#United States #Ohio #Chagrin Falls #school transportation #Active Threat Response

S.T.A.R.T. Launches Back-to-School Safety Initiative

As Ohio schools gear up for the new academic year, S.T.A.R.T. (School Transportation Active-Threat Response Training) is spearheading a significant campaign aimed at safeguarding students on school buses. This initiative is timely, as over 800,000 students utilize school transportation daily across the state, highlighting the urgent need for effective safety measures.

Proactive Training for Bus Drivers

S.T.A.R.T. provides specialized training programs that empower school bus drivers and transportation staff with the necessary skills to recognize danger signs, manage potential threats, and execute evasive actions when needed. Dale L. Dickson, Director of the Licking County Educational Service Center, expressed enthusiasm for the program, highlighting its effectiveness: “The training is exceptional; bus drivers, supervisors, and aides genuinely value the skills they acquire.” He advocates for mandatory training for all bus drivers in Ohio and nationally, emphasizing the importance of preparedness in ensuring student safety.

A Year-Round Commitment

Jim Levine, CEO of S.T.A.R.T., reinforces that the back-to-school initiative is just the beginning. “We’re encouraging Ohio schools to foster a culture of readiness year-round, ensuring that every driver is equipped to protect students at any moment.” This philosophy aims to build a robust framework around safety in schools, extending well beyond the initial weeks of the school term.

Moreover, the initiative advocates for active collaboration with local law enforcement agencies to enforce a community-focused approach to violence prevention and student protection. By intertwining the efforts of schools and police, S.T.A.R.T. envisions a safer environment for students.

How Schools Can Get Involved

Districts in Ohio interested in incorporating S.T.A.R.T.’s training into their safety protocols are encouraged to reach out. Schools can book training sessions through Maggie Verba at 216-245-3526 or explore more details on the S.T.A.R.T. website at schoolbusstart.com.

About S.T.A.R.T.

Founded in 2015 by a former School Resource Officer, S.T.A.R.T. was established to address crucial safety gaps in student transportation. The organization specializes in hands-on, scenario-based training delivered by experienced professionals, including active-duty and former law enforcement officers, crisis intervention experts, and mental health specialists.

Headquartered in Chagrin Falls, Ohio, S.T.A.R.T. is dedicated to fostering a culture of preparedness that starts when students board the bus and continues until they return home. With affiliations to both the Ohio Association for Pupil Transportation (OAPT) and the National Association for Pupil Transportation (NAPT), the organization is committed to enhancing safety standards at both the state and national levels.

Contact for More Information

For media inquiries or additional information regarding the training programs, contact Mike Lawson, the Communications Director at S.T.A.R.T. at 513-432-2358 or via email at [email protected].

By launching this initiative, S.T.A.R.T. aims to set a precedent for a safer transportation environment, prioritizing student safety as schools open their doors for the next generation.