Western Reserve Local Schools, [Collins, Ohio] — As part of its ongoing commitment to student safety and well-being, Western Reserve Local Schools recently provided an essential professional development opportunity for its bus drivers: the School Transportation Active-Threat Response Training (S.T.A.R.T.) program. Held on August 21st and 22nd, this training was made possible through the collaborative efforts of Western Reserve Assistant Superintendent Chris Sheldon, New London Superintendent Brad Romano, and the Director of Transportation from Firelands Local Schools, Milt Saylor.
The S.T.A.R.T. Program, endorsed by the Ohio School Board Association (OSBA) and Ohio Homeland Security, is specifically designed for school bus drivers, aides, and support personnel. Developed by experts in law enforcement, behavioral health, and crisis intervention, the training offers participants both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively handle a variety of emergencies on or near a school bus. The program empowers drivers with the confidence and competence to keep students safe, even in challenging circumstances.
Over the course of two days, participants engaged in a comprehensive curriculum that included classroom instruction on identifying potential threats, understanding safety protocols, and learning the basics of emergency response. This theoretical foundation was then reinforced through hands-on exercises and scenario-based training, where drivers practiced active threat response, crisis de-escalation techniques, and other critical skills in a controlled, realistic environment.
Western Reserve Bus Driver Tuanna Foltz praised the program, stating, “This program was by far the best, most realistic, hands-on training I have received as a bus driver. All drivers should be receiving this training.”
Brad Miller, another driver, highlighted the unique role bus drivers play in students' lives. "Bus drivers are the first adults that most students see daily and often the person students will see most frequently through their academic years. This should inspire us to be empathetic and positive role models as part of the village it takes to raise a child!”
Long-time driver Jane Takacs also emphasized the value of the training, noting, “The S.T.A.R.T. program taught us to be more vigilant in our day-to-day operations. It provided us with key information and the tools to react in a crisis for a positive outcome — for the safety of our students and ourselves. This is an excellent program created and taught by experienced and highly trained professionals.”
Western Reserve Local Schools remains dedicated to fostering a safe and supportive environment for all students. By investing in professional development opportunities like the S.T.A.R.T. program, the district not only strengthens its commitment to student safety but also upholds its Strategic Plan, which focuses on enhancing the student experience and ensuring the well-being of all members of the school community. The district is proud of its bus drivers, who play a vital role in ensuring that students have a secure and positive start and end to each school day.