STS Highlights: July 2026
STS Highlights: July 2026
The countdown to a new school year has begun. For transportation departments, the summer months provide an important opportunity to prepare drivers, complete required training, strengthen operations, and ensure teams are ready to safely transport students on day one. The work completed now can have a lasting impact throughout the entire school year.
This month, we’re sharing resources focused on driver readiness, workforce development, and flexible training solutions. From annual in-service planning and customized professional development programs to ELDT theory training and strategies for addressing workforce challenges, our goal is to help transportation leaders build stronger teams and safer operations. We also invite you to explore a fascinating Harvard Health article highlighting five surprising benefits of walking and the positive impact simple habits can have on overall health.
Engage in learning this summer,
Patrick
 |
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. |
|
|
|
 |
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. |
|
|
|
 |
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. |
|
|
|
 |
Online ELDT Theory Training—Available for Immediate EnrollmentFor new drivers or those seeking additional endorsements, Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) is a mandatory federal requirement. Smart Horizons, an approved Training Provider for ELDT Theory, offers fully online theory training tracks that meet all federal standards. Upon completion, all results are promptly reported to the Training Provider Registry (TPR). Enrollment is open now, and learners can begin immediately. |
|
|
|
 |
Interesting: 5 surprising benefits of walkingThe next time you have a check-up, don’t be surprised if your doctor hands you a prescription to walk. Yes, this simple activity that you’ve been doing since you were about a year old is now being touted as “the closest thing we have to a wonder drug,” in the words of Dr. Thomas Frieden, former director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Read the entire article at Harvard Health Publishing. |
|
|
|
 |
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. |
|
|
|
