Agenda

Monday November 10 As of 8/29/25. Subject to change.

Keynote Session

8:00 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.
The Power of Praise: Shaping Student Behavior & Building Success on the Bus

Speaker: Lisa Navarra

Location: Frisco 1

Description: Praise is a powerful, research-based strategy that supports positive student development. While often associated with classroom settings, praise is equally impactful on the school bus, where students encounter daily transitions that influence their emotional state and behavior. Transportation professionals, including school bus drivers and bus attendants, play a critical role in shaping how students respond to challenges and make safe and cooperative choices during transit.
This training explores how praise can be used as a practical and intentional intervention on the bus to reinforce expected behaviors, foster resilience, and promote a positive bus climate. Participants will learn how behavior-specific praise can reduce resistance, encourage cooperation, and support the development of self-regulation and social-emotional competence so students arrive at school safe and ready to learn!
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this training, participants will:
• Understand how praise can shape student behavior during transportation routines.
• Learn the difference between behavior-specific and non-specific praise, and how each affects student outcomes.
• Use praise to reinforce effort rather than abilities.
• Apply effective praise strategies to reduce negative behaviors and increase cooperation on the bus.
• Practice phrasing positive reinforcement statements aligned with upcoming school expectations

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: Multidisciplinary Policy Development and Impact of Safety
Moderator:  Susan J. Shutrump
Panelist:
  • Laura Beth Blankenship
  • Kala M. Henkensiefken
  • Miriam A. Manary
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. 
Attendant Training

Location: Ranger/Sea Biscuit/Traveller

Speakers: Launi Harden