President's Message
November 17, 2025
Members,
As we continue our mission to
provide safe, reliable, and caring transportation for our students, I want to
take a moment to highlight two pillars that sustain our success - communication
and collaboration.
Every day, our work depends on
teamwork: drivers, attendants, technicians, dispatchers, administrators,
campuses, vendors, and community partners all moving in sync towards the same
goal. When we communicate clearly and work together, we not only solve
problems faster, but also build trust and pride within our profession.
Open communication means listening
as much as speaking - sharing ideas, raising concerns, and celebrating each
other’s successes. Collaboration takes those conversations a step
further, turning shared insights into shared progress. Whether it’s
improving safety practices, increasing efficiencies, mentoring new team
members, or developing innovative solutions to challenges we face, our strength
lies in working together.
As an association, we’re committed
to creating more opportunities for meaningful connections. TAPT's expanded PDC
course offerings, webinars, and new Emerging Leaders Forum, allows
every member to have a voice. I encourage you to take part by attending
chapter meetings, taking TAPT courses, sharing your experiences, and learning
from others. Be a mentor to new members and to new professionals in our
industry. Together, we are building a network that supports one another
and advances our profession for the next generation.
Thank you for all you do each day
to serve your districts and communities with excellence and care. Let’s
continue to "LEVEL UP" and move forward - stronger together,
through communication and collaboration.
This week, we are approaching the
much-needed Thanksgiving break – a time when we are intentionally thankful for
the people and opportunities with which we are surrounded. Take time to
recharge and reset to finish the semester strong. Share your thanks and
appreciation for those on your team who you depend upon to carry out our
critical mission in support of our students and families. I am thankful for
TAPT and for each of you who continue your commitment to making us stronger!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Kayne Smith, Ed.D.
President
Texas Association for Pupil Transportation