2015 Course Listings Pg.1
2015 NCPTA Transposium
Course Descriptions
AC Troubleshooting Class (Thomas Buses) - You will learn the specific steps of troubleshooting an A/C system. Learn the basic steps in order and make your life easier. This course will ensure you know what is needed as far as preventative maintenance so your systems can operate trouble free. This is a four hour class. It will be a hands-on class with a bus, so dress accordingly. Presenter: Jamie McCaskill from Thomas Buses Attendees and classes are scheduled based on the beginning letter of your LEA. Class is a given a total of four times. A Thru C - D Thru J - L Thru P - R Thru Y
Active Shooter – What would you do if suddenly shots rang out in your office and you know there is a shooter in your building? Would you know to Run, Hide, or Fight. Are you prepared? Presenter: Carol Bowes
Advisory Board Meeting – NCPTA State Officers and Board Members discuss association business. New slate of officers will be announced. Committees will report. Facilitator: Carol Bowes, NCPTA President
APP-Garden–In order to cultivate a rich learning environment in your school for students, you need tools that yield efficiency and effectiveness. This class will cover several applications for managing school operations. Presenter: Stewart Cook
APP-Garden – Do you get asked to provide information that is difficult to report? Learn to easily generate impressive reports with Excel from your transportation information. This class will show you how to easily import your data into Excel and create, drag, and drop reports and charts with ease. Excellent Excel tips that every user can benefit from. Presenter: Stewart Cook
Ask the Field Guys-A presentation and question/answer session focusing on the findings from this year’s school bus inspections.Session includes a discussion of the top 10 defects. Facilitators: Keith Whitley, Randy Henson, Robert Taylor
Be Careful Where You Step – Avoiding Litigation Landmines – This session will cover potential employment litigation issues or landmines and methods for avoiding employment related charges. The presenter will be, Linda Van Noy-Stamp, a certified instructor for the American Management Association. She has an extensive background in training personnel from school districts, military and the private sector.
Best Practices for Getting Routesto Your Drivers –When routes are updated, how do you get the information to your drivers? This is an opportunity to share best practices from across the state and to find out what your neighbor is doing to address this issue. Presenter: Yolanda Trotter, Davidson County Schools
Bluebird – Caterpiller Updates and Electronic Technician–Hands on training environment with certified Bluebird personnel. Presenter: Joe Cogburn
Bluebird – Multiplex and Wiring – This ishands-on training for mechanics by certified Bluebird personnel. Presenter: Joe Cogburn Attendees and classes are scheduled based on the beginning letter of your LEA. Class is a given a total of two times. A ThruJ - L ThruY
**BSIP Advanced – This course is designed to allow usershands-on access to BSIP to learn about advanced methods for completing work tasks. It will also expand on additional BSIP capabilities and techniques for managing use of the system. Presenter: Kevin Harrison
BSIP Advanced Topics for Managerial Staff(Non-Lab)– This class will discuss managerial level decision making as it relates to BSIP data entry. The importance of paperwork and the data which is collected, as well as high level process design and organization. The class will present data sets from BSIPto introduce managers to the types of information available to them and present examples of incoming paperwork in its various forms. The class will not focus on how to retrieve the information and will be accessible to non-BSIP users. Presenter: Kevin Harrison
**BSIP Annual Physical Inventory – An introduction to the process of annual physical inventory and ways to make it run smoother. We will cover techniques in reporting, analysis, and finding errors, as well as advanced entry techniques and error correction. Presenter: Kevin Harrison
BSIP Inventory Management- Inventory management, ordering techniques, inventory receipt, stockroom setup and maintenance, service truck inventory, state contracts, DOT & VRMS code search, and physical inventory planning. DPI staff will discuss the new funding implications of inventory shortfalls.
Presenters: DPI Staff
**BSIP Materials Reporting – Users will be shown various reports available to display on stock on hand, stock purchase and use, as well as current pricing. This course is designed to expand on the knowledge from the introductory reporting class and will assume users understand reporting basics.
