Annual Awards

OPTA has been honoring drivers of exceptional skill, safety and leadership for decades, working with the Oregon Department of Education to award the "Big Wheel Award" since 1971, and recognizing the "Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year" since at least 1992. We also recognize technicians and mechanics for their abilities, and thank them for keeping us moving!

Safety exercises and other competitions are a popular way for our members to put their skills to the test in a safe and friendly environment. We encourage you to get involved!


Nominate and Recognize the Professional who has made a Difference…

 

It all begins with a Transportation Professional making a difference. This could be a driver, dispatcher, driver trainer, administrative assistant, router, mechanic/technician, or a director or supervisor, for example. One thing is true, recognition is not given enough to these professionals. Nominate your professional today!


OPTA Annual Awards Recipients 

We congratulate all award nominees and extend our congratulations to the recipients!

2024 State Award Recipients

Brian McDonald Buck Klemm Special Needs Transportation Award

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales Representing: First Student, Phoenix/Talent School District


Patrick Martin Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Peterson Trucks and IC Bus Sales Representing: North Clackamas School District


William “J.R.” Rice
Golden Wrench Technician/Mechanic Award

Sponsored by: Schetky NW
Representing: Reynolds School District


David Jorgenson
Ron Bryan OPTA Service Award

Sponsored by: OPTA
Representing: Salem-Keizer Public Schools


T.J. Crockett
Randy Schetky Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW
Representing: Salem-Keizer Public Schools


Mary Christine Carley
Marlan Rohlena School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales
Representing: First Student, Lincoln County School District


Kim Brown
Doug Flatt Administrative Support Award

Sponsored by: Silke Communications
Representing: North Clackamas School District


2023 State Award Recipients

Sandy van Baggen Buck Klemm Special Needs Transportation Award

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales Representing: Portland Public Schools


Pam Woodworth Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Peterson Trucks and IC Bus Sales Representing: Prairie City School District


Darin Dixon
Golden Wrench Technician/Mechanic Award

Sponsored by: Schetky NW
Representing: Sweet Home School District


Not Awarded
Ron Bryan OPTA Service Award

Sponsored by: OPTA
Representing: N/A


Tammy Rickman
Randy Schetky Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW
Representing: First Student, Gresham-Barlow School District


Keith Garrett
Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales
Representing: North Clackamas School District


Sarah Earls
Doug Flatt Administrative Support Award

Sponsored by: Silke Communications
Representing: Salem-Keizer Public Schools


2022 State Award Recipients

Shawna Scott Buck Klemm Special Needs Transportation Award

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales Representing: Redmond School District


Frank Hedrick Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Peterson Trucks and IC Bus Sales Representing: North Clackamas School District


Ted Woodcock
Golden Wrench Technician/Mechanic Award

Sponsored by: Schetky NW
Representing: Ashland School District


Teri Brady
Ron Bryan President’s Award

Sponsored by: OPTA
Representing: Portland Public Schools


Teresa Hooper
Randy Schetky Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW
Representing: Parkrose School District


Mary Richhart
Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales
Representing: Portland Public Schools


Debbi Miotke
Doug Flatt Administrative Support Award

Sponsored by: Silke Communications
Representing: North Clackamas School District


Not Awarded
Dennis Essary Leadership Award

Sponsored by: OPTA
Representing: N/A


2021 State Award Recipients

Eric Stein
Buck Klemm Special Needs Transportation Award

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales
Representing: Sherwood School District


George Johnson
Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Peterson Trucks and IC Bus Sales
Representing: Sherwood School District


Bob Dulmage
Golden Wrench Technician/Mechanic Award

Sponsored by: Schetky NW
Representing: North Clackamas School District


Kathy Calkins
Ron Bryan President’s Award

Sponsored by: OPTA
Representing: North Clackamas School District


Cindy Kirby
Randy Schetky Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW
Representing: Warrenton-Hammond School District


Brian Clarke
Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales
Representing: Salem-Keizer Public Schools


Carmela Thomas
Doug Flatt Administrative Support Award

Sponsored by: Silke Communications
Representing: Sherwood School District


Not Awarded
Dennis Essary Leadership Award

Sponsored by: OPTA
Representing: N/A

2020 State Award Recipients

Colleen Light
Buck Klemm Special Needs Transportation Award

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales
Representing: Tigard-Tualatin School District


Eddie Dixon
Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Peterson Trucks and IC Bus Sales
Representing: Salem-Keizer Public Schools


