference News

Presenting Diamond Sponsor

Zonar logo

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Zonar, our Presenting Diamond Sponsor at the 2025 TSD Conference and Trade Show, whose generous support enhances our commitment to promoting excellence in special needs transportation. Don’t miss the chance to connect and learn more about their impactful contributions; visit them at booth #305 during the trade show or explore their website for additional insights and offerings that are shaping the future of student transportation for those with disabilities.

Conference Sponsors