Every child deserves a safe ride to school. Let's build it together.
Nearly 40 million illegal school bus passings occur every year, putting students at risk in communities across the country. The National School Bus Safety Summit brings together the leaders who can change that through collaboration, shared learning, and practical action.
Join government leaders, law enforcement, educators, advocates, and safety organizations as we work together to build a safer future for every student.
December 16-17, 2026
Two day national forum
Washington, D.C.
JW Marriott
500+
Cross sector safety leaders
JOIN US IN WASHINGTON
Be part of the conversation shaping the future of school bus safety
Join transportation and safety leaders from across the country for two days of meaningful conversations, expert perspectives, and collaborative working sessions focused on protecting students on and around the school bus.
Register to attend
Registration is free. We encourage you to spread the word and bring a friend or colleague. Each individual must register separately for safety and security purposes. Complete the form and we’ll confirm your spot and share hotel details.
By registering you agree to receive Summit updates. Seats confirmed on a rolling basis.
December 16-17, 2026
Full program across two days
JW Marriott, Washington, D.C.
Book your room for $185/night here.
Reception & National Awards
National Law Enforcement Museum
Dec 16, 5:30–7:30 PM (awards at 6 PM)
Who attends
Legislators, State Highway Safety Offices, school districts, law enforcement, advocates & safety organizations
TURNING ADVOCACY INTO ACTION
Our partners in safety
Improving school bus safety takes collaboration. The National School Bus Safety Summit proudly brings together leading safety organizations, government agencies, advocacy groups, and transportation leaders committed to reducing illegal school bus passings and protecting students in every community. Last year's summit featured participation from organizations including:
2026 Speakers & Panelists
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TORINE CREPPY
SAFE KIDS WORLDWIDE
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JONATHAN ADKINS
GOVERNORS HIGHWAY SAFETY ASSOCIATION
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KAROON MONFARED
BUSPATROL
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JUSTIN MEYERS
BUSPATROL
RICK BIRT
BUSPATROL
More speakers to be announced!
FROM THE 2025 SUMMIT
The National Action Plan for School Bus Safety
Developed by the Governors Highway Safety Association from the takeaways of the inaugural Summit, this is a first-of-its-kind, 50-state blueprint for reducing stop-arm violations — 69 specific, actionable recommendations that give every stakeholder a defined role.
50
State blueprint for action
69
Actionable recommendations
500+
Experts behind the plan
NOMINATE A SAFETY LEADER
Two National Awards
The National Road Safety Foundation is honoring two people whose commitment protects children around school buses, recognized on stage at the National School Bus Safety Summit.
Anyone can nominate. Colleagues, families, community members, and school and law enforcement leaders are all welcome to submit and self-nominations are encouraged. If you know someone who makes school bus safety their mission, put their name forward.
How to Nominate
1
Choose your nominee.
Pick a driver or officer who fits the award.
2
Tell their story.
Submit the nomination form.
3
Submit by October 31.
Winners are honored at the Summit.
National School Bus Driver of the Year
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For a school bus driver who leads with professionalism, care and commitment to student safety
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What We Look For
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A strong, consistent safety record behind the wheel
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Professionalism and care for every student, every day
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Leadership that raises the safety culture of their team
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Trusted partnership with families and the community
National School Bus Safety Law Enforcement Advocate of the Year
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For a law enforcement officer advancing school bus safety through enforcement, education, and partnership.
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What We Look For
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Visible, effective enforcement that protects children
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Public education that builds awareness in the community
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Strong collaboration with local transportation teams
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Measurable impact on local school bus safety culture
What the Winner of Each Award Receives
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A $1,000 gift presented directly to the winning officer, if allowed under local gift laws.
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​If not allowable, the $1,000 gift may be directed to the winner's law enforcement department, if allowed under local gift laws.
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If not allowable, this portion of the award would be forfeited.
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A travel stipend to attend and be recognized at the National School Bus Safety Summit not to exceed $1,500.
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​Expense receipts to be provided.
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