Mark McGahan
Golden Wrench Technician/Mechanic Award

Sponsored by: Schetky NW
Representing: Klamath Falls City Schools


Michael Shields
Ron Bryan President’s Award

Sponsored by: OPTA
Representing: Salem-Keizer Public Schools


Randy Schetky
Ron Bryan President’s Award

Sponsored by: OPTA
Representing: Schetky Bus & Van Sales


Mitchell Hamilton
Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW
Representing: Salem-Keizer Public Schools


Laura Salsky
Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales
Representing: North Clackamas School District


Jennifer Carmichael
Doug Flatt Administrative Support Award

Sponsored by: Silke Communications
Representing: North Clackamas School District


Not Awarded
Dennis Essary Leadership Award

Sponsored by: OPTA
Representing: N/A

2019 State Award Recipients

Cathy Rosenthal
Buck Klemm Special Needs Transportation Award

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales
Representing: Centennial School District


Ruth Blomdal
Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales
Representing: North Clackamas School District


Jaiver Davenport
Golden Wrench Technician/Mechanic Award

Sponsored by: Schetky NW
Representing: Sherwood School District


Sandi Miller
Ron Bryan (President’s Award)

Sponsored by: OPTA
Representing: Sherwood School District


Janet Alley
Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW
Representing: North Clackamas School District


Athena Kingery
Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales
Representing: Klamath Falls City Schools


Dan Chipman
Doug Flatt Administrative Support Award

Sponsored by: Silke Communications
Representing: Greater Albany Public Schools


Chris Ellison
Dennis Essary Leadership Award

Sponsored by: OPTA
Representing: Eugene School District

2018 State Award Recipients

Norma Sisson
Buck Klemm Special Needs Transportation Award

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales
Representing: Central Point School District


Lesa Motter
Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Brattain International Bus Sales
Representing: Grants Pass School District


James "Kimo" Sears
Golden Wrench Technician/Mechanic Award

Sponsored by: Schetky NW
Representing: Eugene School District


Kathy Houck
Ron Bryan President's Award

Sponsored by: OPTA
Representing: Reynolds School District


David Jorgenson
Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW
Representing: Salem-Keizer Public Schools


Hylah Moncy
Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales
Representing: Lebanon School District


Lindsay Heard
Doug Flatt Administrative Support Award

Sponsored by: Mid-Columbia Bus Co.
Representing: Grants Pass School District


Not Awarded
Dennis Essary Leadership Award

Sponsored by: Michael Martin, Executive Director NAPT Representing: N/A

2017 State Award Recipients

Sue Caldwell
Buck Klemm (Special Needs Transportation Award)

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales
Representing: Sherwood School District


Mona Dent
Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Brattain International Bus Sales
Representing: Eugene School District


Christopher Fitch
Golden Wrench (Technician/Mechanic Award)

Sponsored by: Schetky NW
Representing: Eugene School District


Charlie McAlister
Ron Bryan (President’s Award)

Sponsored by: OPTA
Representing: Centennial School District


Diane Clinkscales
Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by:Schetky NW
Representing: Neighbor Impact Head Start


Casey Jebens
Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales
Representing: Sherwood School District


Michele Fletchall
Doug Flatt (Administrative Support Award)

Sponsored by: Mid-Columbia Bus Co.
Representing: Salem-Keizer Public Schools


David Farley
Dennis Essary (Leadership Award)

Sponsored by: Michael Martin, Executive Director NAPT
Representing: Salem-Keizer Public Schools

2016 State Award Recipients

Stephanie Malherbe Buck Klemm (Special Needs Transportation Award)

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales Representing: Salem-Keizer Public Schools


Connie Lutz

Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Brattain International Bus Sales

Representing: North Clackamas School District


Nick Scott

Golden Wrench (Technician/Mechanic Award)

Sponsored by: Schetky NW

Representing: Salem-Keizer Public Schools


None

Ron Bryan (President’s Award)

Sponsored by: OPTA

Representing:


Wilbur Starr

Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW

Representing: Santiam Christian School


Stacey Delgado

Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: Ashland School District


None

Doug Flatt (Administrative Support Award)

Sponsored by: Mid-Columbia Bus Co.


