Celebrating School Bus Safety Week & School Bus Driver Appreciation Day!
This week, we’re celebrating two very special occasions: School Bus Safety Week (October 20–24, 2025) and School Bus Driver Appreciation Day (October 22, 2025)! 🎉
Every school day, thousands of school bus drivers across Ontario ensure that students arrive safely to and from school. They brave all kinds of weather, early mornings, and busy roads, all while keeping safety at the heart of everything they do. Their professionalism, patience, and care make them true everyday heroes on our roads.
School Bus Safety Week is a time to remind everyone – drivers, parents, students, and communities of the importance of school bus safety. Whether it’s stopping for flashing red lights, slowing down in school zones, or reinforcing safe behaviour when getting on and off the bus, we all have a part to play in keeping kids safe.
As we recognize School Bus Driver Appreciation Day, School Bus Ontario wants to take a moment to say thank you to the incredible men and women behind the wheel. Your dedication keeps our children safe, builds trust with families, and helps create a reliable, caring transportation system that Ontario can be proud of.
From everyone at School Bus Ontario, thank you for everything you do to make student transportation safe and successful. You are the heartbeat of our industry and the reason students start and end their school days with a smile.
2025 SBO Announcing the 2025 Driver Excellence Award Winners 🏆
The School Bus Ontario Driver Excellence Awards are out, and this year’s winners truly represent the best of the best! Each of these remarkable drivers exemplifies dedication, professionalism, and the true meaning of this year’s School Bus Safety Week theme: “Safety First; Safety Always.”This year’s honourees – Fatma Nahimana, Sara McMillen, Marcos Zuniga, and Simone Richards – represent the courage, compassion, and commitment that define the school bus industry. Their actions remind us that behind every safe ride is a driver who truly cares. 💛
Below are their inspiring stories:
Fatma Nahimana – First Student Canada
Fatma’s compassion is felt in every mile she drives. She safely transports a medically complex, nonverbal student who requires frequent care and attention, doing so with endless patience and empathy. Her kindness inspired her student to write and record a song in her honour – a moving reminder of the connections formed on the bus. A 5-Star driver and member of her company’s safety team, Fatma exemplifies professionalism, positivity, and heart.
Sara McMillen – First Student Canada
Sara’s quick thinking and calm leadership saved a child’s life. When a young student began choking on a marble, she safely pulled over and guided another student through life-saving action – preventing tragedy through courage and composure. Beyond that extraordinary moment, Sara teaches her riders about safety, teamwork, and respect. She also volunteers with Scouts Canada, extending her care for young people beyond the bus.
Marcos Zuniga – Voyago Transdev
Marcos’s compassion runs deep. When a special-needs student was too upset to leave the bus, he stayed with her through the night to ensure she felt safe and supported. His empathy and patience turned a difficult situation into one of trust and understanding. A former healthcare professional and lifelong blood donor, Marcos brings a unique sense of care and dedication to everything he does.
Simone Richards – Parkview Transit
Simone’s story is one of courage and vigilance. She has saved the lives of multiple students through her quick action – from stopping a child from stepping into the path of a car to rescuing a lost 5-year-old from a busy intersection. Her calm under pressure and commitment to student safety are unmatched. With a spotless record and years of trusted service, Simone truly is a hero behind the wheel.
Each day this week on our social media, we’ll be highlighting a winner of the 2025 SBO Driver Excellence Award 🏆, sharing their story, dedication, and impact on their communities. Don’t miss it! Follow along, engage, and help us celebrate these outstanding drivers who represent the best of the best.
A Heartfelt Thank You to All Our 2025 Nominees!