Manassas Park Transportation News
2017/18 School Year –Issue #8 – May 2018
A Safer Year for Students
The 2017-2018 School Year became a safer year, thanks to the installation of Stop Arm Cameras on the school buses. According to many bus drivers, the number of drivers running their stop arm cameras has decreased tremendously this year, probably due in part to the widespread campaign to alert violators of the fine for getting caught: $250.
One of the most challenging areas for school buses has been Manassas Drive at the Merit School. Four lanes of traffic must stop when the red lights are flashing, which can be challenging for many drivers who are trying to get to the train at the bottom of the hill before it departs. Thanks to Office Quesenberry ("Quiz"), Community Resource Officer for Manassas Park, new signs were obtained and installed on Manassas Drive near Digital to augment the original bus signs. That area is one of our troubled areas for vehicles not stopping for buses.
Teacher Appreciation Day
Technically, it was Teacher Appreciation Day, but many parents used the opportunity to thank members of the Transportation Department because, face it, we’re educators too! We may not have the papers to prove it, but we teach some of life’s most important lessons.
We teach children how to follow the rules. We teach them patience, kindness and care. Sometimes we teach them to speak English. We teach them that children come in all shapes and sizes from all parts of the world, each with its own customs, costumes and traditions. We teach them to respect others, even those who seem a little "different." We teach them that no matter how bad today is, tomorrow is another day, and another chance to start over.
Hospitality Events
The Hospitality Committee has had a busy year. Events have included:
- A bake sale
- Christmas luncheon
- Walking tacos
- Hot dog social
- Chili cook-off
- Multicultural luncheon
- Ice cream social
But the Hospitality Committee does more than just throw a good party. They send cards and plants to those who have been sick or had surgery or lost loved ones. But the gifts aren’t from Hospitality; they are from all of us. Every time we buy a snack or a bottle of water, we contribute to the cause.
The end-of-the-year picnic is scheduled for Tuesday, June 5. There will be a sign-up sheet on the door. As usual, it will be fun.
Employee of the Month - March 2018
Yanira Fuentes, Sub Van Driver and Attendant, was selected to be Employee of the Month for March 2018. Yanira began training with MPCS last October, and, said Patricia Hurley, “since that time I have found her to be dependable, well-rounded at her job and a quick study. Yanira has stepped up time and time again. She asks questions when she isn’t sure of something and doesn’t shy away from new challenges. She has stepped into the role of Attendant on Bus 37 for the remaining of the school year. Yanira is dependable and comes to work with a smile and a good attitude. She fits right in to our department and I am glad to have her on our team.”
Employee of the Month - April 2018
Ruthy Tyre was selected as Employee of the Month for April 2018. Ruthy also started her training in October of 2017 and became a contracted driver January of this year.
“Ruthy was an immediate fit in transportation,” said Patty. “She brings with her years of experience and knowledge through her life experiences. She understands the importance of safety and the enormous responsibility you have as a school bus driver. I am happy and pleased to have Ruthy on our team.”
On a personal note....
In many ways, we are more like a family than an office, and as such, we rejoice with each other over so many little things. A new grandbaby. A wedding. A divorce. An unexpected bonus. A good report from the doctor. A new driver on the team!
And sometimes we grieve. For some of us, this has been a difficult year in terms of health concerns, family issues or even loss. But we drive on, doing the best we can for the children who are in our care.