Bloomington bus driver trainer wins MN School Bus Roadeo, advances to national competition
Lisa Dawson, a trainer in the ԹϺ Transportation department, has been invited to compete in a national school bus driver competition after placing first among public school contestants at the Minnesota School Bus Roadeo, held last August in Burnsville.
In the statewide competition, 45 school bus drivers from school districts and private operators demonstrated their professionalism, safety focus and behind-the-wheel skills. Contestants were evaluated on their navigation of a detailed obstacle course, written tests on rules and safety, and pre-trip vehicle inspections.
Dawson has worked for BPS for six years. She teaches new bus drivers how to inspect and safely operate their vehicle. She also trains drivers and aides who work with students with disabilities, teaching them how to use specialized equipment and interact with students.
“This has been the most rewarding career knowing I help shape students’ lives," said Dawson. “Whether it's my drivers or myself out on a route, I know something as little as being the first person a student sees with a smile in the morning can make or break a child’s perspective on school.”
The National School Bus Driver International Safety Competition will be held June 27-28 in Austin, TX. The competition brings together skilled drivers from across the U.S. and Canada.