Minnesota School Bus Operators Association

10/15/2026

🚌 Attention MSBOA Members & Minnesota School Bus Operators!

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) has released proposed permanent rules relating to school bus safety, and your input is important!

The Minnesota School Bus Operators Association (MSBOA) encourages all members and school transportation professionals to review the proposed changes and take advantage of the opportunity to provide feedback.

These proposed rules could impact daily school bus operations across Minnesota. Your experience and perspective are valuable in helping shape regulations that support student safety and practical transportation operations.

📅 Public Comment Deadline: November 20, 2026, at 4:30 PM

We encourage our members to stay informed, review the proposed rules, and submit your questions or comments.

🔗 Review the proposed rules and learn how to submit comments:
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/MNDPS/bulletins/428691e

09/25/2026

09/08/2026

🚌 Welcome Back to School! 🎒🍎

As a new school year gets underway, the Minnesota School Bus Operators Association would like to welcome back our school bus drivers, administrators, transportation teams, support staff, students and families!

Every school day starts and ends with the dedication of the people who make safe student transportation possible. Thank you to our drivers and transportation professionals for the early mornings, careful preparation and commitment to getting Minnesota students to and from school safely.

Here’s to a safe, successful and rewarding school year! 🚌💛

09/08/2026

A new law requires drivers to stop at least 20 feet from a bus when red lights are flashing, even if the stop arm isn't fully extended. LEARN MORE: bit.ly/4zPNGHP

08/30/2026

🏆 We’re closing our Summer Conference award highlights by recognizing Steve Hale of Owatonna Bus Company, recipient of the MSBOA Lifetime Achievement Award!

Established in 2006, this award honors individuals who exemplify excellence as school bus transportation providers and have dedicated at least 20 years to the industry.

Steve retired from Owatonna Bus Company after an extraordinary 47-year career devoted to safely transporting students and serving his community. His leadership, commitment, and decades of service represent the very best of Minnesota’s school transportation industry.

Congratulations, Steve, on this well-deserved lifetime achievement! 👏🚌

Read more about Steve’s remarkable career: Owatonna People’s Press, https://www.southernminn.com/owatonna_peoples_press/community/todd-hale-steve-hale-retiring-from-owatonna-bus-co-after-47-years/article_69ba3023-c636-494f-b096-6d16fe7c2706.html

08/29/2026

🏆 This weekend, we’re highlighting two special awards presented at the MSBOA Summer Conference. First is the Jim DeVeau Award, presented to Eric Burrill of Benjamin Bus, Inc.!

Established in 2007, the Jim DeVeau Award honors individuals whose tireless efforts throughout their careers have helped shape MSBOA and the school bus industry. Eric has been with Benjamin Bus since 1996, beginning in sales and dispatch before advancing to School Bus Manager of the Jordan facility.

“Eric is the kind of guy who does whatever it takes to get the job done. Whatever the company needs, he does—and never complains,” said John Benjamin, President of Benjamin Bus.

Congratulations, Eric, on this well-deserved honor! 👏🚌

08/28/2026

🚌 Congratulations to Paul Salfrank of Vision Transportation, recipient of the Transportation Specialist Award!

Paul is recognized for his exceptional professionalism, strong work ethic, and unwavering commitment to student safety. His careful attention to detail, sound judgment, and safety-first approach ensure that students are protected and cared for every day.

Known for treating everyone with kindness, dignity, and respect, Paul has earned the trust and appreciation of students, families, and coworkers alike. His steady presence and dedication to excellence represent the very best of the transportation profession. This recognition is truly well deserved! 👏🎉

08/27/2026

🚌 Congratulations to Brian Rehbein of Rehbein Transit Inc., recipient of the Transportation Specialist Award!

During his remarkable 47-year career, Brian has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to student safety, operational excellence, and the people he serves. As a highly skilled mechanic, experienced driver, mentor, and trusted leader, he has helped make transportation safer while supporting generations of drivers and mechanics.

Brian’s humility, integrity, and genuine care for others represent the very best of the transportation profession. Thank you, Brian, for nearly five decades of outstanding service—this recognition is truly well deserved! 👏🎉

08/26/2026

🚌 Congratulations to Steve Peterson of Vision Transportation, recipient of the Transportation Specialist Award!

Following his service in the U.S. Army, Steve began a decades-long career in transportation. For the past 20 years, he has been a valued member of Vision Transportation, serving as both a mechanic and bus driver. His professionalism, integrity, and commitment to student safety have earned the respect of students, families, and fellow drivers.

Steve’s strong connection with his students and willingness to support others exemplify the very best of the transportation profession. Also named the 2025 VFW Bus Driver of the Year, Steve is truly deserving of this recognition! 👏🎉

08/25/2026

🚌 Congratulations to Mebal Kaanyi of Schmitty & Sons Bus Co., recipient of the Transportation Specialist Award!

When faced with a life-threatening emergency, Mebal’s quick thinking, courage, and decisive action led to the rescue of a nonverbal four-year-old child from Lake Owasso. She remained calm under pressure, acted without hesitation, and ensured emergency responders were alerted.

Mebal’s students proudly call her a “Superhero”—a fitting tribute to someone whose bravery, compassion, and commitment to safety represent the very best of the transportation profession. This recognition is incredibly well deserved! 👏🎉