Plano ISD Named State Champions at Texas Safety Driving Competition
![Four Plano ISD Transportation Department staff members with three awards.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1777652276/pisdedu/lms65mnjczgnclvpm100/BusRoadeoStateChampions.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1777652276/pisdedu/lms65mnjczgnclvpm100/BusRoadeoStateChampions.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1777652276/pisdedu/lms65mnjczgnclvpm100/BusRoadeoStateChampions.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1777652276/pisdedu/lms65mnjczgnclvpm100/BusRoadeoStateChampions.jpg","width":876}])
Plano ISD's Transportation Department competed in the Texas Association for Pupil Transportation's 2026 School Bus Safety Roadeo, a statewide safety driving competition that highlights the exceptional skills of school bus professionals. The event was held in Sheldon ISD in Houston on April 25 and brought together 35 districts from across the state.
The roadeo includes both Conventional and Special Needs categories, where participants are timed and evaluated on skill-based driving and measurement precision. Competitors also complete written tests covering laws, regulations and safety guidelines, in addition to demonstrating pre-trip inspections and overall safety procedures. The Special Needs competition further emphasizes proper securement techniques and care for students requiring additional support.
Plano ISD earned First Place in two of the three categories. The team took top honors in Conventional (General Education Bus) out of 43 contestants and in Special Needs out of 21 teams.
“We are incredibly proud of our drivers and bus assistants who represented Plano ISD with professionalism and excellence,” said Plano ISD Director of Transportation Mark Skinner. “This outstanding achievement reflects the team's commitment to safety, skill and service.”
The team will compete at the National School Transportation Association's (NSTA) national contest for large school buses from June 27-28, 2026, in Austin. They will also represent the district at nationals for special-needs buses, which will be held during the Transporting Students with Disabilities & Special Needs conference in November 2026 in Frisco.