None

Dennis Essary (Leadership Award)

Sponsored by: Michael Martin, Executive Director NAPT

2015 State Award Recipients

Lori Dau

Buck Klemm (Special Needs Transportation Award)

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: David Douglas School District


Teresa Schreiber

Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Brattain International Bus Sales

Representing: North Clackamas School District


David Graham

Golden Wrench (Technician/Mechanic Award)

Sponsored by: Schetky NW

Representing: Redmond School District


None

Ron Bryan (President’s Award)

Sponsored by: OPTA


Michelle Rainville

Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW

Representing: Redmond School District


Deborah Maskal

Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: Greater Albany Public Schools


Denise Richardson

Doug Flatt (Administrative Support Award)

Sponsored by: Mid-Columbia Bus Co.

Representing: Astoria School District


Jane Langlois

Dennis Essary (Leadership Award)

Sponsored by: Michael Martin, Executive Director NAPT

Representing: Beaverton School District

2014 State Award Recipients

Terry Sanders

Buck Klemm (Special Needs Transportation Award)

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: Salem-Keizer School District


George Morfin

Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Brattain International Bus Sales

Representing: Beaverton School District


Troy Hageman

Golden Wrench (Technician/Mechanic Award)

Sponsored by: Schetky NW

Representing: Eugene School District


Denice Blake

Ron Bryan (President’s Award)

Sponsored by: OPTA

Representing: Bend-LaPine School District


Lynnette O’Dell

Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW

Representing: North Clackamas School District


Cindy Merrill

Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: Reynolds School District


Cheryl Crosgrove

Doug Flatt (Administrative Support Award)

Sponsored by: Mid-Columbia Bus Co.

Representing: North Clackamas School District


Chris Ellison

Dennis Essary (Leadership Award)

Sponsored by: Michael Martin, Executive Director NAPT

Representing: Eugene School District

2013 State Award Recipients

Berta Poland

Buck Klemm (Special Needs Transportation Award)

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: David Douglas School District


Ruth Park

Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Brattain International Bus Sales

Representing: Beaverton School District


Gary Rowe

Golden Wrench (Technician/Mechanic Award)

Sponsored by: OPTA

Representing: David Douglas School District


Tim O'Connell

Ron Bryan (President’s Award)

Sponsored by: OPTA

Representing: Bend-LaPine School District


Kathy Houck

Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW

Representing: Reynolds School District


Cindy Moran

Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: Greater Albany Public Schools


Kris Freeman

Doug Flatt (Administrative Support Award)

Sponsored by: Mid-Columbia Bus Co.

Representing: Salem-Keizer Public Schools


Michael Shields

Dennis Essary (Leadership Award)

Sponsored by: Michael Martin, Executive Director NAPT

Representing: Salem-Keizer Public Schools

2012 State Award Recipients

Keith Wright

Buck Klemm (Special Needs Transportation Award

Sponsored by: )Western Bus Sales

Representing: Portland Public Schools


Sandra Aldama

Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Brattain International Bus Sales

Representing: Greater Albany Public Schools


Ken Dorsey

Golden Wrench (Technician/Mechanic Award)

Sponsored by: OPTA

Representing: Springfield Public Schools


Michael Shields

Ron Bryan (President’s Award)

Sponsored by: OPTA

Representing: Salem-Keizer SD


Jane Langlois

Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW

Representing: Beaverton SD


Mark Sexton

Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: North Clackamas SD


Dawn Parsell
Teresa Derochowski

Doug Flatt (Administrative Support Award)

Sponsored by: Mid-Columbia Bus Co.

Representing: North Clackamas SD, Salem-Keizer SD

2011 State Award Recipients

Kathryn Mundt

Buck Klemm (Special Needs Transportation Award)

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: Greater Albany Public Schools


Orren Atkins

Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Brattain International Bus Sales

Representing: Reynolds SD


David Farley

Golden Wrench (Technician/Mechanic Award)

Sponsored by: OPTA

Representing: Salem-Keizer SD


L.D. Ellison

Ron Bryan (President’s Award)

Sponsored by: OPTA

Representing: Sweet Home SD


Michael Shields

Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW

Representing: Salem-Keizer SD


David Asula

Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: Reynolds SD

2010 State Award Recipients

None

Buck Klemm (Special Needs Transportation Award)

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales


Cathy Schellenberg

Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Brattain International Bus Sales

Representing: North Clackamas SD


Dave Voiles

Golden Wrench (Technician/Mechanic Award)

Sponsored by: OPTA

Representing: Bend-Lapine SD


None

Ron Bryan (President’s Award)

Sponsored by: OPTA


Chris Ellison

Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW

Representing: Greater Albany Public Schools


Kathy Calkins

Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: David Douglas SD

2009 State Award Recipients

Tami Jay

Buck Klemm (Special Needs Transportation Award)

