The Dickson County School Board extended its heartfelt appreciation to the district's dedicated transportation personnel during July's meeting, honoring a elite group of drivers and staff who represented both Dickson County and Tennessee on the international stage.

Led by Transportation Director Melissa Garten, a contingent of Dickson County drivers traveled to Austin, Texas, to compete in the School Bus Driver International Safety Competition hosted by the National School Transportation Association.

The team's trip kicked off with a strong show of support from within the department. Driver George Duffy ensured the competitors made it safely to the airport, driving the team bus for their departure.

Once in Texas, the drivers faced a battery of written tests and a rigorous driving course designed to test spatial awareness, hazard recognition, student loading safety, and vehicle control.

The team representing Dickson County in the competition included:

• Betsy Grove

• James Tienvold 

• Tracy Almond

• Tim Fults

• Jason Leegan

• Vance Hardin

• Jerry Lewis

In addition to the competitors, Dickson County’s own Dennis Decker served on the event's official judging panel, lending his expertise to evaluate drivers from across the United States and Canada.

The district had plenty to celebrate as results were announced in the Type A (Small Bus) category, where Dickson County drivers swept the top two international spots:

• 1st Place International Champion: James Tienvold

• 2nd Place International Winner: Betsy Grove

Dr. Southerland praised the team’s skill, precision, and unwavering commitment to keeping children safe every day on their routes.

"To go up against the best drivers in North America and bring home top honors is a tremendous testament to the quality and safety of our transportation department."

Dickson County Schools thanks all of its bus drivers, mechanics, and transportation staff for their daily dedication to student safety!