STS Highlights December 2024
STS Highlights: November
As the year winds down, we bring you a mix of essential safety updates, helpful training resources, and a heartwarming story to brighten your day. From vital insights into school bus safety and hazardous materials endorsement training to the importance of maintaining clean and safe transportation environments, this month’s edition covers a wide range of topics. Plus, don’t miss the incredible tale of a message in a bottle that made its way through time. Read on for all the details and stay informed this holiday season!
The goal with these monthly resources is always to convey a few public service announcements (PSAs) and to help elevate your career, department, or organization. As always, we take pride in helping you meet your training needs and goals.
Thank you for your continued dedication,
Patrick
Everyday Preventive Actions to Stop the Spread of Germs
Each year, respiratory viruses are responsible for millions of illnesses and thousands of hospitalizations and deaths in the United States. This can help:
- Wash Your Hands Often
- Avoid Close Contact
- Cover Your Coughs and Sneezes
- Wear a Mask in Crowded Places
- Clean and Disinfect Surfaces
- Stay Home if You’re Sick
- Get Vaccinated
Preventing Respiratory Viruses
National School Bus Loading & Unloading Survey
This survey compiles fatality accident reports from state agencies responsible for school transportation. The Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) and the National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services (NASDPTS) request annual data from all states and Washington, D.C., which KSDE then compiles. The survey aims to raise awareness of the dangers associated with loading and unloading school children.
Get Your HAZMAT Endorsement with Our Popular ELDT Training
Our HAZMAT curriculum is our most popular ELDT training package. CDL holders can earn a Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement by completing THEORY training and passing the H endorsement knowledge test. This Smart Horizons track fulfills the THEORY training requirement.
Our Online ELDT Theory Courses
Pretty Darn Interesting: A Little Girl Dropped a Message in a Bottle Into a Lake.
Her Daughter’s Classmate Found It 26 Years Later
Makenzie Van Eyk wrote the letter as part of a class project in 1998, when she was in fourth grade. Recently, the note was discovered by a boy who goes to school with her daughter—who is now in fourth grade herself
Read the Full Smithsonian Magazine Article
Cleaner Rides, Safer Students
Maintaining a clean and safe environment on school buses is essential for the health and well-being of our students. Regular disinfecting helps to eliminate harmful germs and bacteria, reducing the risk of illness and ensuring that children travel in a safe space.
View/Download this Infographic
Essential Training for Special Needs Transportation
Special needs transportation training is crucial for ensuring the safety and comfort of students with diverse needs. This online training equips drivers and aides with the skills to assist those with mobility challenges and behavioral considerations, promoting empathy and effective communication.
COVID-19 At-Home Tests
As of late September 2024, residential households in the U.S. are eligible for another order of #4 free at-home tests from USPS.com.
NAPT Certifications
The National Association for Pupil Transportation (NAPT) offers various certifications aimed at enhancing the professionalism and knowledge of individuals involved in student transportation.