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: Greater Albany Public Schools


Fred Taylor

Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Pacific Power Products (formerly Pacific Detroit Diesel)

Representing: Hillsboro SD


Michael Jacobs

Golden Wrench (Technician/Mechanic Award)

Sponsored by: Ott’s Friction Supply

Representing: Greater Albany Public Schools


Deborah Lincoln

Ron Bryan (President’s Award)

Sponsored by: Cummins NW

Representing: ODE


Robert “Skip” Boice

Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW

Representing: Salem-Keizer SD


Carl Salstrom

Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: Salem-Keizer SD

2008 State Award Recipients

Leah Stiles

Buck Klemm (Special Needs Transportation Award)

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: Mid-Co – Lincoln County SD


Diane Brown

Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Pacific Power Products (formerly Pacific Detroit Diesel)

Representing: David Douglas SD


Tim Lawrence

Golden Wrench (Technician/Mechanic Award)

Sponsored by: Ott’s Friction Supply

Representing: Beaverton SD


None

Ron Bryan (President’s Award)

Sponsored by: Cummins NW


Michael Burton

Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW

Representing: Salem-Keizer SD


Lucy Weiser

Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: Beaverton SD

2007 State Award Recipients

Sybil Malone

Buck Klemm (Special Needs Transportation Award)

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: Greater Albany Public Schools


Patty Trost

Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Pacific Power Products (formerly Pacific Detroit Diesel)

Representing: Mid-Co – Burnt River


Kevin Potter

Golden Wrench (Technician/Mechanic Award)

Sponsored by: Ott’s Friction Supply

Representing: Mid-Co – Condon


Matt Kutcher

Ron Bryan (President’s Award)

Sponsored by:Cummins NW

Representing: Crook County


Rita Armstrong

Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW

Representing: Mid-Co – Gervais


Mary Condon

Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: North Clackamas SD

2006 State Award Recipients

Debbie Wright

Buck Klemm (Special Needs Transportation Award)

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: Beaverton SD


Jackie

Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Pacific Power Products (formerly Pacific Detroit Diesel)

Representing: Baker SD


Van Dyke

Golden Wrench (Technician/Mechanic Award)

Sponsored by: Ott's Friction Supply

Representing: Beaverton SD


Bill Flatt

Ron Bryan (President’s Award)

Sponsored by: Cummins NW

Representing: Mid-Columbia Bus


Marty Hopper

Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW

Representing: Redmond SD


Janet Alley

Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: North Clackamas SD

2005 State Award Recipients

Betty Templison

Buck Klemm (Special Needs Transportation Award)

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: Mid-Co


Carol Dill

Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Pacific Detroit Diesel

Representing: Crook County


David Dunlap

Golden Wrench (Technician/Mechanic Award)

Sponsored by: Ott’s Friction Supply

Representing: Redmond


None

Ron Bryan (President’s Award)

Sponsored by: Cummins NW


Cindy Nicholson

Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW

Representing: Mid-Co – Hermiston


Jean Frazey

Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: Beaverton

2004 State Award Recipients

Sue Coffin

Buck Klemm (Special Needs Transportation Award)

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: Willamette ESD


Judy Wagoner

Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Pacific Detroit Diesel

Representing: Mid-Co – Cove


Jim Davidson

Golden Wrench (Technician/Mechanic Award)

Sponsored by: Ott’s Friction Supply

Representing: Mid-Co – Elgin


Doug Flatt

Ron Bryan (President’s Award)

Sponsored by: Cummins NW

Representing: Mid-Columbia Bus


Ronald “Bud” Botts

Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW

Representing: Joseph SD


Sherren Wargnier

Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: Salem-Keizer SD

2003 State Award Recipients

Leanne Schwarzin

Buck Klemm (Special Needs Transportation Award)

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: Sherwood SD


Darlene Gescher

Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Pacific Detroit Diesel

Representing: Stayton Laidlaw4


Bryant Cheam (Manager)

Golden Wrench (Technician/Mechanic Award)

Sponsored by: Ott’s Friction Supply

Representing: Portland Laidlaw


None

Ron Bryan (President’s Award)

Sponsored by: Springfield Radio Communications, Inc


Lynda Newell

Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW

Representing: Parkrose SD


Sharon Wilde

Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: Sherwood SD

2002 State Award Recipients

Mary Jones

Buck Klemm (Special Needs Transportation Award)

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: Central SD


Al Morris

Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Pacific Detroit Diesel

Representing: Mid-Co, Pendleton


Tom Miller

Golden Wrench (Technician/Mechanic Award)