Presenter: Kevin Harrison
**BSIP Reporting Introduction – Users will be introduced to the reporting capabilities of BSIP. This training will include information on how reports function in BSIP, how to export data, and will introduce users to a few of the common BSIP reports. Presenter: Kevin Harrison
**BSIP Work Order and Cost Reporting – Users will be shown various reports available to display work order details, technician work hours, and general vehicle cost reporting. This course is designed to expand on the knowledge from the introductory reporting class and will assume users understand reporting basics. Presenter: Kevin Harrison
Budget Rating Simulator: Hands-On -BRING YOUR OWN LAPTOP to this session to get acquainted with the look and feel of the new budget rating simulator. Also learn the basics about drawing comparisons with other LEAs and how to determine the impact of policy changes in your LEA. You must have the simulator on your laptop to participate in this session. Presenter: Derek Graham, State Director of Transportation for NC
Bus Specification Committee Meeting – This committee consists of members from across the state representing mechanics, directors, and NCDPI staff. They will discuss the latest needs on school buses ordered throughout the state. Presenter: Derek Graham, State Director of Transportation for NC
C2 Training (Safe-T-Liner) – A four hour hands-on class for Thomas buses. Presenter: Vinny Rivera Attendees and classes are scheduled based on the beginning letter of your LEA. Class is a given a total of four times. A Thru C - D Thru J - L Thru P - R Thru Y
Communication Techniques – Do you know how to handle an angry caller? What are the phrases that calm callers? This course will give you valuable information regarding communication. Presenter: Allison Hancey, Beaufort County Schools
Diesel Equipment – Product Demo – Presenter: Steve Redmon
DPF/DEF Engine – Dash Warning Lights Overview and IC PocketMaxxIntroduction-Presenters: Mitch Hartness and Dave Sluder
DPI Transportation Services – Staff from DPI will provide updates to LEA staff on the happenings in the Legislature and any other information relevant for the school year. Presenter:Derek Graham, State Director of Transportation for NC
Educational Logistics -School bus routing software solutions for any size district!When it comes to finding school transportation software, you need one solution that emphasizes accuracy, efficiency, and safety. Education Logistics offers the best school bus routing software solutions, school bus GPS tracking systems, student tracking, fleet and driver management solutions, and more. Find out how EDULOG’s integrated software for school transportation can help you. Presenter: Wes Hogan
Engine Oils for School Bus Diesel Engines –A brief discussion on basic lubrication and formulation information. The class will discuss API CJ4, manufacturer’s specifications and the impact exhaust emissionregulations have on diesel engine operation and engine oil life. Future oils will be discussed. Presenter: Gabe Giordano
Epilepsy in the School Setting 101 – This is a workshop for school personnel at all levels with the goal of improving the care and understanding of students with epilepsy. The workshop will provide basic information on seizure disorders, including how to respond to seizures in the classroom, school yard or on a bus. Presenter: Patricia A. Gibson, MS, Associate Director of the Comprehensive Epilepsy Program at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center. She has conducted more than 870 lectures and workshops worldwide.
Ethical Decision Making – Doing the Right Thing –This session will cover the following: Differences BetweenMorals and Values, The Value of Ethical Behavior, Avoiding Ethical Dilemmas, and Approaches to Making Ethical Decisions. Presenter: Linda Van Noy-Stamp. She is a highly skilled designer, trainer and facilitator with over 20 years of experience in seminars, workshops and training modules. She has a Masters of Education in Instructional Technology. She holds professional certifications in the following: Prevention of Sexual Harassment, Leadership, Education, Development and Mediation.
Fuel Master / Syntech Systems–Product Demo – Presenter:Lyle Griffin
GEOREF Systems – This is a presentation of student transportation management software. Presenter: Dale McQuiggin
Google Docs –Has your school system migrated over to Google? There is an application in Gmail called Google Docs. Come to this session and learn the power of Google Docs and what it can do for your transportation operation. Presenter: John Warf
Homeless Students and Transportation – With the passage of the McKinney Vento Act, school systems are required to assist families in their time of need. With the downturn of our national economy, families are asking for more help now than ever. The NC Center for Homeless Education will present the facts to school transportation personnel with an open discussion to follow. Presenter: Lisa Phillips, NC State Coordinator for Homeless Education
How to Plan a Successful Back to School Meeting –This class will cover theWho, What, Where, When and the How of your back to school meetings. Presenter: Dianne Grumelot, Transportation Director, Cumberland County Schools
IC Brake Training – This is a four hour session with hands-on training. It will give mechanics technical knowledge of the complete air brake system to include Air Brake Troubleshooting, Air Brake Foundation, ABS, Maintenance, and Diagnostics. Presenter: Steve Kappus
Attendees and classes are scheduled based on the beginning letter of your LEA. Class is a given a total of four times. A Thru C - D Thru J - L Thru P - R Thru Y
Improvements on C2s Since 2008 Buses – This class will cover the changes C2s have gone through over a period of time. Presenter: Tom Schaaf
Inclement Weather – This session gives you an opportunity to discuss how other LEAs are dealing with inclement weather conditions and protocols. Presenter: David Twiddy, Transportation Director, Dare County Schools
ISB6.7 CM2350 Engine Diagnostics – Presenter: Fred Cox, Cummins
Attendees and classes are scheduled based on the beginning letter of your LEA. Class is a given a total of four times. A Thru C - D Thru J - L Thru P - R Thru Y
Leece-Neville – This two hour session will cover training on alternators and starters. Presenter: Frank Byrd
Liability Issues – School Bus Drivers and Monitors– This class will focus on requirements for transporting students with disabilities including proper use of wheelchair lifts and tie-down systems. Presenters: Steve Beachum and Bob Peters
Making the Case for School Bus Transportation – Why are kids better off riding the bus? Learn about resources, including several from the American School Bus Council, that show the safety benefits of school bus transportation. Presenter: Charlie Hood
Managing Conflict – It Begins With You–This session will cover the following: The Definition of Conflict, Three Major Types of Conflict, Five Major Styles of Conflict Resolution and A Conflict Resolution Tool. Presenter: Linda Van Noy-Stamp. She is a highly skilled designer, trainer and facilitator with over 20 years of experience in seminars, workshops and training modules. She has a Masters of Education in Instructional Technology. She holds Professional Certifications in the following: Prevention of Sexual Harassment, Leadership, Education, Development and Mediation.
