Transportation perfect on bus inspection

Last night Business Manager Aron Rausch recognized the districts Transportation Department for recently receiving a perfect, 100 percent score on its Washington State Patrol bus inspection.

Rausch said although the department has an excellent record with inspections, this is the first time Walla Walla Public Schools scored perfect.

He gave special recognition to Transportation Mechanic Colter Mohney for his dedication, experience and attention to detail to help the department meet this outstanding standard.

Inspectors test lights, brakes, tires, safety equipment and more during this comprehensive inspection. No unsatisfactory marks were noted on the districts entire bus fleet.

"In three years as a bus inspector, this was the best inspection I have been involved in," Washington State Patrol Inspector Michael McKnight said in his recap report to the district.

Rausch also introduced new Transportation Director Steve Olson to school board members. Olson, who was the Director of Transportation for the Bellingham School District prior to coming to Walla Walla, said he is proud of the department and is excited about finding ways to further improve. Olson has extensive experience in school bus maintenance, operations and scheduling.

"I take maintenance and school bus safety very seriously," he said. "We always scored perfect in Bellingham and expect the same here."