Sponsored by: Ott's Friction Supply

Representing: Oregon City SD


None

Ron Bryan (President’s Award)

Sponsored by: Springfield Radio Communications, Inc


Arlita Sams

Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW

Representing: Mid-Co — Pendleton


Jeffrey Gibson

Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: North Clackamas SD

2001 State Award Recipients

Sandy Darnell

Buck Klemm (Special Needs Transportation Award)

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: Reynolds


Karen Robinson

Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Pacific Detroit Diesel

Representing: Scio


Mark Van Riper

Golden Wrench (Technician/Mechanic Award)

Sponsored by: Ott's Friction Supply

Representing: Reynolds


John Fairchild

Ron Bryan (President’s Award)

Sponsored by: Springfield Radio Communications, Inc

Representing: Salem-Keizer


Barbara Kirwan

Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW

Representing: First Student — Canby


Sandy Dubendorf

Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: David Douglas

2000 State Award Recipients

Donelle Cramer

Buck Klemm (Special Needs Transportation Award)

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: Salem-Keizer


Anita Cardwell

Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Pacific Detroit Diesel

Representing: Mid-Co, Pendleton


Charles "Kirk" Stansbery

Golden Wrench (Technician/Mechanic Award)

Sponsored by: Ott’s Friction Supply

Representing: Laidlaw — Medford


Jane Frey

Ron Bryan (President’s Award)

Sponsored by: Springfield Radio Communications, Inc

Representing: Oregon City


Wilda “Willie” Birchell

Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW

Representing: Laidlaw— Dallas


Margaret Robbins

Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: Laidlaw — Jefferson

1999 State Award Recipients

Marti Ficke & Carol Howard

Buck Klemm (Special Needs Transportation Award)

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: Springfield


Charlotte Bigelow

Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Pacific Detroit Diesel

Representing: Jackson County


Ken Bates

Golden Wrench (Technician/Mechanic Award)

Sponsored by: Ott’s Friction Supply


Lake Oswego PD

Ron Bryan (President’s Award)

Sponsored by: Springfield Radio Communications, Inc


Mac Pennington

Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW

Representing: Lake Oswego


Tim Iba

Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: North Clackamas

1998 State Award Recipients

Marlys Bauer

Buck Klemm (Special Needs Transportation Award)

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales


Betty Jean Roan

Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Pacific Detroit Diesel

Representing: Salem-Keizer


Edward Johnson

Golden Wrench (Technician/Mechanic Award)

Sponsored by: Ott’s Friction Supply

Representing: Laidlaw – Coos Bay


Coral Semle

Ron Bryan (President’s Award)

Sponsored by: Springfield Radio Communications, Inc


Vonda Schultz

Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW


Mike Blagg

Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

1997 State Award Recipients

Margy McCrary

Buck Klemm (Special Needs Transportation Award

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales


JoAnn Arens

Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Pacific Detroit Diesel


Garry Grimm

Golden Wrench (Technician/Mechanic Award)

Sponsored by: Ott's Friction Supply

Representing: Centennial (?)


Don Molinsky

Ron Bryan (President’s Award)

Sponsored by: Springfield Radio Communications, Inc


Jane Frey

Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW

Representing: Oregon City


Lynette O'Dell

Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Representing: Hillsboro

1996 State Award Recipients

Charlotte Earl

Buck Klemm (Special Needs Transportation Award)

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales


Mary Shelton

Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Pacific Detroit Diesel


Jesse Martinez

Golden Wrench (Technician/Mechanic Award)

Sponsored by: Ott’s Friction Supply

Representing: (?) -- Woodburn


Ron Bryan

Ron Bryan (President’s Award)

Sponsored by: Springfield Radio Communications, Inc


Ron Bryan

Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW


Eileen WainWright

Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

1995 State Award Recipients

None

Buck Klemm (Special Needs Transportation Award)

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales


None

Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Pacific Detroit Diesel


None

Golden Wrench (Technician/Mechanic Award)

Sponsored by: Ott’s Friction Supply


None

Ron Bryan (President’s Award)

Sponsored by: Springfield Radio Communications, Inc


None

Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW


Barbara Niles & Roberta Warner

Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

1994 State Award Recipients

Annette Reisbirk

Buck Klemm (Special Needs Transportation Award)

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales


Carolyn Bingham

Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Pacific Detroit Diesel


Dan M. Ford

Golden Wrench (Technician/Mechanic Award)

Sponsored by: Ott’s Friction Supply

Representing: Laidlaw – Grants Pass (?)


