Pictured above, L-R: Kelly Collins, Director of Food Services; Dean Sheperd, incoming Director of Transportation; Steve Dayhuff, outgoing Director of Transportation.
Today marked the last Cabinet meeting for Director of Transportation, Steve Dayhuff. He is moving from the role that he's held for many years, overseeing the efficient and safe transportation of 4000 students every day.
Plainfield school buses travel 2000 miles each day, with about 40,000 miles of extra-curricular trips each year, bringing the total number of miles driven annually to more than 400,000 miles. Our transportation department is made up of 64 staff, including two mechanics who keep our buses in excellent condition. We are incredibly proud of our bus safety and inspection record.
While many people think of Plainfield as a growing-but-small town, Guilford Township (which governs school enrollment) covers 33 square miles. At the beginning of this school year, our bus fleet included 49 yellow buses and two (white) activity buses.
When the next school year begins, a familiar name will hold the title of Director of Transportation - Dean Sheperd. Dean has worked closely with Steve for many years, and we anticipate a very smooth transition.
In the meantime, you might see Steve at PCMS, where he looks forward to a more "normal" schedule (no more wee morning drives on county roads to check for ice, snow, flooding or fog) as he lends his skills to the custodial staff.
This is Teacher Appreciation Week, and School Nurse Appreciation Day. But we also say "Thank you, Steve," for everything you've given to our Transportation team through the years.