The Goddard Public Schools Transportation Team demonstrated remarkable skill and determination at the annual Kansas State Pupil Transportation Association (KSPTA)'s Regional Safe Driver Competition held in Derby on Saturday, April 26th. Despite challenging weather conditions with cold temperatures and persistent rain, USD 265 drivers dominated the competition, securing an impressive 10 out of 22 possible top-four finishes across multiple categories. The event (commonly known as the "Bus Roadeo") tests drivers' precision, safety knowledge, and vehicle handling abilities through a series of challenging maneuvers.
Leading the charge in the Transit Bus division, Goddard's experienced drivers swept the podium with Kristy Evers claiming first place, followed by Taunya Terhune in second and Erick Mathews in third, with Sierra Ralstin rounding out the category in fourth place. The district's success continued in the Rookie divisions, where Neil Swenson and Andrew Pfannenstiel captured first and second place respectively in the Transit Bus category, while Katlin Daniel earned top honors among Conventional Bus rookie drivers. The Mini Bus categories saw equally impressive results, with Kelly Clark winning first place among experienced drivers, and Aaron Mathews and Alisha Ralstin securing first and second in the rookie division.
The achievements extend beyond the drivers themselves, as USD 265 demonstrated exceptional team support with seven staff members volunteering as judges for the competition. Sean Hollas, Interim Director of Transportation for Goddard Public Schools, expressed particular appreciation for Nina Gracy's contributions as the KSPTA Interim Secretary and Central Region Representative, as well as Dwane Scheidt's work in constructing practice equipment, and Skiler Titus's dedication in traveling to Garden City to support and judge at the Western Regional competition.
"I would like to thank our district administrative team for their encouragement and support of our participation in these competitions," said Hollas, highlighting the collaborative effort behind the Transportation Department's success. This administrative backing has been instrumental not only in supporting the drivers' competitive endeavors but also in securing Goddard High School as the host site for the upcoming State Competition on June 4th.
The Regional Competition served as excellent preparation for the State-Level Bus Roadeo. With their commanding performance at regionals, USD 265's Transportation Team has established themselves as strong contenders for the State Championship. As Hollas confidently stated, "The regionals were a fantastic rehearsal for the state competition...I look forward to another dominating performance from our drivers." The event promises to showcase the exceptional skills of school bus drivers from across Kansas, with the hometown team poised to continue their winning streak on their own turf.