None

Ron Bryan (President’s Award)

Sponsored by: Springfield Radio Communications, Inc


Eva Baylis

Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW


Dorothy Evens

Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

1993 State Award Recipients

Barbara Tighe

Buck Klemm (Special Needs Transportation Award)

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales


None

Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Pacific Detroit Diesel


Wayne Muessig

Golden Wrench (Technician/Mechanic Award)

Sponsored by: Ott’s Friction Supply

Representing: Beaverton


None

Ron Bryan (President’s Award)

Sponsored by: Springfield Radio Communications, Inc


Don Molinsky

Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW


None

Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

1992 State Award Recipients

None

Buck Klemm (Special Needs Transportation Award)

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales


None

Oregon School Bus Driver of the Year

Sponsored by: Pacific Detroit Diesel


Chuck Beck

Golden Wrench (Technician/Mechanic Award)

Sponsored by: Ott’s Friction Supply

Representing: Gresham


None

Ron Bryan (President’s Award)

Sponsored by: Springfield Radio Communications, Inc


None

Oregon Transportation Supervisor of the Year

Sponsored by: Schetky NW


None

Oregon School Bus Driver Trainer of the Year

Sponsored by: Western Bus Sales

Oregon Department of Education “Big Wheel Award”

We congratulate all award nominees and extend our congratulations to the recipients of the ODE “Big Wheel Award” Winners!

ODE "Big Wheel Award" Winners

1971
Norm Chris

District: (“Katty Wampus”)

1972
Fred Wilcox

District: Phoenix – Talent School District

1973
Bud Gage

District: Molalla School District

1974
Wayne Meussig

District: Beaverton School District

1975
Darold Miller

District: Springfield School District

1976
Richard George

District: Coquille School District

1977
Willis Grey

District: Crook County School District

1978
Howard Woolsey

District: Eagle Point School District

1979
Quinten Hewson

District: Catlin Gable School District

1980
Don Moorehead

District: Dorsey Bus Company – Bethel School District

1981
Larry Igou

District: Central School District

1982
Bob Pellico

District: Eugene School District

1983
Don Allison

District: Hillsboro School District

1984
Doug Flatt

District: Pendleton Bus Company

1985
Mary Beerli

District: Eagle Point School District

1986
John Shafer

District: Banks School District

1987
Dolores Backus

District: Reynolds School District

1988
Jack Sperr
74-87
Oregon Department of Education State Director (Retired)

1989
Junaita Luke

District: Beaverton School District

1990
Alice Denton

District: David Douglas School District

1991
Lane Allen

District: Prineville School District

1992
Pan VanArsdale

District: Mayflower Bus Company

1993
Susan Hendrickson

District: School Bus Services

1994
Don Hatt

District: Ontario School District

1995
Craig Pruitt

District: Salem - Keizer School District

1996
Ron Bryan

District: Estacada School District

1997
George Ehmer

District: Milton - Freewater School District

1998
John Jolly

District: Oregon Department of Education

1999
John Fairchild

District: Salem - Keizer School District

2000
Carey Smith

District: Grants Pass School District

2001
Brian Mullins

District: Beaverton School District

2002
Tom Saddler

District: Central School District

2003
Jane Frey

District: Oregon City School District

2004
Ivan Imig

District: Salem - Keizer School District

2005
Tom Lovell

District: Cascade School District

2006
Sherren Wargnier

District: Salem - Keizer School District

2007
Marlan Rohlena

District: Western Bus Sales

2008
Jeff Gibson

District: North Clackamas School District

2009
Marty Hopper

District: Redmond School District

2010
Bill Mattes

District: Estacada School District

2011
Kathy Houck

District: Reynolds School District

2012
Buckley Plummer

District: Ontario School District

2013
Susan Hunt

District: Oregon Child Development Coalition

2014
Chris Ellison

District: Eugene School District

2015
Keith Wright

District: Portland Public Schools

2016
Teresa Massey

District: Oregon Department of Education Consultant

2017
Bill Cohen

District: Oregon DMV

2018
Don Lamb

District: Springfield School District

2019
William Swift

District: Bethel School District

2020
Janice Briggs

District: Oregon Department of Education

2021
Tim Iba

District: Oregon Child Development Coalition

2022
Noland Huntington

District: Siuslaw School District

2023
Stacey Cheshire

District: Ashland School District

2024
Mary Christine Carley

District: First Student, Lincoln County School District