MHC Truck – New Emission Systems 101 - Presenter: Todd Stewart
MINUTIAE– Taking Care of the Details -Take care of the minor details and the rest falls into place. Seeexamples of how missing small details caused real headaches or tragedies and learn how to avoid these kinds of outcomes. Presenter: Bob Peters
**NAPT 701 - Introduction to Leadership & Management - A four-hour workshop that defines the role of leadership for both experienced and novice managers. The course reviews different leadership models and explains how different models must be used with different individuals and in different circumstances. Learn strategies for developing your work force into a committed team that has the preparation to get the job done right and the creativity to find even better ways to function. Presenter: Bob Peters
National Issues and NASDPTS Update Session – We are excited to have with us,Charlie Hood, Executive Director of the National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation (NASDPTS), to discuss the latest initiatives from the National Congress on School Transportation, as well as, what’s taking place at the federal level in DC.
NC Best Bus Inspector Contest Written Exam –The contestants for the competition will take the first part of the contest, the written exam. The top 12 scores will go on to compete in the hands-on test.
Presenter: DPI Staff
NC Bus Inspector Class - In 2007 the State of NC passed legislation that eliminated the need to outfit school and activity buses with a DMV safety inspection annually. With the current DPI guidelines for inspecting buses it meets and in some areas exceeds the DMV inspection. To comply with the passed legislation, any person who completes the 30 day inspections will be required to pass an examination authorizedbyDMV and DPI. This classis for new inspectors. Presenter: DPI Staff
NC Bus Inspector Renewal Exam - This class is the examination for renewal. It is open to all individuals who have performed 30 day inspections on school buses and need to renew their certification. This is an open book exam. Presenter: Randy Henson Attendees and classes are scheduled based on the beginning letter of your LEA. Class is a given a total of two times. A ThruJ - L ThruY
NC Retirement Program - Start Planning Your Financial Future Today! - Hereyou'll find resources and tools to help you determine what actions to take to address your short-term and long-term financial and retirement planning needs. Presenter: NC State Treasurer’s Office Staff Member
PowerSchool and TIMS – This session will allow TIMS Users to share how they use these applications together. Presenter: Kim Fox, Iredell County Schools
Racor –This is a product demo class on filtration. Presenter: Jeff Winter
Reducing Tire Cost Through Effective Maintenance - Easy to find dollars that may be hidden in your tireprogram. Learn how to utilize Out-Service-Tire-Analysis and performancetracking to reduce tire cost. Presenter: Terry Lewis
Ricon – Mechanics Session -This class will cover new technology in wheelchair lifts and the option of a second belt on the lift. Also understanding the difference between 1000 lbs. lift capacity and 800 lbs. This class will be held twice, once for office staff and again for mechanics. Presenter: Maritza Valentin
Ricon – Supervisors and Managers Session -This class will cover new technology in wheelchair lifts and the option of a second belt on the lift. Also,covered - understanding the difference between 1000 lbs. lift capacity and 800 lbs. This class will be held twice, once for office staff and again for mechanics. Presenter: Maritza Valentin
Roundtable on Bus Body – Join other LEA staff and see how they are painting school and activity buses today. Body and chassis repairs and how staffs are finding the best ways to do them will also be discussed. Learn how the new EPA regulations are affecting paint booths and paint tools. Facilitator: Tom Decker, Cumberland County Schools
Roundtable on Bus Chassis–You will meet with fellow colleagues to discuss issues relating to our school bus chassis. This session will help identify issues. Attendees are encouraged to talk to vendors at the trade show and discuss questions and concerns. Facilitator: Bobby Jones, Wake County Schools
Roundtable for Cost Clerks –This open format session will allow people to converse about issues and solutions they face with BSIP and other areas of transportation. We all face the same challenges and sometimes hearing what a neighbor has accomplished just might help you as well. Facilitator: Cinda Lewis, Carteret County Schools
Roundtable for Directors - Come join fellow transportation administrators from around the state discuss current issues and resolutions. Perhaps someone has an idea that has paid off in their LEA that can benefit you. Facilitator: TBA
Roundtable for Mechanics – This session is designed for mechanics only. The session will provide an opportunity for fellow mechanics to openly share their challenges and successes. Facilitator: Ralph Trango, Wake County Schools