Location: Apache Ballroom

This talk explores how fostering a culture of accountability within teams can directly impact employee retention, highlighting how clear expectations, consistent follow-through, and empowered leadership contribute to a workplace where staff feel valued, supported, and motivated to stay. Drawing on real-world examples and practical strategies, attendees will learn how accountability not only drives performance, but also builds trust, improves morale, and reduces turnover: a critical need in today’s climate of nationwide driver shortage.

Location: Apache Ballroom

Speaker:
Chris McLeod, Henry County Schools

Sit in a small-group presentation from a select industry supplier to learn more about what technologies can help make your operation more efficient. Check your personalized agenda to find out where to go! 

Locations: Apache, Papago I, Papago II, & Council

Network and help yourself to snacks

Location: The Trading Post

The most popular part of SBFX! Modeled after speed dating, you'll spend 10 minutes each with vendors carefully selected based on your needs and interests. Check your personalized agenda to find out who you're visiting with and when. Don't worry, we'll make sure we're there to help and assist!

Location: Maricopa

Cheese! Join your fellow attendees in front of the camera for a quick photo opp!

Location: Maricopa

Location: Apache Ballroom

Celebrate the most inspiring leaders and innovators in the industry! Learn the winner of the 2025 School Bus Driver Hero Award, sponsored and presented by AngelTrax. Then, the SBF team will present the Administrator of the Year, Contractor of the Year, Trailblazers, and Photo of the Year winners.

Location: Apache Ballroom

Sponsored by: IC Bus

Network and help yourself to snacks!

Location: Trading Post

Listen in as SBF's editorial advisory board takes the stage to tackle the biggest trends in K-12 transportation. This expert panel will discuss hot topics like funding, alternative fuels, alternative transportation, student behavior, safety, and technology, and evaluate where the industry is headed as we navigate today with an eye on tomorrow.

Location: Apache Ballroom

Moderator:
Amanda Huggett, School Bus Fleet

Panelists:
Greg Jackson, School Bus Logistics;
Max Christensen, First Light Safety Products
Teri Mapengo, Prosper ISD
Tim Flood, The Trans Group

This presentation will provide strategies and protocols to create and enhance the management of your transportation team. It highlights the importance of fostering a collaborative environment where every team member feels appreciated and empowered to contribute their unique skills, thereby strengthening the team. By the conclusion of this presentation, you will gain actionable insights to develop a resilient team equipped to tackle the ever-changing challenges within the student transportation industry.

Location: Apache Ballroom

Speakers:
Molly McGee Hewitt, NAPT

Sit in a small-group presentation from a select industry supplier to learn more about what technologies can help make your operation more efficient. Check your personalized agenda to find out where to go! 

Locations: Apache, Papago I, Papago II, & Council

Network and help yourself to snacks

Location: Trading Post

The most popular part of SBFX! Modeled after speed dating, you'll spend 10 minutes each with vendors carefully selected based on your needs and interests. Check your personalized agenda to find out who you're visiting with and when. Don't worry, we'll make sure we're there to help and assist!

Locations: Maricopa

Kick back after a long day with a delicious buffet dinner, bar and great music on the lush resort lawns. Stay and chat with others as long as you'd like!

Entertainment: Adam Townsend Duo

Location: Paradise Park Lawn