Weekly Hot News Podcast, April 18, 2022

April 18-22 is Volunteer Appreciation Week - a time for us to celebrate and elevate the important and integral work of volunteers in HSD. Family and community involvement is a significant factor in the success of schools. By becoming a volunteer, family and community members are providing an invaluable contribution to the education of our students. HSD appreciates the service of dedicated volunteers to assist staff by offering their time, encouragement, and meaningful contact with students - you are a key part of the team that strives to ensure that each one of our students succeeds. Want to become a volunteer? Learn more on our website at hsd.k12.or.us/volunteer. Our featured staff member is Transportation Mechanic David Vanderzee! David is the first person in the state of Oregon to become a Blue Bird Associate-Certified Technician. The Blue Bird Academy Technician Certification program was launched in 2017 and was originally focused on training for dealer technicians. The program was expanded to all customers with Blue Bird vehicles in their fleet in October of 2019. The certification process includes nine modules of instruction followed by a final exam of up to twelve hours, which is administered by a proctor. This is just one of many technician certifications our mechanics have access to for their continuing education as the mechanical needs of school buses continues to grow and expand. Great job and way to go, David! You make us Proud to be HSD! hsd.k12.or.us