Agenda

Monday November 11 As of 10/31/24. Subject to change.

Sessions

8 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.

General Session: "Essential Considerations When Using Alternate Vehicles for Student Transportation"

Facilitator: Peter Mannella

Panelists:

  • Launi Harden
  • Alexandra Robinson
  • Sue Shutrump

Description: School districts are turning to alternative transportation providers like never before to provide service to students with disabilities and students experiencing homelessness that are difficult to transport via the yellow school bus. Several states have developed regulations governing these services, but inconsistence reigns nationwide. This trend prompted the National Congress on School Transportation to bring the topic before state delegations next spring to vote on potential guidelines for service, driver training, background checks, and oversight, to name a few. Amid a new policy statement released by the National Association for Pupil Transportation earlier this year, this session will discuss the impact of alternative transportation services on safety, the student experience, training, contracts and oversight, budgets, and technology.  

Sponsored by

Everdriven
Trade Show

10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Trade Show + Lunch

Description: Discover the captivating trade show floor at the TSD Conference and immerse yourself in the world of cutting-edge technologies and services that are revolutionizing the school transportation industry. Join us for a unique opportunity to gain valuable knowledge, find inspiration, and connect with industry professionals. Unlock information, ideas, and networking opportunities that will propel you forward in your transportation journey. 

Sessions

2 p.m. – 5 p.m.

OT/PT/Transporter Forum: Ensuring a Safe Ride to School for Students with Disabilities in All Vehicles & Brainstorming Solutions to Your Most Challenging Cases
Moderator:  Susan J. Shutrump
Panelist:
  • Laura Beth Blankenship
  • Kala M. Henkensiefken
  • Miriam A. Manary
  • Trisha Nolen
  • Maritza Valentin
Description: Typically, when the team develops an Individualized Transportation Plan, it is to meet the needs of a student with a disability who will be riding the yellow school bus. But what if the student will be riding in a van, SUV or other smaller vehicle? How about if they will be riding in a paratransit vehicle?  Will the plan still be safe and effective? With the increase in use of alternative transportation options the team must consider what types of supports are necessary including which vehicles can best meet the student’s needs. Join us as we explore these expanded options. The seminar will also cover recommendations for meeting attendees’ most challenging transportation scenarios. 
Sessions

2 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Crisis & Safety Planning for Students with Disabilities Begins with Sensitivity
Speakers:  Bret E. Brooks & Julie Jilek
Descriptions:Transportation disaster preparedness and emergency response plans are typically designed for individuals without disabilities, and often the needs of students with disabilities are overlooked or misunderstood. This session combines the expertise of a special education and law enforcement professionals to explore how transportation providers and school districts can collaborate to gain a deeper understanding of these students’ unique needs. By doing so, they can enhance emergency planning and response efforts, ensuring the safety and well-being of students with disabilities during various crisis situations. 

2024 TSD Topics As of 8/9/24. Subject to change.

  • Foundations of Special Needs Transportation
  • Hands-on Training & Drill for Evacuating Students with Disabilities & Preschoolers
  • OT/PT/Transporter Forum: Ensuring Proper Student Securement in Alternative Vehicles
  • In-Practice: Transportation Crisis Planning & Emergency Training for Students with Special Needs
  • Transition Training & Mainstreaming
  • Risk Management in Everyday Operations
  • IDEA Part C: Transportation as an Early Intervention Tool
  • Setting Realistic Expectations for School Bus Drivers & Attendants
  • 13 Exceptional Abilities Served by Transportation
  • Communicating with Parents/Student Advocacy
  • Behavior De-escalation and PBIS in Transportation Environments
  • Transportation Crisis Planning & Emergency Training for Students with Special Needs
  • Proactive Driver & Attendant Training Programs
  • Build Blocks for Career Development
  • Successful Partnerships Between School Districts & Contractors
  • Providing Training for the Service of Medically Fragile Riders
  • When Can & Should You Say No to IEP Team Requests?
  • What the Latest Wheelchair Crash Research Tells Us

And more!