Professional Empowerment for Systemic Safety

Offers education and informational resources to professionals working in the school bus transportation industry.

Conducts an annual poster contest during the school year in partnership with the New York State Education Department, awards cash prizes and certificates to winners across five divisions, and submits state-level first-place winners to the National Association for Pupil Transportation for national competition.

Encourages tracking and reporting of illegal school bus passing zones to local police, especially in advance of Safe Stop Day. Supports local efforts by updating the Operation Safe Stop Tool Kit and distributing a "HOT SPOT" form for reporting high-risk locations.

Offers state-mandated and continuing education courses, including 19A refresher and SED SBDI programs, through workshops, webinars, and regional/statewide courses. Hosts the annual Winter Workshop and provides legal webinars in collaboration with law firms to support professional development.

Maintains ongoing engagement with newly appointed leadership of key legislative committees in New York State government to advocate on policy issues affecting student transportation and the profession.

Offers multiple membership categories including active, associate, retired, and group memberships for businesses, with associated fees and benefits such as voting rights, conference access, and participation in education and advocacy programs.

Hosts an annual Summer Conference and Trade Show featuring over 35 workshops and general sessions, along with a trade show of approximately 75 exhibitors showcasing transportation technology and services. Also organizes virtual trade shows in collaboration with industry members.

Distributes a bi-weekly newsletter with updates on school transportation news and maintains a website with access to online resources, a membership directory, discussion forums, and links to state, federal, and private agencies relevant to pupil transportation.

Governs through a board of officers and regional directors from 17 chapters across New York State, holding regular board and committee meetings (in-person and virtual). Operates standing and ad hoc committees, including a Leadership Institute certification program, mentor program, and scholarship committee.

Advocates for members by collaborating with federal policymakers and education leaders, providing public policy updates, and maintaining a Public Policy Agenda to guide action on student transportation issues.

Conducts research studies and provides knowledge and future-oriented research to improve the safety, economy, and performance of student transportation systems.

Serves as the credentialing body for the student transportation sector and helps develop and implement the NAPT Professional Certification Program, offering professional development and certification opportunities for pupil transportation professionals.

Organizes strategic initiatives such as School Bus Safety Week, Love the Bus, Driven Together, and a national poster contest, along with an annual awards program to recognize professionals and promote public awareness of school transportation safety and contributions.

Provides members with bi-weekly email briefs, monthly trade publication presence, 10 digital and 2 print issues of School BUSRide annually, free educational webinars, and group membership options. Also operates an online registration and renewal system and online store for members.

Offers education and training opportunities, including workshops, leadership development, and professional development programs, to advance school transportation professionals and promote pupil safety. These services are delivered through a membership-based network and include the development and delivery of training programs and resources.

Offers affiliation to state associations for an annual fee, providing access to benefits including promotional support, a free professional development session, and an annual meeting. Also operates a Business Partner Membership program offering benefits such as discounted trade show access, membership directory access, and job posting rates.

Engages in activities aimed at promoting and fostering professionalism and safety improvements in school transportation across New York State.

Represents private school bus contractors, distributors, manufacturers, and suppliers in advocating for favorable legislation and regulations at the state and national levels, including issues related to zero-emission bus mandates, cost adjustments, taxation, and congestion pricing exemptions.