Looking Ahead — An Exciting Time for GAPT!

What a great couple of days in Cartersville! Our 2026 GAPT Fall Conference & Trade Show brought together pupil transportation professionals, industry partners, and friends from across Georgia for two days of outstanding professional development, meaningful conversations, and networking. My sincere thanks to our presenters, sponsors, vendor partners, and especially our members for making this another successful GAPT event.

During the conference, we had the opportunity to share several exciting announcements about the future of our association.

The Southeastern Pupil Transportation Academy (SPTA) continues to move forward as one of GAPT's most important professional development initiatives. We are building upon the Academy's structured 90-hour certification programs while expanding opportunities for classroom, regional, and online learning. Our goal remains to make quality professional education accessible, affordable, and meaningful for transportation professionals throughout Georgia. I am especially encouraged by the enthusiasm our members have shown for this program.

Looking ahead to 2027, we announced the dates and registration pricing for our two major conferences. The GAPT Fleet Conference & Trade Show will return to Cartersville, June 1–3, 2027, followed by the GAPT Summer Conference & Trade Show on Jekyll Island, June 14–17, 2027. Both conferences will offer Early Bird registration at $295 and regular registration at $350. The Summer Conference registration totals include the annual $100 GAPT membership renewal. Summer Conference registration opens November 2, 2026, and Fleet Conference registration opens January 11, 2027. We encourage everyone to plan ahead and take advantage of the Early Bird savings!

And perhaps one of our most exciting announcements was the return of the Georgia School Bus Roadeo in 2027! This longtime tradition will once again provide an opportunity to recognize the extraordinary skills, professionalism, and dedication of Georgia's school bus drivers and special transportation teams. We are planning the State Championship in conjunction with our June Fleet Conference in Cartersville, with regional qualifying opportunities being developed across Georgia. There is much work ahead, but I am excited about bringing this tradition back and celebrating the very best of our profession.

As I reflect on what we have accomplished and what lies ahead, I am reminded that GAPT's greatest strength has always been its people. Our members, volunteers, industry partners, and leadership continue to demonstrate an extraordinary commitment to improving pupil transportation throughout Georgia.

There is a tremendous amount of positive momentum within our association, and I truly believe 2027 will be an exciting year for GAPT!

Thank you for your continued support, your participation, and most importantly, the work you do every day to ensure the safe transportation of Georgia's students.

 The future of pupil transportation in Georgia is bright — and we’re just getting started!