STS Highlights: August 2026

STS Highlights: August 2026
As a new school year begins, transportation teams are preparing for changing routes, increased traffic, and a continued commitment to student safety. In this month’s STS Highlights, we are sharing resources to help districts strengthen driver readiness, address workforce challenges, complete annual training, and raise awareness about motorists illegally passing stopped school buses.
We also highlight flexible online Hazmat ELDT theory training and the ways Smart Horizons can help organizations create custom courseware and training plans around their specific needs. For a quick break from the demands of the school year, discover how an amateur astronomer’s curiosity and Google Maps led to the confirmation of a 390-million-year-old meteorite crater.
Here’s to a safe and successful school year,
Patrick

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Supporting Drivers and OperationsKeeping school bus drivers trained and ready isn’t just about meeting requirements. It’s about maintaining safe, reliable transportation for your students every day. Our theory options offer flexible, online training built specifically for school bus drivers and transportation teams. Whether you’re onboarding new drivers or supporting experienced staff, our programs are designed to fit your schedule without disrupting operations. |
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We Don’t Just Deliver Training—We Build It With YouAt Smart Horizons, we are your dedicated courseware development partner. Our experienced instructional designers and media professionals work hand-in-hand with subject matter experts to create custom, high-impact training solutions that fit your goals, timeline, and budget. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. Let’s collaborate to develop training that truly reflects your organization’s needs. |
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Now’s the Perfect Time to Tackle Annual Training!Because we understand that one size doesn’t fit all, our Custom option allows you to choose the exact lessons your team needs. Whether you’re focusing on in-service, professional development, or building career ladders, you can tailor a training plan that aligns with your goals. Many districts even use these customized training plans as part of their promotion or wage increase criteria. |
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Online ELDT Theory Training—HAZMATBefore taking the Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement knowledge test, drivers must complete the required ELDT theory training. Our online, self-paced course meets FMCSA requirements, and completion is automatically reported to the Training Provider Registry. Complete your training anytime, anywhere, and move one step closer to adding the Hazmat endorsement to your CDL. |
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Interesting: An Amateur Astronomer Finds Prehistoric Meteorite CraterWhat began as a routine search for hiking routes on Google Maps led an amateur astronomer to a remarkable discovery. He noticed a strange, 15.5-mile-wide circular formation in northeastern Quebec that appeared to be a meteorite crater. Scientists later investigated the site and confirmed that the formation was created by a meteorite impact approximately 390 million years ago. Read how curiosity, technology, and careful observation helped uncover an ancient geological feature hidden in plain sight. |
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Challenges Facing Today’s School Bus Driver WorkforceSchool transportation departments across the country continue to face growing workforce challenges. As experienced drivers retire and recruitment becomes increasingly competitive, many districts are working to find ways to strengthen driver readiness, improve retention, and support long-term transportation operations. School Training Solutions offers flexible online theory training designed to support school bus drivers and today’s evolving transportation workforce. |
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School Bus Safety: Help Stop Illegal PassingMotorists who illegally pass stopped school buses place students at serious risk while they are boarding or leaving the bus. As students return to school, increased traffic makes it especially important for drivers to remain alert and recognize school bus warning signals. Because stopping requirements vary by state and roadway, every motorist should understand the laws where they drive. Help raise awareness and protect students by sharing our free state-by-state guide to school bus stopping laws. |
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